Senior Contract Specialist (Procurement & Contract Specialist 3)

Position Overview Senior Contract Specialist (Procurement & Contract Specialist 3), Portland, Oregon. 24‑month limited‑duration appointment with potential extension or conversion to permanent, subject to budget and legislature approval. Job Summary Provide technical and contract support for the statewide Materials Management Program, including complex procurement processes, contract negotiations, grantmaking procedures, and grant agreements. Act as Procurement section liaison to the program and serve as expert in various types of contracts, agreements, and grants. Advise program staff on full range of contract processes, contract risk evaluation, and guiding the use of appropriate solicitation and contracting methods. Key Responsibilities Provide contract and procurement guidance to program staff, addressing issues related to complex funding structures, high‑risk contracts and agreements, grants, and contracts requiring modified terms or unique conditions. Evaluate contract risks and assist in developing terms to minimize risk. Collaborate with the Procurement Manager and any Designated Procurement Officer (DPO) to develop new guidelines, policies, procedures, and training for staff. Coordinate with other government entities as needed to support program needs. Ensure compliance with all applicable state and federal procurement laws, rules, and policies. Required Qualifications Minimum 5 years of procurement and contract experience, including development and administration of standard contracts, agreements, and/or solicitations. (Bachelor’s degree may substitute for 3 years, Master’s for 4 years, Doctorate for 5 years.) Experience with complex funding sources, high‑risk contracts, grants, and contracts requiring modified terms or unique conditions. Experience evaluating contract risks and developing terms to mitigate those risks. Experience ensuring appropriate solicitation and contracting methods are used. Strong knowledge of state and federal procurement laws, rules, policies, and procedures. Experience preparing federal grant awards. Procurement and contract experience with the State of Oregon. Oregon Procurement Basic Certification (OPBC) and/or UPPCC Certified Professional Public Buyer certification preferred. Excellent collaboration, communication, critical‑thinking, and independent‑judgment skills. Ability to coordinate effectively with program subject‑matter experts and apply the Materials Management Program’s strategic vision. Desirable Attributes Demonstrated commitment to building and sustaining an equitable and inclusive culture. Excellent verbal and written communication; ability to use tact, diplomacy, and judgment in diverse settings. Ability to work independently as well as in a team, both virtual and in‑person. Willingness to travel as required. Benefits & Working Conditions Competitive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, paid sick leave, vacation, personal leave, and 11 paid holidays. Membership in the Public Employees Retirement System (PERS). Potential loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. Full‑time, AFSCME‑represented position. Hybrid work may be available; discuss with Hiring Manager. Occasional travel for meetings, conferences, and vendor visits. Work may involve evening, weekend, or overnight work; lift up to 25lbs. Equal Opportunity Employer We are an equal‑opportunity employer and do not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, ethnicity, veteran status, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, marital status, age, or physical or mental disability in the administration of our programs and activities. #J-18808-Ljbffr