Contract Technician

The Missouri Department of Conservation is hiring a Regional Contract Technician in Columbia, MO. This role involves supporting contract development, administration, and procurement processes, including bid packet creation and quality assurance reviews. The technician will serve as a primary contact for stakeholders and ensure compliance with contracting procedures. Strong communication and organizational skills are required. The position is primarily office-based with occasional travel.
About the position

The Regional Contract Technician at the Missouri Department of Conservation plays a crucial role in supporting the agency's mission by assisting with contract development, administration, and procurement processes. This position involves developing bid packets, conducting bid processes, and making award recommendations. The technician will perform quality assurance reviews on all phases of contracts and serve as the primary contact for stakeholders regarding the contract process. The role requires a strong understanding of procurement systems and contract compliance, ensuring that all activities align with Missouri Revised Statutes governing contracting procedures. In this position, the technician will assist with various contract-related tasks, including area maintenance, habitat services, and maintenance services. They will conduct pre-bid meetings, formal bid openings, and review contractor bid proposals to ensure compliance with Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) and Women Business Enterprise (WBE) requirements. The technician will also maintain records in accordance with Department policy, track payments, and assist with contract disputes. Additionally, they will utilize procurement and agreement systems, maintain procurement templates, and create vendor FAQs to streamline the contract process. The technician will also perform administrative tasks such as time entry and professional development training, and will be expected to assist staff with contract reviews and audits. The role requires strong interpersonal communication skills to collaborate effectively with internal and external stakeholders, as well as the ability to manage financial, material, and personnel resources efficiently. The work environment is primarily office-based, with occasional travel to remote locations and exposure to wildlife and varying weather conditions.

Responsibilities
• Assist with contract development, including area maintenance, habitat services, and maintenance services.
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• Develop bid packets and conduct bid processes, including cooperative agreements and award recommendations.
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• Perform quality assurance reviews on all phases of contracts and conduct pre-bid meetings and formal bid openings.
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• Review contractor bid proposals to determine responsiveness and ensure compliance with MBE/WBE requirements.
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• Serve as the primary contact for contractors, Conservation Business Services, insurance providers, and the general public regarding contracts.
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• Perform contract maintenance and compliance activities to ensure adherence to Missouri Revised Statutes contracting procedures.
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• Assist staff with contract reviews and audits, providing technical support in plan development.
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• Develop contract efficiencies regionally and statewide, tracking payments and maintaining records in accordance with Department policy.
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• Assist with contract disputes and ensure compliance with contract terms.
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• Utilize appropriate procurement and agreement systems, maintaining procurement templates and vendor FAQs.
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• Maintain a regional vendor list and database of contractors for construction projects, assisting vendors and staff with the contract process.
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• Track and submit all contract invoices to ensure contract compliance.
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• Maintain Department pool vehicles, coordinating with regional mechanics for maintenance and cleaning.

Requirements
• High school diploma or GED required; college/technical school certificate in business administration desired.
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• Three (3) years related procurement work experience required; 5-8 years desired.
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• Certified Professional Public Buyer (CPPB) or Certified Professional Procurement Officer (CPPO) certificates desired.
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• Understanding of computer systems, data and records management, including Microsoft products, Adobe Professional, and ArcGIS.
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• Knowledge of data management, record keeping, and data analysis.
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• Understanding of basic accounting principles, internal/external auditing practices, and project proposal processes.
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• Familiarity with contract development and administration and meeting facilitation.
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• Strong interpersonal communication and collaboration skills with internal and external stakeholders.
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• Ability to develop and implement budgets.
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• Strong writing, speaking, mathematical, critical thinking, and complex problem-solving skills.
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• Strict attention to detail and ability to manage financial, material, and personnel resources.

Nice-to-haves
• Experience with ArcGIS software.
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• Knowledge of Missouri Revised Statutes related to contracting procedures.
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• Experience in environmental conservation or related fields.

Benefits
• Compensatory time in lieu of cash payments for overtime work.
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• Mobile device-cellular phone for Department business as needed.
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• Tobacco-Free working environment.