The Santa Clarita Community College District/College of the Canyons is seeking a full-time Assistant Buyer in the Business Services department.  

Who We Are 

Strong and consistent leadership is essential to the long-term success of the Santa Clarita Community District (“District”). The District has been fortunate to operate under the leadership of Dr. Dianne G. Van Hook for the last 33 years, the longest seated CEO in the California Community College System. Her visionary leadership has made the District one of the leading, most innovative and widely respected community colleges in the system. The District’s administrative team is also known for its longevity at the District and expertise in the community college system which contributes to the overall success of the District. 

The District is committed to achieving educational equity for all students. As presented in our District Strategic Plan, which focuses on Access, Engagement, and Success, “Equity, inclusion, and diversity are not goals in themselves, but ideologies embedded in all actions and planning across all departments and functions of our college and its two campuses.” These areas of focus demonstrate a resolve to focus on student success and confirm that we are at the forefront of change with integrated planning efforts that both evolve and anticipate the needs of our students. We provide students with a rich and dynamic learning experience that embraces differences — fostering healthy inclusion through inquiry, shared dialogue and reflection to ensure that we promote a sense of community, collegiality and cooperation. When you join our team at the District, you can expect to be part of an inclusive, creative, flexible, innovative and equity-focused community that engages students, each other, and the community in scholarly inquiry, creative partnerships, and the application of knowledge and success.

  

The College and the District

College of the Canyons is part of the District and is designated as a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI), enrolling approximately 32,000 students each academic year. College of the Canyons has a diverse student population that reflects our focus on enhancing the educational attainment and economic well-being of the community we proudly serve. We value the ability to serve students from a broad range of cultural heritages, socioeconomic backgrounds, genders, abilities, and orientations.  Detailed information about our student population, including data related to student success, can be found on the College of Canyons Office of Institutional Research, Planning and Institutional Effectiveness (IRPIE) website. Additionally, College of the Canyons, was recently honored as a 2021 Bellwether College Consortium award winner, was honored in 2018 and 2019 with the Champion of Higher Education award, was ranked #1 in Los Angeles County during 2019 as the best two-year college for adult learners, and is rated #1 in Los Angeles County for completion rates by college-prepared students. It is distinguished as one of the top transfer institutions in Los Angeles County. 

The Business Services department provides support, direction and oversight for all District financial resources to ensure fiscal compliance, proper accounting and successful audits and develop financial resources to maintain and improve programs and services consistent with institutional commitments (mission, goals, and objectives) and in alignment with enrollment management plans. The District has a history of excellent audits and balanced budgets and is held in high regard for its commitment to providing excellent customer service to the campus community while ensuring compliance with Federal, State and local regulations. In addition to the departments of Fiscal, Payroll, Contracts/Procurement/Risk Management, Grants and Budget, Business Services is responsible for bookstore and food services contracts and operations. Business Services also provides accounting support to the COC Foundation and District construction activities. Participation on local and Statewide boards and committees as well as budget and funding formula advocacy supports the District in the achievement of its goals to provide high quality instruction to its students.

 

Who We Want 

We value the ability to serve students from a broad range of cultural heritages, socioeconomic backgrounds, genders, abilities, and orientations. Therefore, we prioritize applicants who demonstrate they understand the benefits diversity brings to a professional educational community. The successful candidate must be an equity-minded individual committed to collaborating with faculty, classified staff, administration, students and community partners who share our commitment to closing equity gaps. 

We seek employees that value mentorship and working in a collegial, collaborative environment, who are conscientious risk takers and transformational leaders guided by a commitment to helping all students achieve their educational goals.  The Contracts, Procurement, and Risk Management Services department is looking for a proactive, highly motived individual who has excellent critical thinking, problem-solving and communication skills and is able to work effectively in a fast-paced environment.

"BIG PICTURE" RESPONSIBILITY:

Under the supervision of the Executive Director, Contracts, Procurement and Risk Management Services, and work direction of Senior Buyer and Buyer, performs administrative and technical support duties in support of the execution of the complete purchasing cycle. Performs a variety of buying duties related to purchasing materials, equipment, supplies, and services; assists with processing purchase orders, returned items, surplus property, and other tasks using established purchasing procedures and regulations, and performs other related duties as assigned.

SALARY PLACEMENT

Salary placement will be on Range 25 of Classified Represented Salary Schedule B ($4,262 - $7,230 per month). Initial salary step placement for new employees is customarily at step 1, 2, or 3 ($4,262 / $4,521 / $4,789 per month) of this 20-step salary range. 

Probationary period for new Classified employees is one year. Work year is 12 calendar months. The normal workweek for this position is 40 hours. Paid holiday, discretionary, and sick time are provided. Ten vacation days accrue during the first year of employment. A regular work schedule will be assigned, with the ability to occasionally work a flexible schedule as needed with supervisor approval.

DISTRICT CLASSIFIED EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

Full-time employees are provided with a diversified program that includes medical, dental and vision insurance including dependent coverage, disability and life insurance as well as Section 125 options.  These benefits commence on the first of the month following date of hire. Professional development opportunities are provided to all employees.  Educational incentive is available to eligible Classified Represented and Confidential employees.  

RETIREMENT: Classified employees contribute to the Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS), a defined benefit retirement plan through the State of California.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Position requires sitting and viewing a computer monitor for extended periods of time plus frequent periods of standing and walking, which may include climbing staircases; dexterity of hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard and related equipment; stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, twisting/turning, bending at the waist, and reaching in awkward positions; frequently exerting 10 to 20 pounds of force to life, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects; hearing and speaking to communicate and provide information to others; vision to read printed material and computer monitor; handling and working with various materials and objects; intermittent exposure to impatient, angry and/or verbally aggressive individuals; and travel from site-to-site.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

• Successful completion of background fingerprint clearance, pre-employment physical examination (disabilities not related to the physical job will not affect the application process) and TB screening. 
• Proof of eligibility to work in the United States and signing of loyalty oath per government codes 3100-3109.
• Meeting applicable eligibility requirements under CalPERS or CalSTRS if you are a current or former member.
• Board of Trustees approval.
• Official, sealed transcripts are required upon offer of employment.
• Position is contingent upon funding and is subject to change.

OTHER POSITION-SPECIFIC CONDITIONS 

Due to department specific workload demands, the department has established an internal vacation use policy. 

Use of vacation and discretionary days will be limited each year from April 1^st through June 30^th. Use of vacation and discretionary days may also be limited during fiscal audit periods. Prior approval of vacation and discretionary time is required. The normal hours of work for this 12-month Classified Represented position will be 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Mondays through Fridays.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

 

Santa Clarita Community College District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

The Santa Clarita Community College District is committed to employing qualified employees who are dedicated to student learning and success. The Board recognizes that diversity in the academic environment fosters awareness, promotes mutual understanding and respect, and provides suitable role models for all students.  The Board is committed to hiring and staff development processes that support the goals of equal opportunity and diversity, and provide consideration for all qualified candidates. The District does not unlawfully discriminate in providing educational or employment opportunities to any person on the basis of race, color, religion, religious creed (including religious dress and grooming practices), national origin, ancestry, citizenship, physical or mental disability, medical condition (including cancer and genetic characteristics), genetic information, marital status, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), gender, gender identity, gender expression, age (40 years and over), sexual orientation, veteran and/or military status, protected medical leaves (requesting or approved for leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act or the California Family Rights Act), domestic violence victim status, political affiliation, and any other status protected by state or federal law  or on the basis of these perceived characteristics, or based on association with a person or group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics. 

Applicants who have disabilities may request that accommodations be made in order to complete the selection process by contacting the Human Resources office directly at (661) 362-3427.

ABOUT THE DISTRICT

Innovative. Collaborative. Entrepreneurial. These characteristics not only define College of the Canyons, they are embodied by the faculty, staff and administrators who make this college unique among the 116 California Community Colleges.

Established in 1969, College of the Canyons is among the fastest-growing colleges in California and the nation. It is widely recognized as a model community college for enhancing student access, success and equity. Its completion rates rank among the highest in the state. The college has established a well-deserved reputation for bolstering economic development and offering innovative career technical education responsive to industry needs.

Guided by visionary leadership, the college serves a 367-square-mile area of northern Los Angeles County that includes the dynamic, growing Santa Clarita Valley. A steady influx of new residents and businesses creates a spirit of possibilities that inspires the college to be flexible, creative and attuned to the community’s evolving needs. The growing diversity of the community is mirrored by the college, which qualifies as a Latino-serving institution.

The college’s influence in the community is best illustrated by the dozens of collaborative partnerships it has forged with local school districts, government entities and service organizations. Examples include the Performing Arts Center’s K-12 Arts Education Outreach initiative, which allows thousands of children to experience the arts each year, and Academy of the Canyons, an early/middle college high school at the Valencia campus that is ranked among the top 10 percent of high schools in the nation.

With campuses in Valencia and Canyon Country, the college offers 92 associate degree programs, including 23 associate degree for transfer (AD-T) options, as well as 71 certificate programs. Classes are offered during traditional fall and spring semesters, as well as shorter, intensive summer and winter sessions. Additional educational opportunities exist at the University Center, whose four-year colleges and universities offer approximately 30 bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree programs, as well certificate and credential programs.

Because of the college’s commitment to meeting the needs of the community, local voters have approved two bond measures valued at more than $240 million since 2001. The college also secures substantial funds from the state and millions of dollars in grants each year that allow new, cutting-edge programs to be developed and facilities built to accommodate them.

Given its commitment to growth and innovation, College of the Canyons sets a new standard for what a college can achieve. It is a vital cultural, educational and economic force in the region. Join us to discover unexpected possibilities, the freedom to innovate and an opportunity to shape the future.

APPLICATION AND SELECTION PROCESS:

Applicants are encouraged to complete their applications online at https://www.canyons.edu/administration/humanresources/. If you require assistance, please call the Human Resources office at (661)362-3427 or for the hearing impaired TTY/TDD Line at (661)362-5178.  Applicants may check the status of their application online and may expect to be notified within approximately 4 - 5 weeks following the Review Date as to the status of their application.

All application materials must be uploaded online or received in the Human Resources office by the end of the day on the Review Date in order to assure consideration for this position. Postmark is not acceptable for this purpose. Separate application materials must be submitted for each position applied for. Materials submitted become property of the District and will not be returned, copied, or considered for other openings.  The Human Resources office is located in the University Center, Suite #360 at 26455 Rockwell Canyon Road, Santa Clarita, CA, 91355.

Your application is not complete until the following required materials have been uploaded online or received by the Human Resources office:

• Online District CLASSIFIED Application.
• Detailed resume, which includes month/year dates of employment and descriptions of responsibilities at each employer.
• Letter of interest (cover letter). In your letter, please address your qualifications and experience as they pertain to the job duties and the abilities section of this announcement.
• Copies of complete and legible college transcripts clearly indicating all college units earned and any degree awarded. You can submit unofficial copies of transcripts for application purposes. Copies of diplomas are not acceptable in lieu of college transcripts. Official, sealed transcripts are required upon offer of employment. Please see our website for the requirements for evaluation of transcripts from foreign colleges or universities.
• Confidential Recruitment Source Information (voluntary survey). This is voluntary and is a part of the online applicant profile, separate from the application.
• Supplemental Questionnaire. Please answer the following questions as part of your application packet.

 

1. Do you possess education equivalent to an Associate’s degree (60 semester units) or higher from an accredited institution? If yes, list your degree(s) and please provide a legible copy of your college/university transcript(s) in your online application packet. Copies of diplomas are not acceptable in lieu of college transcripts. If not, and you are using additional years of work experience in lieu of semester units, please clearly indicate how you meet the minimum educational requirement through this additional work experience.
2. Please describe your purchasing and/or office administration experience. Please include employer name(s), your position title(s), dates of employment, full-time or part-time status (% of time or number of hours worked per week), and your roles and responsibilities. Please provide your total years of full-time equivalent experience in this field.
3. Please briefly describe your experience with purchasing processes, use of electronic purchasing software (such as Datatel/Colleague, Banner, etc.), purchase orders, and other accounting-related documents.
4. Please describe your experience providing clerical/administrative support in the workplace. Describe how your work supported your manager or department.
5. Please describe your customer service skills and experience.
6. Do you have educational institution experience? If yes, describe the positions you held.
7. Why do you want to work in this staff position at College of the Canyons?

 

• Letters of reference are optional.

 Please note:

• Skills evaluation of candidates for interview may be required.
• Travel and relocation expenses are the responsibility of the applicant.
• Hiring committees review all complete, qualified application packets. Possession of the minimum qualifications does not guarantee an interview.
• “Experience” generally refers to relevant paid experience. In some instances, unpaid experience may be counted as experience towards meeting the minimum qualifications or requirements for the position only if it entailed responsibilities substantially similar to those of relevant paid positions in the field.  It is the applicant’s responsibility to provide sufficient information and details to the Human Resources office at the time of submission of their application packet.  Details should include the organization, contact name and contact information, start and end dates, hours per week, and a list of relevant unpaid/volunteer duties or responsibilities performed.  Not all unpaid experience may qualify.  Upon offer of employment, an applicant will be required to obtain written verification(s) of any relevant unpaid/volunteer experience.
• Current COC employees who are applying for this position: Please be aware that materials from your personnel file are not included as part of the application file; therefore, please provide the same requested application materials as any other applicant.
• Applicants are encouraged to apply online. If you need assistance with the application process, contact:

Human Resources Office

(661) 362-3427

TTY/TDD (661) 362-5178 or visit our website at

https://www.canyons.edu/administration/humanresources/

 

It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure that all application materials are fully and correctly submitted. All materials submitted are for this position only and become the property of the District.  Materials will not be returned, copied or considered for other openings. Resumes may not be submitted in lieu of the official application form.

The College is expecting to conduct initial interviews between the weeks of August 16, 2021 and August 23, 2021 and conduct final interviews between the weeks of August 23, 2021 and August 30, 2021. This is an estimated timeline, and is subject to change.

Position is offered contingent on funding. We reserve the right to withdraw, extend the filing date, reopen, or delay filling this position. Recruitment may continue until the position is filled. This recruitment may be used for future vacancies.