At Commerce, we’re a little different. We commit to meeting our customer’s timeframes but balance that with more than 60 percent of our staff who telework or have a flexible schedule. Our parking is free but many of our employees bike year round and we have bikes available for employee use. We offer commuting program incentives for carpools, vanpools and bus riders to attract talent from all places and reduce greenhouse gas emissions when possible. We know that a diverse workforce is good for business, our customers and group problem solving, and are committed to fostering a diverse, culturally competent staff.
About this job:
Using critical thinking skills and independent judgment, the Chief Contracts Officer provides innovative leadership and expertise in the in the agency’s contracting activities. The Chief Contracts Officer is the agency’s subject matter expert on state contracting regulations, policies and procedures as well as with federal grant regulations and policies who’s scope of responsibility spans across the entire agency.
The incumbent is responsible for policies and procedures to ensure legal and technical sufficiency of agency contracts, grants, Memoranda of Understanding, leases, and other agreements; for conducting and/or overseeing competitive contract solicitations and negotiations; and for developing, publishing and overseeing compliance with agency contracting policies and procedures. This responsibility includes our contracting with other state agencies, local governments, tribes and non-profits to meet program objectives.
As the Core Process Owner of Managing Grants, Loans and Contracts, and subject matter expert for contracts and ethics, he/she will have influence on the actions of every employee. This position is responsible for the development and maintenance of agency contract policies ensuring consistency and lawful practice. He/she will be responsible for developing programs to enhance professional contracting and contract oversight work force within Commerce; assuring that contracting personnel meet minimum state-wide levels of training established by the Department of Enterprise Services.
Key Duties:
Responsible for determining training needs for staff on the elements of contract law, and state and federal requirements. Train staff on the use of contract templates and provide technical assistance.
Responsible for internal communication related to ethics and to managing grants, loans and contracts, including maintaining the intranet pages and accuracy of content.
Core Process Owner for Managing Grants, Loans and Contracts for Results Commerce, the incumbent is empowered to lead the work on process improvements and initiating problem solving.
Ensure staff have the tools and knowledge necessary to execute proper contracts as required by RCW, WAC, SAAM, federal and agency policy.
Ensure contract templates are up to date and contain the appropriate language necessary to be enforceable under the law and administrative regulation.
Ensure policy initiatives relating to procurement are being executed in an effective and efficient fashion.
Agency appointed ethics officer, liaison between the State Ethics Board and agency staff regarding the ethical standards of conduct for public employees. Provide ethics training for staff, offer advice and when necessary confer with the State Ethics Board staff for additional advice.
Required Qualifications:
Juris Doctor (JD) degree and licensed to practice law
AND
Four years of increasingly responsible experience in negotiating, administering or terminating government contracts, contract cost or price analysis or contract compliance administration.
Knowledge of state contracting rules, regulations and procedures.
Ability to lead and oversee major government purchasing actions including development of specifications and solicitation documents, managing sealed bid processes, evaluating and selecting the winning vendor, and addressing protests.
Knowledge of federal grant regulations and procedures.
Ability to communicate technical concepts in plain language. Ability to work collaboratively.
Knowledge of process improvement methods.
Desired Qualifications:
Professional certification as a Certified Purchasing Manager, Certified Government Financial Manager, or other applicable certification.
Law degree and membership in the Washington State Bar Association.
Not from Olympia?
As the state’s capitol, Olympia is located off Interstate 5 at the bottom of the Puget Sound roughly half-way between Seattle and Portland, and less than a two hour drive to the coast, temperate rainforest, mountains, urban city, or farmlands. With year-round art festivals, parades, theatre shows, concerts, and community events, Olympia and its surrounding cities have something for everyone. For parents, it boasts some of the best schools in the nation and the renowned Hands on Children’s Museum. Home to two universities (The Evergreen State College and Saint Martin’s University), Olympia residents also have the opportunity to pursue a degree while working!
I want to work for Commerce! How do I apply?
Please visit www.careers.wa.gov for more information and to apply. The following attachments will need to accompany your completed application:
- A letter of interest with a detailed description of your experience as it pertains to the qualifications listed
- A current resume
- A list of at least three professional references
The initial screening will be solely based on the contents and completeness of your application and application materials submitted. All information may be verified and documentation may be required. The hiring authority reserves the right and may exercise the option to make a hiring decision at any time during the announcement period.
Please Note: This position is open until filled with the desire to fill as soon as the ideal candidate is identified. For questions about this recruitment, please contact Amy Goodall-Rasmussen at 360-725-2654 or email amy.goodall-rasmussen@nullcommerce.wa.gov.
Additional Information:
The Washington State Department of Commerce complies with the employment eligibility verification requirements of the federal Form I-9. The selected candidate must be able to provide proof of identity and eligibility to work in the United States consistent with the requirements of that form on the first day of employment.
The Washington State Department of Commerce is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, veterans or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply. Persons needing accommodation in the application/testing process or this job announcement in an alternative format may call Human Resources at (360) 725-2650. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6388.