Position Title: Procurement and Contract Specialist. Classification: Full-time. Grant-funded for 5 years. Organization Summary: The Sustainable Ohio Public Energy Council ("SOPEC") seeks candidates for the position of Procurement and Contract Specialist. SOPEC was established in 2014 and serves member communities and political subdivisions across the State of Ohio. The position will assist in the continued development of, and growth and service to, SOPEC member communities and political subdivisions. SOPEC has a strong commitment to sustainability and the advancement of the renewable energy economy. SOPEC is governed by the members it serves. Grant Project Summary: This position stems directly from SOPEC's successful application for the U.S. Joint Office of Energy and Transportation Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Discretionary Grant Program (CFI), under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which aims to bridge gaps in the nation's EV charging infrastructure. SOPEC's project, the Southeast to Southwest Ohio Responsive Interregional Deployment of Electrification Solutions (RIDES), is designed to significantly bolster EV infrastructure in southeast and southwest Ohio by adding 60 charging stations to fill critical gaps in charging accessibility. This expansion will support regional travel and tourism across 20 communities, blending rural, urban, and suburban environments emphasizing equity, accessibility, safety, environmental impact, and economic development. This position is funded by SOPEC's successful application for the CFI Discretionary Grant Program, which authorizes 5 fiscal years of funding. Position Summary: The Procurement and Contract Specialist is a 5-year grant-funded position through the CFI Discretionary Grant Program. The Procurement and Contract Specialist, in coordination with the EV Project Manager, EV Program Manager, and other key SOPEC personnel, applies the contracting process from beginning to end, managing the post-award contract administration, as it aligns with the project goals and objectives in select communities and alternative fuel corridors. Job Description: Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following: Review, analyze, process, and maintain various documents, monthly reports, questionnaires, audit reports, invoices, etc. for accuracy and compliance; In coordination with the EV Project Manager and other key SOPEC personnel, write, publish, and oversee the public bid process, including RFIs/RFPs for project needs and services and identification and selection of qualified subcontractors for various aspects of the project; Write, review, execute, and amend project service contracts with selected vendors for procurement, installation, operation, and maintenance of EV charging infrastructure; Review invoices to determine that the expenses and expenditures are in line with the contract budget, terms, and conditions; Compile statistics and estimates to use in preparing reports; Regular contact with key SOPEC personnel, contractors, vendors, and other external stakeholders; Attend public meetings and hearings as required by the project; and Additional duties and responsibilities as assigned. Education and Experience/Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor's degree from an accredited educational institution in business administration, finance, or another relevant field, and at least 2 years of relevant experience; Candidate must live in, or be willing to relocate to, Ohio; Candidate must have a valid driver's license and a vehicle to travel throughout the Ohio region as required; Familiarity with renewable technologies and electric vehicles is desired; and If a candidate meets 80% of the requirements/qualifications, we strongly encourage them to apply. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Candidate must have a commitment to a sustainable and equitable energy future for the region; Passion for serving underserved communities and being a public servant; Attention to detail and ability to meet deadlines with quality products; Willingness to work collaboratively in a team environment; Professional and proactive work ethic; High competence in project and stakeholder management; Excellent interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills; Competency in Microsoft, including Word, Excel, Outlook, and Google applications; Some travel is required, with mileage reimbursed by SOPEC; and Professional development opportunities are available. Responsibility: The Procurement and Contract Specialist reports to the Director of Finance. Highly responsible, entry-level position with some independence requiring judgment and sensitivity to the organization and public relations. Personal Work Relationships: The Procurement and Contract Specialist will have daily contact with co-workers in the organization, elected and appointed officials, members of the news media, and the general public. The purpose of these contacts is to provide helpful information about the activities of the organization and to promote strong public relations for the organization. Working Conditions: Work is performed in a normal office setting and/or remotely. Work is also sometimes performed at local government meetings across Ohio, and some occasional driving and travel time may be required. Compensation: This full-time, benefits-eligible position includes a required contribution by the employee and employer to the Ohio Public Employees Retirement System (OPERS). A background check will be required. For full consideration, candidates should apply by November 15, 2024.
