Contract Specialist

Move forward with us! At NJ TRANSIT, you'll join us in transforming the third-largest transportation agency in North America. We are committed to delivering safe, reliable service that gets customers to their destinations on time – and we're looking to hire talented folks with a commitment to excellence to make it all possible. Summary Executes procurements under the direction of Procurement & Logistics Department management. Interacts professionally with stakeholders and higher-level management. Roles And Responsibilities Solicitations assigned to Contract Specialists typically are small to medium sized procurements or select activities within a larger solicitation. Researches and conforms specifications for services, goods, or equipment for Solicitations (RFPs and IFBs). Reviews the proposed specifications, contract awards, change orders and amendments including justification memoranda for conformance with applicable regulations and consistency with procurement process of other contract specialists on the team. Coordinates review of IFB and RFP packages by appropriate departments, advises project manager of review results. Conducts bid and proposal processes. Establishes and maintains procurement schedules. Performs prequalification appraisals. Coordinates technical evaluation committees. Distributes bid and proposal packages, and communicates with vendors, contractors and consultants. Tabulates bids and proposals. Reviews, analyzes, and appraises bids and proposals. Performs cost and price analyses. Negotiates scopes of service, direct and indirect costs, fees, and terms and conditions. Prepares Cost Analysis and Negotiation documentation and recommends contract award. Tracks procurements through the Board process to contract award. Prepares Procurement fact sheets for Board Liaison. Coordinates contract approval and execution process. Issues Purchase Orders (POs) against Requisitions in support of procurements or for stand‑alone small purchases. Assures that all required documents, representations, and certifications are properly executed and attached to POs and associated files as required. Contract Management Responsibilities Tracks expiration dates of current contracts and updates specifications to re‑procure in a timely manner. Reviews, analyzes, and appraises contract changes, disputes, and claims in accordance with Federal, State and NJTRANSIT procurement rules and regulations. Evaluates entitlement and conducts cost analyses. Negotiates change orders and claim settlements. Assembles and prepares justification documentation and recommends execution of contract amendments. Issues changes to POs against Requisitions in support of changes. Performs contract administration in conformance with FTA and State regulations. Interprets contract terms and conditions, maintains documentation, and coordinates issues with appropriate departments. Monitors contract performance and compliance with terms and conditions. Performs closeout of contracts. Tracks change orders through the Board process to execution. Systems Of Record Responsibilities Performs all duties within the currently approved systems of record or, where manual processes are employed, properly maintains documents in conformance with document control policies. Training Responsibilities Remain current on all required training. Create a development plan for your career. Other Responsibilities Tracks and reports on work activities with the end result being professional, transparent, efficient execution of duties. Provides both proactive and prompt responsive customer service to client departments on their procurements. Performs other duties as assigned by Procurement Leadership. Education, Experience And Qualifications Bachelor's degree and 3 years of related experience. One year of closely related work experience can be substituted for each year of education required. Master's Degree, Professional License, or Certification preferred. The degree(s) must be in Business, Public Administration, Law, Engineering, Economics, IT or related degree area. 1 year of experience with a procurement category identified for this position if applicable. Government sector experience preferred. Knowledge And Skills Contract Specialist – Technology – Must be able to work proficiently in the following Systems of Record: ECMS, Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Access Databases, Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Project, Teams), Adobe, Oracle ERP, Kronos, Bid Express, and other systems in use or under development. Systems may change over time. Communication – Must be able to understand active listening and have very good written and verbal communication skills required. Procurement Must be able to adhere to KPIs. Must be experienced in Contract Writing. Must understand the regulatory and statutory basis for public procurement. Benefits Comprehensive Family Health Insurance – Medical, Prescription, Dental, Vision Flexible Spending Account Life Insurance Paid Leave Tuition Assistance Pre‑Tax Commuter Benefits Plan Retirement Plans 401(a) – Retirement plan with a 6% employer contribution 401(k) – Retirement saving plan with up to a 3% company match 457(b) – Deferred Savings Plan At NJ TRANSIT, diversity and inclusivity are vital to our success as we are committed to hiring individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences, abilities, and veteran status. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we encourage all qualified applicants to apply and join our team. #J-18808-Ljbffr NJ TRANSIT