Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Program Specialist (9006)

Septa • Philadelphia, PA

6d • $82,342 - $102,908 • Onsite

About The Position

The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) is seeking a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Program Specialist (9006). This role provides staff support to the Director of the DBE Program Office, focusing on the day-to-day implementation, administration, and evaluation of SEPTA’s DBE Program in compliance with federal, state, and local requirements. The specialist ensures that socially and economically disadvantaged businesses have an equal opportunity to participate in SEPTA’s contracts and purchases through goal-setting initiatives and outreach efforts. SEPTA is the sixth-largest transportation system in the U.S., serving a 2,200-square-mile region and is recognized for its innovation and contribution to economic growth in the Philadelphia region. The authority has received accolades such as the 2023 FORBES Best in State Employer and Philadelphia Employer of Choice for 2024. Candidates must be authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college/university with a minimum of five (5) years project management, program management, business management or direct people management experience.
• An equivalent combination of experience and education (i.e., two (2) years of related experience, equating to one (1) year of formal post high school education) may be considered in lieu of the above requirements.
• Strong presentation, writing, original communications research, records management, organizational and analytical skills required.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in small business development/technical assistance, contract monitoring/compliance, financial analysis, or auditing is preferred.
• Knowledge of federal, state, and local regulations, and requirements pertaining to DBE utilization and/or similar program preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provides assistance and support to the DBE Program to ensure equal opportunity in SEPTA’s contracts and purchases in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws and regulations.
• Functions as a primary program/project liaison on DBE program matters with other Departments.
• Assists in outreach activities to recruit new firms owned, operated and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals capable of providing goods and services.
• Conducts in-depth reviews of DBE applications for certification and SBE applications for verification, including on-site reviews.
• Prepares evaluation reports resulting from investigation to substantiate DBE certification/SBE verification determination.
• Reviews requisitions/requirements for contracts, goods and services to establish DBE participation goals.
• Disseminates information and provides guidance to contractors/consultants regarding DBE program requirements and contract compliance at pre-bid, pre-construction, pre-proposal and post-award meetings.
• Analyzes submitted bids/proposals to ensure compliance with DBE participation requirements and prepare bid evaluations.
• Monitors all SEPTA projects with DBE goals to ensure post-contract award compliance, and progress towards goal achievement.
• Maintains certification files and project files in accordance with established DBE Program requirements and procedures.
• Assists with the development, publication, and dissemination of newsletters, informational brochures and hand books concerning the DBE Program.
• Provides technical assistance to internal and external customers on DBE Program issues.
• Prepares correspondence relative to the DBE Program requirements and procedures.
• Responds to inquiries and requests from internal and external sources.
• Participates in outreach, training, technical assistance and network activities conducted by the DBE Program Office.
• Performs other duties as required.

Benefits

• Comprehensive Healthcare Coverage – Medical, prescription, dental, and vision plans with little to no employee premiums.
• Retirement Security – Participate in a Defined Benefit Pension Plan and a 457B Deferred Compensation Plan to build your financial future.
• Work-Life Balance – Enjoy paid parental leave, generous vacation time, and paid holidays to recharge and spend time with loved ones.
• Employee Wellness – Access wellness programs and resources to support your physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
• Invest in Your Growth – We offer tuition reimbursement to support your education and career advancement.
• Student Loan Assistance – Our positions qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program, helping you manage and reduce student debt.
• Free Travel Perks – Receive a FREE SEPTA Transportation Pass, giving you unlimited access to all SEPTA services!

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level