Job Posting:
JR101653 Contract Specialist (Open)
Department:
Procurement & Business Svcs , PM
Position Type:
Regular
Open Date:
09-22-2026
Close Date:
10-13-2026
$80,000.00 Annually
Job Description:
The Contract Specialist’s primary responsibilities are to procure contracts for a variety of needed commodities and services for the University at the lowest price consistent with competitive best value in accordance with USM Procurement Policies and Procedures. The role researches, evaluates, establishes and administers contracts within guidelines and fiscal prudence. This position may supervise personnel and reports to the Associate Director of Procurement.
Responsibilities:
- Have a thorough understanding of the mandatory regulations, policies, and programs the University is subject to (Federal, State, University System of Maryland).
- Supports the technical guidance of university personnel on the procurement process. Acts as a resource to others.
- Develops solicitations and requests for quotes templates/form and solicitations based on best value and price, obtaining full and open competition utilizing proper and complex procurement methods (simplified, cooperative, competitive sealed bidding or proposals, sole source, etc). Leads and assists departments in development of needs, including market research, selecting vendors, and evaluating specifications. Performs cost, price, or revenue analysis, and evaluate offers as appropriate. Confirm funding and required approvals.
- Ensures that current policies and procedures are incorporated into templates and forms, updated as necessary to reflect current practices.
- Prepare and issue purchase orders and contracts within signature authority, and for approval of Director.
- Ensure contracts are renewed, updated, or rebid in advance of renewal or expiration. Perform contract management including validating business/insurance documentation, award, kick off meetings as necessary, resolution of disputes, timely issuance of renewal or termination, contract close out, contractor transition planning and management, serving as liaison between suppliers and department. Negotiate terms and conditions of contracts requiring signoff. Document procurement files completely, accurately, and in compliance with all policies, procedures and standards.
- Implement and document the State of Maryland Socioeconomic, Preferred Provider, and Green Buying programs as they apply to purchases.
- Assist in supporting adhoc reporting for management, auditors, Maryland Public Information Act (MPIA) requests, etc.
- May supervise (buyers or administrative staff levels), mentor, or coordinate work of others. Positions that supervise are responsible for performance evaluation and correction, timesheet, and goal formulation. May independently manage or administer programs, processes, projects, or resources.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
- File financial disclosure with the State of Maryland Ethics Commission.
Minimum Qualifications:
EDUCATION
- Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university, or equivalent additional years of experience is required.
- Master's Degree is preferred but not required.
EXPERIENCE
- Three or more years of progressively responsible experience related in Procurement. Experience at an institution of higher education is preferred.
- Except for qualifications established by law, additional related experience and formal education in which one has gained the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for full performance of the work of the job class may be substituted for the education or experience requirements on a year-by-year basis with 30 undergraduate college credits being equivalent to one year of related experience. In instances where specific education and/or experience is required only directly related education, and or experience may be substituted.
- Experience in procurement of contractual services and USM Policy & Procedure preferred.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
- Must have strong human relations as well as excellent oral and written communications skills. Ability to support effective partnerships with customers and supplier partners. Ability to perform with a high degree of diplomacy, integrity, confidentiality and professionalism.
- Experience in making presentations, facilitating consensus, and an understanding of the academic environment.
- Working knowledge of current computerized systems/software appropriate to Procurement including word processing, spreadsheets and database management.
- Demonstrated ability to analyze problems, identify solutions, make, and implement effective decisions. Ability to adapt to change, think critically with limited information, as well as continuously seek quality service and process improvements to support the Department’s mission and strategic vision.
- Knowledge of best practices in the field.
- Ability to work cooperatively with others and independently.
- Ability to prioritize new and ongoing projects and conduct research.
Additional Job Information:
BENEFITS SUMMARY
Coppin State University offers a competitive benefits package to include health insurance options (medical, dental, vision), life and disability insurance, retirement plan contributions, as well as paid leave and federal holidays for all regular employees. Please see the link below to view the benefits that Coppin State University has to offer.
https://www.coppin.edu/benefits
Coppin State University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, ethnicity, national origin, ancestry, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy, age, disability status or veteran status. View the EEOC Know Your Rights poster for more information regarding your rights under the law.
If you experience difficulties utilizing the online application system or you require reasonable accommodations during any part of the pre-employment process, please contact Human Resources at AskHR@coppin.edu. Please note that only inquiries regarding a request for reasonable accommodation or system issues will be responded to when contacting this e-mail account. Reasonable accommodation will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
