Contracts Manager

Recognized as one of the best places to work in Southeast Minnesota for three consecutive years, at Olmsted County every role helps to foster a vibrant community where everyone thrives. Our employees are at the heart of everything we do, driving public service excellence and community well-being.

We don’t just offer a job, we offer a career filled with purpose, growth, and fulfillment. Our benefits package ensures your wellbeing, while career advancement opportunities and professional development empower you to reach your full potential.

Join us, and you'll be part of a purpose-driven team where your work truly makes a difference. Together, we build a sustainable, healthy, and welcoming community.

Minimum Qualifications of Education and Experience

Full salary range $36.60 to $61.15 per hour.

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in finance, business administration, public administration, or related field and two (2) years of experience in a similar position as listed in the work functions.

OR

A combination of education and experience equivalent to six (6) years of experience in a similar position as listed in the work functions.

Regular and reliable attendance is a necessary component of job/position. Individuals required to use County vehicles and equipment must have a valid driver’s license and be free of any major traffic violations for the last three (3) years.

Nature of Work

Under general supervision, responsible for county-wide procurement of supplies, equipment, construction, labor services, professional, and social services. Ensures compliance with federal regulations, state statutes, policies, and procedures within approved budgets. Performs procurement solicitation, contract creation, and contract administration. Develops and provides procurement training. Monitors vendor and audit compliance. Supports a diverse, respectful, and inclusive workplace.

Examples of Work

• Coordinates complex contracts, requests for bids (RFB) and requests for proposals (RFP). Develops and writes specifications, contracts, letters, and bid awards. Prepares overviews and advises customers to achieve the most efficient and economical procurement.
• Recommends changes and implements written policies, procedures, standards, and guidelines for contracting and procurement to ensure legal compliance.
• Maintains the procurement, inventory, and solicitation electronic systems.
• Manages contract compliance and monitors vendor performance.
• Coordinates projects, assists in researching, analyzing, and resolving problems.
• Trains staff and vendors on contract and solicitation preparation and submission, and changes to rules and laws.
• Collaborates locally, regionally, and at the state level on procurement of goods and services.
• Interprets and applies Federal, State, and local contracting and procurement rules, regulations, and changes.
• Manages surplus and administers the county-wide purchasing card (pcard) program.
• Designs and implements procurement processes and procedures and makes recommendations for improvements.
• Performs related work as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Considerable knowledge of procurement methods, procedures, and techniques.
• Considerable knowledge of contract management.
• Considerable knowledge of contract law and Minnesota statutes affecting procurement including legal governmental bidding requirements.
• Knowledge of finance, cost analysis, lease agreements, life cycle costing methods, budgeting, depreciation, and consumer price indexes.
• Skill in negotiating price concessions.
• Skill in effective verbal and written communication.
• Skill in conducting data analysis.
• Skill in the use of computers and technology.
• Ability to train others on purchasing policies and procedures.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
• Ability to effectively manage large contracts.
• Ability to evaluate vendor performance and address issues.
• Ability to develop and maintain financial reports and documentation.
• Ability to interpret and implement purchasing policies and procedures.
• Ability to effectively plan, organize and assign work.

Persons with disabilities: the above is a general listing of job duties. Essential and non-essential functions may vary by individual position. Reasonable accommodations may be available for both essential and non-essential job duties.