Senior DBE Program Specialist (5125)

Septa • Philadelphia, PA

1d

About The Position

Function as lead liaison to the Manager of Certification or Contract Compliance, in the Office of Business Advancement and Engagement (formerly DBE Program Office), in the day-to-day implementation, administration, and evaluation of SEPTA’s Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) and Small Business Enterprise (SBE) Programs in accordance with federal, state and local requirements.  Ensure that socially and economically disadvantaged businesses (DBEs) are provided an equal opportunity to participate in the design, construction, operation and procurements of contracts, goods and services through goal setting initiatives and creative outreach efforts.  Serve as senior DBE/SBE Program liaison for all major projects and special assignments.  Provide training and quality assurance supervision in completing critical DBE Program work flow products.  Develop, promote and coordinate training sessions, technical assistance and networking activities.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college/university with a minimum of six years project management, program management, business, or direct people management experience required.
• 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.
• Must have strong analytical, written, and oral communication, research, records management, organization, and analytical skills.
• Advanced ability in the operation of personal computer and standard office software required.

Nice To Haves

• 2 years’ experience in a small business development, technical assistance, procurement, administration or grant management program, which includes in-depth knowledge of federal, state, and local regulations, and requirements pertaining to DBE Utilization and/or similar program preferred.
• Prior training and mentoring staff or supervision experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Administer the DBE Program to ensure equal opportunity to DBE’s/SBE’s in SEPTA’s contracts and purchases in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations.
• Interpret, develop, and implement DBE Program policies and procedures in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations.
• Conduct detailed eligibility analyses in accordance with 49 CFR Part 26 and 23 of DBE, SBE, and Airport Concession Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (ACDBE) applications for certification, including on-site reviews.
• Independently manage and process new certification applications, annual Declarations of Eligibility, Notices of Change, North American Industry Classification (NAICS) codes modifications and withdrawals requests.
• Prepare evaluation reports resulting from investigation to substantiate certification determination.
• Function as lead DBE/SBE Program liaison on all major projects and special assignments requiring advanced knowledge, experience and independent decision making.
• Provide training and quality assurance supervision for subordinate DBE Specialists in conducting certification reviews, goal determinations, and resolution of DBE/SBE issues.
• Review requisitions/requirements for contracts, goods, and services for inclusion of DBE vendors, or to establish DBE participation goals.
• Review and approve certification applications of subordinate Specialists when delegated by management.
• Participate in Unified Certification Program (UCP) activities on behalf of department, and Coordinate with UCP partners and other certifying agencies regarding DBE/ACDBE eligibility and certification status.
• Disseminate information and provide guidance to contractors/consultants regarding DBE/SBE requirements and contract compliance at pre-bid, pre-construction, pre-proposal, and post-award meetings.
• Analyze bids and proposals to ensure compliance with DBE participation requirements and prepare bid evaluations.
• Monitor all SEPTA projects with DBE goals to ensure post-contract award compliance and progress toward goal achievement.
• Investigate issues of non-compliance by contractors; ensure DBEs receive appropriate payments, lead resolution of issues, as necessary.
• Assist contractors doing business with the Authority in developing and implementing acceptable action plans and programs for DBE compliance.
• Develop, promote, and coordinate outreach, training sessions, technical assistance, and networking activities for DBE/SBE and prime contractors, or provide support to Outreach Specialist in these activities.
• Maintain certification files and project files in accordance with established DBE/SBE Program requirements and procedures.
• Coordinate the development of new and revised documents, forms, standard operating procedures used within the department.
• Provide expert technical assistance to internal and external customers on DBE/SBE Program issues.
• Conduct presentations and prepare correspondence relative to the DBE Program operations and procedures.
• Perform 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