Contracts Specialist.7082100

Performs moderately complex professional technical and administrative work for purchasing activities including purchasing and contract administration. Responsible for procurement of construction, supplies and professional services conducted in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws, ordinances, rules, and regulations.

Responsible for procuring or coordinating the procurement of architectural and engineering services, construction, and related supplies and services required by various departments in accordance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, policies and procedures.

Prepares highly technical and complex specifications, contracts, and solicitation documents, including all related research and value analysis:

• Identifies and notifies potential sources.

• Analyzes current procurement activities and recommends improvements through more efficient procurement methods, e-procurement, privatization, quantity discounts, standardization, value analysis or cooperative purchasing.

• Performs research for market sources and suppliers to locate and ensure most cost effective and competitive pricing for the purchase of supplies and services.

• Engages in procurement planning with client departments. Routinely meets and communicates with client departments to identify and provide high quality service to meet client service delivery requirements on a timely basis. Provides accurate, complete, and up-to-date information in a courteous, efficient, and timely manner.

Conducts pre-bid and pre-proposal conferences. Coordinates and supervises activities of evaluation committees. Recommends lowest responsive, responsible bidder on IFB's, most advantageous offer on RFP's and most qualified for architects/engineers.

Edits requisitions and confer with departments regarding requirements, specifications, quantity, quality, and delivery. Recommends alternatives that would result in greater value.

Confers with consultants, contractors, and suppliers to acquaint them with procurement policies and procedures and to obtain information on required products and services. Negotiates with consultants and contractors regarding specifications, scope of work, prices, terms, and conditions.

Performs contract administration, including liaison between suppliers and departments, compliance with contract terms and conditions, grant requirements, negotiation of contract amendments, extensions and change orders. Analyzes cost and price data from vendors.

Performs contract audits when required. Reviews and executes contracts, purchase orders, change orders and other documents within delegated authority.

Maintains the integrity of the public procurement process.
Communicates purchasing policies and procedures to all personnel and interprets policies and procedures.

Maintains individual workload statistics. Prepares and maintains accurate records and documentation on all solicitations, responses, purchases, contracts, correspondence, and related follow-up. Provides guidance and assistance to other employees, as required.
Performs related duties as required.

Education, Experience and Training:
Education and experience equivalent to a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in a job related field of study. Two (2) years of professional work related experience in purchasing, contracts administration and negotiation.

Required Certifications: Certified Professional Public Buyer (CPPB) or equivalent certifications, or the ability to obtain the CPPB, or equivalent certifications, within five (5) years of hire.

Special Requirements/Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
Skilled in the use of standard software applications. Knowledge of Texas State procurement laws. Ability to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing, and establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, departments, and the general public. Knowledge and preparation of Request for Proposals (RFPs) and Invitation for Bids (IFBs) from initiation to negotiated contract execution. Must possess research, analytical, business, and technical writing skills. Must be proficient in the operation of personal computers. Must possess a valid Texas Drivers License and good driving record. Will be required to provide a copy of 10-year driving history. Must maintain a good driving record and remain in compliance with Article II, Subdivision II of Chapter 90 of the Dallas County Code. Must pass a background check.

Physical/Environmental Requirements:
Standard office environment. Must be able to visit various off-site locations.

An extensive pre-employment background investigation will be conducted on all applicants who have been offered a position with Dallas County. The hiring process involves successful completion of each step. The steps include: Criminal History Review, Traffic Violations Record, Review of Personal History Statement and Documents, Physical Examination, and Background Investigation.
Dallas County is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.
AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, National Service Alumni volunteers, and persons with a criminal background are encouraged to apply.