Senior Contract Administrator (Construction)

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES:  Performs specialized and professional contract administrator work of a complex nature involving the preparation, management, award, and the administration of contracts, including the negotiation of change orders and the resolution of claims and disputes.  Involves construction, and A/E contracts, and selected equipment, supply and service contracts.  Work requires procurement experience, construction knowledge, engineering skills and knowledge of contract law.  Manages the cross-functional procurement responsibilities of the program offices, and leads and coordinates the formation of the contracts, the selection process and the post-award contract administration functions.  Administers the larger and/or more complex procurements and exercises considerable independence in the performance of the duties.  Advises customers on policies, business practices and contract interpretation.  Versed in all types of contracts and works with customers to select the appropriate contract type for a specified effort.  Directs the development of the source selections.  Develops, or oversees the development for the selection of the source, award and administration of construction, engineering, or selected supplies and services contracts.  Utilizes independent judgment to manage the more difficult, complex contract issues involving disputes, modifications, claims, and closeouts.  Responsible for investigating unresolved contract disputes and recommending and implementing solutions.  Work often involves investigation of contract claims requiring the employee to consider technical engineering drawings, plans, specifications and change orders in addition to contract law and legal precedents.  Acts as a cross-functional team leader with representatives from other DC WASA Departments.  Directs work of Contract Specialists assigned to assist with larger, more complex procurements.  Develops the negotiation position and leads negotiations with contractors.  May act as negotiation team leader. Represents the Authority in solving problems and explaining acquisition requirements.  Holds discussions with customers and with industry representatives concerning contract pricing and other contractual matters.  May chair pre-bid and pre-proposal conferences.  Provides advice and informal on the job training and coaching to less experienced contracting personnel.  Evaluates Authority contract policies. Assists in updating policy instructions and operating procedures involving the integrity of the contract process and enforces compliance with guidance contained therein.  Performs other duties and responsibilities as assigned by supervisor.

 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:  Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, Accounting, Economics, Engineering or a related field from an accredited college or university and seven (7) years of progressive experience in procurement and contract administration.  Prefer professional certification from the National Institute of Government Purchasing (NIGP), National Contracts Management Association (NCMA), or the Institute for Supply management (ISM), or the ability to obtain certification from any of these organizations within one (1) year of employment.  Skill in managing complex term contracts and thorough understanding of the process of construction contracting and administration.  Ability to analyze construction contracting issues, and develop objectives for resolution.  Strong analytical, planning, organizing, and management skills.  Ability to conduct professional contract negotiations.  Must possess excellent interpersonal skills.  Utilizes personal computer and maintains a working knowledge of applicable software programs (i.e. word processing, spreadsheets, e-mail, etc.).