Contract Specialist II/III

Adams County; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 64,000 - 111,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading county government is seeking qualified candidates for Contract Specialist II and III positions. These roles require a strong understanding of procurement laws and effective communication skills. The ideal candidates will have relevant degrees and experience in government purchasing. Responsibilities include managing bids, negotiating contracts, and ensuring compliance with procurement policies. Competitive salary ranges are offered based on experience level.

Qualifications

• Four years of professional purchasing experience, preferably in government.
• Five years of progressive purchasing and contracting experience, including three in a governmental setting.

Responsibilities

• Purchase a variety of technical and non-technical items.
• Prepare bid specifications and ensure open competition.
• Negotiate bid prices and terms for contracts.

Skills

Effective communication

Leadership

Time management

Organizational skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in purchasing

Bachelor's degree in accounting

Bachelor's degree in business

Bachelor's degree in public administration

Tools

JD Edwards Enterprise One

Job description

The Department has elected to consider a range of experience for this vacancy. A candidates' qualifications will determine the level at which they are hired.

Contract Specialist II:

This position is intended for those individuals who have an intermediate level understanding of public procurement requirements, general business law, local, state, and federal laws, the Uniform Commercial Codes, and general commercial laws. The expectation is that this position must be able to make independent decisions and apply procurement and accounting principles to a variety of medium risk technical and non-technical procurements.

Contract Specialist III:

This position is intended for those individuals who have an advanced understanding of public procurement requirements, general business law, local, state, and federal laws, the Uniform Commercial Codes, and general commercial laws. The primary focus is on contracts of higher complexity and risk, including but not limited to construction contracts, professional service agreements, and maintenance and service agreements.

Salary Ranges:

• Contract Specialist II: $64,229.13 - $93,132.23
• Contract Specialist III: $76,497.92 - $110,921.98

Responsibilities:

1. Under intermittent to minimal supervision, purchase a variety of technical and non-technical items; procure professional services, equipment, materials, and supplies.
2. Prepare bid specifications, assist and review specifications set by Offices/Departments; ensure open competition and equal opportunity to all bidders.
3. Edit and rewrite purchase requisitions to accurately reflect descriptions, quantities, pricing, and special conditions.
4. Contact suppliers and vendors for product information, prices, and availability.
5. Negotiate bid prices, terms, and conditions for contracts, leases, and rental agreements.
6. Review and educate employees on purchasing policies and procedures.
7. Analyze bids, quotations, and requests for proposals.
8. Act as an agent for the County at bid openings; schedule bid and proposal openings; draft purchase recommendations for the Board of County Commissioners.
9. Coordinate compliance issues with the user Office/Department and County Attorney staff.
10. Assist in establishing evaluation teams and criteria for bids and proposals.
11. Prepare and administer contractual agreements for procurement of goods and services.
12. Participate in Cooperative Bid Programs.
13. Dispose of obsolete equipment and determine disposal methods.
14. Prepare Notices of Award, Notices to Proceed, and Denial Letters.
15. Promote good customer service and open communication with all County Offices and Departments.
16. Participate in employee training on JD Edwards Enterprise One Software.
17. Coordinate bulk purchases across departments to optimize volume discounts.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Intermediate (Advanced for CSIII) understanding of procurement requirements and related laws.
• Knowledge of general business law and accounting practices.
• Proficiency in purchasing procedures and procurement policies.
• Effective communication skills, both oral and written.
• Ability to foster positive working relationships.
• Leadership and team coordination skills.
• Excellent time management and organizational skills.

Minimum Qualifications:

Contract Specialist II:

• Four years of professional purchasing experience, preferably in government.
• Bachelor's degree in purchasing, accounting, business, public administration, or related field, or equivalent experience.
• Training in JD Edwards Enterprise One Purchasing system required within the first year.
• Background check required.

Contract Specialist III:

• Five years of progressive purchasing and contracting experience, including three in a governmental setting.
• Bachelor's degree in relevant field; additional experience may substitute for education.
• Certification in CPPB, CPPO, CPM, CPP, or CCPM required within 12 months.
• Training in JD Edwards Enterprise One Purchasing system required.
• Background check required.