Contract Specialist

Shift Time: 8:30am - 5:00pm,  Lunch Duration: 30 Minutes

Salary: $87,000.00 - $92,000.00

Job Summary:

The Contracts Specialist is responsible for supporting the Contract Management Team and Contract Administrators in managing contracts throughout their lifecycle, ensuring compliance with federal regulations and internal policies. This entry-level position plays an essential role in learning contract processes, assisting with documentation, and enhancing stakeholder relationships. The ideal candidate will have some experience in government contracting, an understanding of Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR), and a willingness to work within cross-functional teams. The position requires strong interpersonal skills, compassion, and respect for persons with disabilities.

Essential Functions:

• Assist in drafting, negotiating, executing, and administering contracts under supervision, ensuring compliance with terms and conditions.
• Support coordination and management of Requests for Proposals (RFPs) and Requests for Quotes (RFQs) with government customers and subcontractors.
• Collaborate with the Contract Management Team and Contract Administrators to prepare estimates and pricing data in accordance with Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) and government Requests for Proposals (RFPs).
• Help manage and submit financial reports, including Bi-Annual, Monthly, and Quarterly Employment data, Subcontracting Reports, and required reports in SAM.gov.
• Assist in assessing data from various sources to gain insights into Ability One and Government policy changes.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements within contract management and reporting.
• Support changes in subcontractor requirements, scope of work, and costs under supervision.
• Aid in management of all requirements in SAM.gov and FSS Schedule maintenance and updates.
• Ensure that contract documentation is complete and assist in performing contract file audits.
• Coordinate with Contracting Officers and Senior Contracts Specialists regarding communication of contract requirements to customers and senior leadership team members.
• Coordinate communications with SourceAmerica and State Use Program Agency.
• Stay informed on updates to government regulatory policies and industry trends.
• Participate in training and mentorship opportunities to grow skills and understanding of contract management.
• Establish and maintain positive relationships with customers, co-workers, and public vendors.
• Ensure timely submission for all required reports and work products.
• Maintain knowledge of current WDR, CBA, and FAR requirements for compliance.
• Maintain confidentiality in all work-related matters.
• Utilize due diligence in all contracting matters.
• Assure a high level of quality in the performance of all work.
• Comply with all Agency policies and procedures and follow contract specifications.
• Attend meetings and training as required.
• Comply with building and security requirements.
• Assume other duties, responsibilities, and special projects as needed.

Physical Abilities Needed to Meet Work Demands:

• Ability to sit for long periods of time
• Ability to stand and walk occasionally
• Ability to see details on the computer using color vision, close vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus

Job Competencies Needed for Success on the Job:                      

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with others
• Ability to be a self-starter and to be self-motivated
• Ability to work under tight deadlines in a capable, confident, composed manner
• Ability to maintain confidentiality
• Ability to communicate effectively with employees and government staff
• Ability to make decisions and solve problems
• Ability to plan, implement, organize, and prioritize
• Ability to be flexible and dedicated to quality and customer service
• Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously
• Ability to react immediately to emergency situations
• Ability to analyze data and recommend corrective action
• Ability to read, write, and speak (communicate and relate information) English
• Ability to use technology for completion of specified job duties
• Ability to manipulate numbers
• Ability to maintain and submit reports, logs, and other paperwork in a timely manner
• Ability to understand and apply technical written material
• Ability to complete tasks in a timely manner with numerous interruptions
• Ability to work a flexible schedule as required
• Ability to attend and participate in training and work-related meetings
• Ability to demonstrate integrity and ethical standards in job performance
• Ability to deal with others in a positive, enthusiastic, respectful, and courteous manner
• Ability to provide guidance, direction, and technical support
• Ability to comply with all building, security, and company policies and procedures

Other requirements: 

• Position is eligible for telework at the discretion of Chimes DC leadership, consistent with performance, and as captured in an approved telework plan.

• Valid driver’s license from state of residence and ability to drive
• Acceptable driving record as determined by Agency’s insurance carrier and by Chimes DC policies and procedures

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in administration, finance, economics or in a related field
• Knowledge and understanding of commercial and Federal contract structures (FFP, CostPlus, IDIQ, etc.), regulations (FAR and DFARS), and practices
• In depth working knowledge of the SCA
• Strong familiarity with the Davis Bacon Act and labor union collective bargaining agreements
• Excellent analytical and written/verbal communication skills and strong attention to detail

Experience:

• A minimum of one (1) year of experience in a nonprofit, federal consulting, or similar industry
• Expertise in Excel and Word
• Strong business skills in problem solving, time management and leadership
•  Proven experience with successful negotiations and customer presentations
• Ability to prepare a business case/evaluation for opportunities and projects
•  Experiences with strategic planning and creating results driven tactical plans is a plus 

Notes:                        

• At the discretion of the Personnel Officer, additional related experience and/or education may be substituted in lieu of the requirements specified above under Education and Experience

What’s in it for you?

Total Rewards (For Full-Time Employees = >30 hours/week):

• Competitive Pay
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance 
• Tuition Reimbursement options
• Flexible Spending Accounts (Health, Dependent, and Transportation)
• Life Insurance
• Disability Insurance
• Paid Time Off
• 403(b) with Employer Match
• Employee Recognition Programs
• Employee Referral Bonus opportunities
• Discounts through “Tickets at Work”
• Discounts on Verizon mobile service
• And More!

Want to learn more?

To learn more about Chimes, and how you can achieve personal and professional growth within a purpose-driven organization, visit us at: https://chimes.org/Careers.

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Salary : $87,000 - $92,000