05650

(Competitive)

PRINCIPAL CONTRACTS EXAMINER

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS

Under general supervision, an employee in this class is responsible for drafting and implementing contracts for a large department or jurisdiction in accordance with federal, state and local laws and regulations and standard operating procedures. The incumbent may supervise a staff engaged in administering contracts or processing related claims for payment. Responsibility is included for initiating and developing new and improved procedures. The work involves considerable use of independent judgment and initiative, and is reviewed through conferences and reports by a higher-level administrator. Does related work as required.

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES

Consults with division administrators and the County Attorneys on matters involving contract specifications, preparation and execution.

Supervises and administers the legal, programmatic and technical review of claims and contracts between the County and outside agencies.

Approves the encumbered funds in accordance with specific terms and conditions of each contract.

Interprets relevant laws, rules, regulations and standard operating procedures for staff.

Obtains and reviews required insurance certificates, performance bonds and disclosure statements.

Develops and processes updates for contract database through PeopleSoft.

Acts as a liaison to Comptroller’s, Purchasing and County departments to answer any questions regarding the contract process and PeopleSoft.

May conduct or prepare cost-effectiveness studies for alternate procedures, operations and systems.

May project funds to be expended for budgetary purposes.

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

Comprehensive knowledge of federal, state and local regulations pertaining to contracts.

Comprehensive knowledge of the principles, practices and techniques of contract administration.

Thorough knowledge of contract terminology and procedures.

Thorough knowledge of auditing and accounting procedures applicable to government contracts.

Thorough knowledge of performance standards and budgetary concepts which will ensure that contracts are drawn up which bring full value to the County.

Ability to analyze complex data and statistical information to prepare comprehensive statistical reports.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with various agencies.

Ability to supervise the work of a clerical and professional staff in a manner conducive to full performance and high morale.

Ability to express oneself clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; courtesy; tact commensurate with the needs of the position.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Promotional:

Four (4) years of permanent competitive class status as a Legal Secretary 2 or Paralegal.

Open Competitive:

Graduation from a regionally accredited or New York State registered college or university with a Bachelor’s Degree and two (2) years of experience in governmental contract administration and interpretation; or

Graduation from a regionally accredited or New York State registered college or university with an Associate’s Degree and five (5) years of experience in governmental contract administration and interpretation.

Written 4/2020