Contract Officer

Overview

The Contract Officer role involves managing the entire contract lifecycle from initiation through to closure. This position includes market analysis, contract negotiation, and administration, as well as fostering productive and respectful relationships with a diverse supplier base. The role is focused on servicing the needs of vulnerable individuals, families, and communities within a human services environment in Bundaberg, Queensland.

Essential Requirements

This position is a targeted vacancy and requires the appointee to be an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person. Applicants are to provide a referee who can verify their cultural background, skills, and experience related to this role.

Key Duties

• Engage in comprehensive procurement processes related to regional operations to ensure high-quality, compliant service delivery.
• Establish, negotiate, and oversee contracts with suppliers to facilitate services aligned with human services regulations.
• Maintain constructive relationships with diverse suppliers to promote responsive service for vulnerable clients.
• Provide guidance and information on investment criteria, quality assurance, and compliance requirements to suppliers and department personnel.
• Monitor supplier adherence to contracts, program guidelines, legislation, and departmental policies.
• Inspect services covered under licenses and ensure compliance through site visits.
• Identify performance issues in suppliers, implement remediation, and escalate as necessary.
• Negotiate contract renewals, amendments, and terminations effectively.
• Evaluate funding applications consistent with legislative frameworks and program goals.
• Collaborate internally with various teams to optimize service value and quality.
• Represent the department professionally at external forums with suppliers and stakeholders.
• Prepare comprehensive briefs, plans, quotes, reports, and correspondence adhering to departmental standards.

Additional Information

The Department of Families, Seniors, Disability Services and Child Safety aims to support and improve the lives of Queensland's most vulnerable populations. Staff members contribute directly to impactful social services across the region.

Mandatory Requirements

• Successful criminal history screening via the Queensland Blue Card system.
• Ability to travel as required and possession of a current C class driver's license.

Preferred Qualifications

Formal accreditation in procurement, purchasing, or contract management (e.g., Queensland Purchasing, QGCPO, CIPS) is highly regarded or the capacity to obtain such qualifications is expected.

Other

Applications will remain active and valid for 12 months.