Contracts Manager

FTA Contracts Manager

Blue Bird (NASDAQ: BLBD) is recognized as a technology leader and innovator of school buses since its founding in 1927. Our dedicated team members design, engineer and manufacture school buses with a singular focus on safety, reliability, and durability. School buses carry the most precious cargo in the world – 25 million children twice a day – making them the most trusted mode of student transportation.

The company is the proven leader in low- and zero-emission school buses with more than 25,000 propane, natural gas, and electric powered buses sold. Blue Bird is transforming the student transportation industry through cleaner energy solutions.

The FTA Contracts Manager is responsible for managing opportunities and contracts related to the public transit market funded by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), from identifying requests for proposals (RFPs) through contract execution. The individual ensures alignment between client requirements, contractual commitments, the proposed solution, internal capabilities, and Micro Bird's business objectives.

This strategic role oversees RFI/RFQ/RFP activities, contract governance, and performance monitoring, while ensuring that targeted contracts comply with applicable Buy America Act (BAA) requirements. The individual serves as the central point of contact between internal sales, the Drummondville teams, the external sales team in Georgia, project managers in Plattsburgh, and support functions, including legal, finance, operations, engineering, and compliance.

Essential duties and responsibilities include:

• Managing opportunities and bids
• Contract governance
• Coordination of contract execution
• Cross-functional leadership and collaboration
• Performance, governance, and continuous improvement
• On-site presence and representation

Knowledge, skills and abilities for success include:

• Significant experience in a manufacturing, industrial, or regulated environment
• Strong understanding of RFI/RFQ/RFP processes
• Proven experience in team management and cross-functional coordination
• Bilingualism in French and English is required
• Knowledge of FTA/BAA environments and a project management certification are a plus
• High level of attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and meticulous record-keeping
• Energy, initiative, and a strong ability to drive projects forward with determination and sound judgment
• Excellent communication skills in French and English
• Willingness to travel regularly between Drummondville and Plattsburgh, as well as for certain client visits or industry events

Basic education and experience required include:

• Bachelor's degree in business administration, engineering, law, project management, or a related field
• At least 10 years of experience in roles related to complex bidding processes, contract management, industrial project management, or business governance
• All candidates must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States and will be required to provide proof of employment eligibility at the time of hire

We value:

• Ability to anticipate and understand customer needs and provide guidance
• Excellent interpersonal and customer relationship skills to handle difficult and sensitive matters
• Strong project management skills
• Ability to influence stakeholders
• Effective communication and ability to communicate complex details in a clear manner
• Flexible work spaces and work hours to help you unleash the best you
• Working in a collaborative team and balancing the needs of individual stakeholders while delivering corporate objectives

Includes:

• Continued professional development
• Benefits including medical, dental and vision insurance, 14 paid holidays, vacation time and 401k matching

Work conditions:

• Office environment and production environment
• Must work in a manufacturing environment with exposure to heat, cold and noise
• Fast-paced production area with moving objects and sheet metal
• Occasional periods of standing or sitting for extended periods of time
• You must wear appropriate PPE when and where required
• Frequent weeks working 40+ hours
• Frequent communication with people throughout the day

Blue Bird® is an equal opportunity employer and makes employment decisions on the basis of merit. We strive to have the best available talent in every job based on the Knowledge,

Skills and Abilities

each person brings. Blue Bird is committed to compliance with all applicable laws providing equal employment opportunities. This commitment applies to all persons involved in Company operations and prohibits unlawful discrimination in all forms.

All candidates must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States and will be required to provide proof of employment eligibility at the time of hire.