Contract Specialist III

This opportunity is being reannounced. Candidates who have already applied need not re-apply; all applicants will be considered.

This advanced-level contract specialist serves as a contracts team lead and works closely with the supervising contract specialist to assist in the overall coordination and management of the contracts team. This position is responsible to the supervisor for ensuring that the work of other contract personnel on the team is carried out; and, as a regular and recurring part of the job, mentors, trains, coaches and leads less experienced employees in accomplishing work. Also manages independent procurement activities associated with a wide variety of advanced, complex, high-dollar and/or specialized goods and services, as well as professional and consulting services, construction, and information technology.

Work includes full life cycle support for procurement and contract actions to include pre-award, post-award, contract negotiation, administration, termination, and closeout. Work requires collaboration and proactive communication with management, staff, and stakeholders, as well as the use of critical thinking skills, initiative, and professional judgment. Provides subject matter expertise to assist customer departments with policies and procedures related to procurement and contracting. Uses automated contracting and financial system to process and finalize contracts and purchase orders. Works under the direction of the supervising contract specialist.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Any combination of education, experience, and training equivalent to the following:
(Click on the aforementioned link to learn how Fairfax County interprets equivalencies for "Any combination, experience, and training equivalent to")
Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major course work in public administration, business administration, supply chain management or a related field, including or supplemented by courses in procurement and supply chain management principles, laws, methods and procedures; plus three years of progressively responsible experience in technical procurement work. Comprehensive knowledge of contracting laws, principles and contracting strategies. Ability to influence others.

CERTIFICATES AND LICENSES REQUIRED:
Certification by a nationally recognized professional purchasing organization is required.

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
The appointee to this position will be required to complete a criminal background check and credit check to the satisfaction of the employer.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Knowledge of the Virginia Public Procurement Act.
• Knowledge of the Fairfax County Purchasing Resolution.
• Knowledge of Fairfax County procurement systems and procurement policies and procedures.
• Experience in structuring and negotiating contract documents.
• Experience negotiating terms and conditions with both government and non-governmental vendors.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills, including language, spelling, and grammar.
• Ability to organize, prioritize and coordinate multiple work activities to meet critical deadlines.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and SharePoint, Outlook, and Teams
• Certification from a nationally recognized professional procurement organization.
• Excellent customer service skills.

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Requisition 26-00763