Contracting Officer 2

Metra•Chicago, IL

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Contracting Officer 2 is responsible for various procurement processes and designated assignments. This role involves the review, preparation, and execution of moderately complex procurement contracts and documents, facilitating effective vendor relationships, researching cost information, and ensuring procurement activities comply with applicable local, state, and federal regulations. The position safeguards the interests of the agency and its contractual relationships. This position is covered by the “Revolving Door” prohibition within the State Officials and Employees Act (5 ILCS 430/5-45). Metra is a railroad employer subject to the Railroad Retirement Tax Act.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree preferably in Business or Public Administration, Supply Chain, Materials Management, or Industrial Distribution OR in lieu of a degree, any combination of education and experience may be substituted that equals four (4) years in procurement operations, contract administration or management, or as a senior buyer, preferably in a government, railroad, public transportation, or manufacturing industry.
Two (2) years of experience in procurement operations, materials management, contract administration or management, or as a senior buyer, preferably in a government, railroad, public transportation, or manufacturing industry.
Working knowledge of contract and procurement principles, practices, and procedures as they apply to the transit industry and public agencies.
Working knowledge of procurement processes including specification and proposal preparation, solicitation methodologies, and formulation of moderately complex contract documents.
Knowledge of local, state, and federal agencies i.e., the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), and Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) and the laws and regulations that govern public sector purchasing programs as well as contract and procurement activities to ensure compliance.
Proficient in the use of Microsoft 365 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) for document creation and tracking.
Familiar with use of enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, procurement and materials management programs, or solicitation and contract management applications.
Good written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills for negotiating, developing effective and cooperative working relationships with internal and external stakeholders and vendors, and customer service.
Good organization and analytical skills and attention to detail for reviewing and preparing contract documents.
Ability to use sound judgment, discretion, and initiative when making impartial and objective award recommendations and resolving contract-related problems that are moderately complex and sensitive in nature.
Ability to maintain professional integrity and the highest ethical standards while adhering to public procurement processes.
Ability to manage and negotiate contracts for professional and non-professional services, materials, and supplies.
Ability to understand, interpret, and communicate policies, procedures, contract terms and conditions to others, and adhere to local, state, and federal regulatory requirements governing business practices, performance, and transparency.
Ability to prioritize, multi-task, and work under pressure independently or on a team.
Ability to analyze data, evaluate proposals, and identify potential risks and issues.

Nice To Haves

Certification (CPP, CPPB, CPPM) from an accredited procurement program such as the National Institute of Government Purchasing (NIGP) or certification from another similar program.

Responsibilities

Review and prepare moderately complex contracts, specifications, and solicitation documents for various goods and services for the implementation of various projects; and ensure compliance with relevant local, state, and federal regulations, agency policies and standards, and funding agency requirements.
Research market conditions and products; perform value analyses to ensure cost-effective and competitive pricing; identify available vendor sources; and recommend procurement strategies and delivery methods that maximize value to support procurement decisions.
Recommend, negotiate, and approve specifications, scopes of work, pricing, and contract terms for goods and services; and provide assistance and guidance to junior level team members.
Manage competitive procurements including the bidding process; prepare and analyze sealed bids, proposals, requests for quotes, statements of qualifications, including contract creation, administration, and maintenance throughout the contract lifecycle; and ensure processes follow local, state, and federal laws, regulations, and requirements.
Monitor contractor performance, track project progress, and perform final close-outs for delivery schedules, payment provisions, and other contract requirements; review contracts, requisitions, and purchase orders ensuring they reflect all relevant information for timely completion and to address contract issues that may arise; and provide dispute resolutions.
Promote safe work practices and maintain and foster a safe work environment.
Perform other related duties as assigned to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.