Contract Specialist

Procurement Specialist Duties

Follows established procedures to procure off-the-shelf materials, which are available from numerous commercial sources, and are easily identified by common names for which standard price lists are available. Responds to customer needs to procure repetitive items or services for which specifications have become standardized and where established competitive markets and price competition exists. Reviews requisitions to determine if proper specifications or purchase descriptions are included in solicitation documents.

Suppliers are generally available, however; performs search of the market or uses sole source suppliers as required or necessary to complete procurement actions. Selects clauses to cover special conditions, such as inspection and acceptance, marking and packaging, quantity variation, price differential, or transportation costs. Contacts technical personnel to resolve questions of applicability of specifications, classifications of terms, or acceptance of substitute items.

Meets with commercial representatives to discuss procurement needs, quality of items or services, current market prices, or delivery schedules. Ensures completed actions are in compliance with regulatory requirements and responsive to customer needs.

Prepares Request for Quotation (RFQ), Invitation for Bid (IFB) or Request for Proposal (RFP) ensuring that technical descriptions and appropriate provisions and clauses are included. Develops source lists of responsible contractors, coordinating with the small business specialist. Uses primarily firm fixed-price, time and materials, indefinite delivery, or similar contracts using standard clauses. Reviews quotations, bids or proposals for compliance with solicitation, price reasonableness, adequacy of competition, and probability of meeting requirements.

Evaluates prospective contract price utilizing basic price analysis techniques by research and review of available historical and precedent data, manufacturer's catalogs, current labor rates, comparison of other competitive quotes/offers received and/or standard industrial cost and price data. On negotiated procurements, assignments are designed to increase the incumbent's knowledge, skills, and abilities. In such situations, following specific guidance, contacts offerors or contractors to conduct simple contract negotiations such as the negotiation of prices for routine items or services, to request earlier delivery date or closer conformance to specifications, or similar matters.

Assists in monitoring contract performance, contract closeout, and if needed, contract termination. Monitors contract performance through telephone conversations, correspondence, site visits, inspections, analysis of contractor metrics, for compliance with performance standards, applicable laws, delivery schedules, payment provisions, inspections, progress reports, and other requirements stated in the contract. Meets with contractors and Government Officials to clarify issues on contractual requirements, such as billing procedures, material submittals, and socioeconomic clauses.

Participates in negotiations of extension of delivery schedules, price adjustments, modifications to the contract, and similar agreements when precedents are well established, and the contractor's and government's bargaining position are close.

Provides advice and assistance to others relating to contracting work and prepares correspondence. Provides advice and assistance to installation technical personnel and sales representatives whenever information is needed, or issues need to be resolved. Establishes working relationships with program and contractor management personnel. Prepares letters, memoranda, documents, or reports that support contractual actions or recommendations.

May assist the Government Purchase Card (GPC) Agency/Organization Program Coordinator (AOPC) for the local Contracting Office. Provides assistance and training for billing/approving officials and cardholders participating in the program. Monitors purchasing activity to ensure program compliance.

May be assigned to serve as a System Administrator. Provides…