Job Description: Government Contract Specialist
Position Overview:
The Government Contract Specialist is responsible for managing and overseeing government contracts for an organization operating within the realm of political science and government. This role requires in-depth knowledge of government procurement regulations, policies, and procedures, as well as exceptional analytical and negotiation skills. The Government Contract Specialist will collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders to ensure compliance with contract terms and conditions, while maximizing efficiency and value for the organization.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Contract Management:
- Review, analyze, and interpret government contract requirements, terms, and conditions.
- Ensure compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and organizational policies during the contract lifecycle.
- Develop and maintain contract templates, including modifications, amendments, and extensions.
- Monitor contract performance and identify areas for improvement or risk mitigation.
- Collaborate with internal stakeholders to resolve contract-related issues and disputes.
2. Procurement Process:
- Assist in the development and implementation of procurement strategies and plans.
- Conduct market research to identify potential suppliers and maintain a thorough understanding of market trends.
- Prepare and issue requests for proposals (RFPs), requests for quotes (RFQs), and invitations to bid (ITBs).
- Evaluate bids and proposals received, considering technical, financial, and legal aspects.
- Facilitate negotiations and contract award decisions.
3. Contract Administration:
- Ensure accurate and timely contract documentation, including contract summaries, reports, and correspondence.
- Track and manage contract deliverables, milestones, and deadlines.
- Monitor and report on contract performance against established metrics and key performance indicators (KPIs).
- Maintain contract records and databases, ensuring accuracy and confidentiality.
- Provide guidance and support to project teams and relevant stakeholders regarding contract administration matters.
4. Compliance and Risk Management:
- Stay updated on changes in government procurement regulations, policies, and guidelines.
- Identify potential risks and develop strategies to mitigate them.
- Conduct periodic contract audits to ensure compliance with contractual obligations.
- Collaborate with legal counsel to resolve contract-related legal disputes if necessary.
- Support internal and external audits related to contract management activities.
Required Skills and Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in Political Science, Public Administration, Business Administration, or a related field. Master's degree preferred.
- Minimum of 3 years of experience in government contract management or a similar role.
- Strong knowledge of government procurement regulations, including Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) and applicable state/local regulations.
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to assess complex contractual issues and propose effective solutions.
- Proficient in contract review and negotiation, with attention to detail and accuracy.
- Demonstrated ability to effectively manage multiple contracts simultaneously, ensuring compliance and meeting deadlines.
- Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Proficiency in using contract management software and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Strong organizational and time management abilities, with the capability to prioritize tasks effectively.
- Proactive and self-motivated with a strong sense of accountability and professionalism.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion.
Note: This job description is intended to convey essential information about the scope and requirements of the Government Contract Specialist role. It is not exhaustive and may be subject to change or modification based on organizational needs and evolving industry standards.