San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS)

Manager of Procurement

San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS)  •  $112k - $159k/yr  •  San Diego, CA (Onsite)  •  3 days ago
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Job Description

The Manager of Procurement plans, directs, manages and oversees the execution of the overall Procurement strategies. Responsibilities include strategic procurement planning, leading and mentoring the Assistant Procurement Managers and roles that directly report to this position. Additionally, this role will work alongside the Assistant Managers to develop and update federal, state and local regulatory guidelines under the MTS Procurement Policy and Procedures and ensure full compliance through system and internal control.

Application Review: Priority will be given to applications received by April 24, 2026 The position will remain open until filled.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES:

Essential Functions

Leadership & Staff Management

  • Provides overall leadership and management of the direct reports, including operational, financial, administrative, and technical responsibilities.
  • Supervises and develops a team that includes two Assistant Managers and assigned staff; provides coaching, mentoring, performance management, and succession planning.
  • Delegates responsibilities appropriately while maintaining accountability for departmental performance.
  • Assists in decisions regarding hiring, discipline, and promotion of subordinate staff; directs and evaluates subordinate staff.

Policy Implementation & Compliance

  • Implements and maintains procurement policies and procedures under the direction of the Director of Supply Chain & Operations.
  • Ensures compliance with federal, state, and organizational regulations to ensure fair and open competition.
  • Maintains current knowledge of FTA Procurement guidelines and California Public Utilities Code (CPUC) requirements related to procurement.
  • Provides guidance and recommendations to the Director of Supply Chain & Operations.
  • Serves as an agency-wide resource and liaison to other departments.
  • Represents the organization during external audits and regulatory reviews.

Vendor & Supplier Management

  • Oversees staff supplier selection, vendor performance management, and contract dispute resolution, as necessary.

Procurement Operations

  • Reviews and approves Purchase Orders within authorized signature authority.

Contract Administration & Legal Oversight

  • Ensures contracts comply with regulations and organizational requirements.
  • Reviews, evaluates, and approves solicitation documents, conformed agreements, and amendments for technical and compliance sufficiency.
  • Collaborates with Legal and Finance departments on contract terms and conditions.

Financial Management

  • Monitors departmental expenditure and manages budgets within assigned authority.
  • Controls and authorizes departmental expenses in accordance with established guidelines.
  • Provides input to the Director of Supply Chain & Operations for annual financial planning and forecasting.

Market Analysis

  • Researches and analyzes market trends, supplier performance, and trade conditions to inform procurement strategies.
  • Monitors industry developments and emerging technologies to improve procurement efficiency.

Risk Management & Audit Readiness

  • Identifies and mitigates risks related to procurement processes, contracts, and supplier performance.
  • Ensures departmental readiness for internal and external audits.
  • Maintains processes that safeguard compliance with federal, state, and organizational standards.

Stakeholder Engagement & Collaboration

  • Partners with internal stakeholders (Operations, Finance, Legal, Executive Leadership) to align procurement activities with organizational needs.
  • Provides consultative services and guidance to leadership on procurement strategies, contracting policies, and best practices.

Duties May Include, But Are Not Limited To, The Following:

  • Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge of or ability to learn MTS policies and regulations; extensive knowledge of public transit procurement and expertise across state, local and federal regulations; ability to read, understand and apply MTS policies, regulations and union labor contracts; ability to write letters, memoranda and reports using clear, concise and grammatically correct English; ability to speak clearly, distinctly and effectively in person-to-person or small group situations using tact and diplomacy; ability to coordinate and initiate actions necessary to implement decisions and delegate responsibilities to appropriate personnel; ability to establish and maintain priorities to complete assignments by deadlines without detailed instructions; skill in verifying the accuracy and completeness of forms and reports; knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel and the ability to learn and use other software that MTS might have or acquire; skill in effectively supervising subordinates in order to achieve company goals; exceptional verbal and written communication skills; exemplary attention to detail and very strong critical analysis skills; exceptional organizational, prioritization and multi-tasking skills; exceptional interpersonal skills and understanding of customer relationship management; strong working knowledge of federal and state public transit procurement statutes and regulations; excellent knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles including the requirements of governmental financial reporting, as well as federal and state grant administration; ability to consistently exhibit a positive attitude and leadership qualities while fostering positive relationships across internal and external stakeholders; ability to be creative and flexible while working within regulatory guidelines to ensure optimal outcomes in challenging situations; ability to implement process improvements and new technologies successfully within organizations.

Physical Requirements

The successful candidate must be able to fulfill the physical demands of the job such as walking, stooping, sitting, bending, reaching for overhead files and occasional lifting (must be able to lift up to 15 pounds). Must be able to operate a motor vehicle and perform tasks involving manual dexterity, such as use of a computer and 10-key. Work will at times require more than 8 hours per day or an irregular work week to perform the essential duties of the position. Duties will be performed primarily in an office type environment and may require travel to external locations and agencies.

Experience/Education/Certificates/Licenses

Possess a bachelor’s degree in business administration, supply chain management, or related field. A minimum of seven years of procurement experience, including at least three years of supervisory or managerial experience in a public procurement environment, is preferred. Must possess and maintain a valid California Driver License or be able to utilize alternative transportation when needed to perform job-related essential functions.

GENERAL:

Must satisfactorily pass all applicable post-offer examinations, including but not limited to a pre-employment physical conducted by an independent medical provider, a comprehensive criminal background and credit check, and, when applicable, a pre-employment drug test as required by MTS Board Policy 35.

SALARY GRADE:

Salary offers are based on factors such as the knowledge, skills, abilities, and relevant experience of the successful candidate, while taking into account internal equity, budget constraints, and other market factors. This position is in salary grade #13, which has a minimum of $112,095 and a maximum of $159,175. Salary grades are typically adjusted annually to ensure they remain market competitive.

DISCLAIMER: The above-described job elements are intended to indicate the general nature and levels of work being performed by employees assigned to the job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of duties, responsibilities and skills required of employees so classified. Management retains the discretion to add to or change the duties of the position at any time.

EEO is The Law - Equal Opportunity Employer Minorities/Women/Protected Veterans/Disabled

MTS is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer with an ongoing commitment to treat all people, including customers, co-workers and the public at large, with dignity and respect. As a public transportation agency, MTS is committed to providing an inclusive workplace that reflects the diverse communities in which we work and live.

MTS supports and promotes an environment that is free of discrimination and harassment. MTS recruits, hires, trains and promotes individuals without regard to race, such as hair texture and hairstyles), color, religion, ancestry, national origin, age (40 years or older), sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, medical condition (cured or rehabilitated cancer), physical disability, mental disability, reproductive health decision-making, genetic information (including family medical history), military or veteran status, or any other protected class.

MTS encourages veterans, military spouses and people from different backgrounds to apply for open positions for which they are interested. Additionally, MTS employees are encouraged to refer qualified candidates from all backgrounds and age groups. At MTS, we are committed to a fair and equitable workplace where everyone is a respected and valued member of the team.

San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS)

About San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS)

As the largest provider of public transportation in San Diego County, the Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) is committed to providing exceptional service to the people of the San Diego region.

Every year more than 95 million people ride MTS buses and Trolleys. We have more than 80 fixed-route bus lines and 54 miles of Trolley service. Our fleet of compressed natural gas buses and electric Trolleys allow MTS to be one of the greenest companies in San Diego. MTS recently started testing a zero-emission bus program, with a commitment to go all electric by 2040. Additionally, as our region continues to grow, there will be a greater dependence on public transportation to help achieve mobility goals.

MTS is one of the most modern and dynamic public transportation systems in North America and we would love for you to help us achieve our goals! Every position at MTS contributes to the ultimate goal of improving access, service and the environment through public transit.

Industry
Transportation & Logistics
Company Size
501-1,000 employees
Headquarters
San Diego
Year Founded
1886
Website
sdmts.com
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