Temporary Post Contract Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by SHAPE (Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe), which is the headquarters of NATO's Allied Command Operations. SHAPE is responsible for the planning and execution of NATO operations and is a key component in the defense and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security of the member nations. Established in 1951, SHAPE operates with a mission to ensure the collective defense of its member states and to promote stability and security in the Euro-Atlantic area. The organization employs a diverse workforce of military and civilian personnel from various NATO member countries, fostering an international environment that emphasizes collaboration and mutual support. SHAPE is located in Belgium and plays a crucial role in NATO's strategic operations across Europe and beyond.

Job Overview:
The Temporary Post Contract Officer position at SHAPE is designed for a qualified individual who will be responsible for various procurement and contracting functions within the NATO Security Assistance and Training for Ukraine (NSATU) initiative. The incumbent will play a vital role in the establishment and operationalization of NSATU, ensuring that all procurement activities align with NATO's standards and regulations. This role requires a proactive approach to developing and refining the post context as the organization matures, which includes understanding the organizational structure and how this position fits within it. The successful candidate will be expected to work in a fast-paced international environment, demonstrating flexibility and responsiveness to the urgent needs of the organization. The position is temporary for a duration of six months, with the possibility of extension, and candidates must possess or have previously held a valid NATO security clearance to be considered for this role.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Temporary Post Contract Officer will undertake a comprehensive range of duties, including but not limited to:

• General Purchasing and Contracting: - Act as a Senior Contracting Officer, executing all pre-award, award, and post-award functions. - Engage in procurement planning and develop effective purchasing and contracting strategies. - Evaluate purchase requests and conduct market research as necessary. - Manage solicitation planning and source selection processes, ensuring competitive bidding. - Publicize competition and invite bidders, processing any requests for deviations from standard procurement procedures. - Independently evaluate bid proposals, assessing prices and contractor reliability based on established criteria. - Negotiate contract terms and conditions as required. - Prepare contracts for award and execute contract award strategies. - Award contracts to successful bidders, ensuring compliance with established limits. - Monitor contractor adherence to regulations and evaluate contractor performance periodically. - Train and supervise Contracting Officer’s Technical Representatives. - Take appropriate actions regarding contract modifications, terminations, and assessments of liquidated damages. - Ensure all administrative matters are concluded during contract close-out.
• Regularly refine the post context as NSATU evolves, adapting to new Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and processes as they are established.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of two years of professional acquisition experience, particularly in leading and improving procurement activities and negotiating complex contracts. A demonstrated ability to execute the full cycle of procurement activities is essential, including conducting market surveys, devising acquisition strategies, issuing solicitations, and managing contracts from award to close-out. Additionally, candidates should have experience in negotiating and executing competitive bidding procedures and effectively managing contractor claims and disputes. A strong understanding of international contract and business law is also required, along with the ability to navigate complex procurement environments.

Educational Background:
The ideal candidate should hold a University Degree in supply chain management, commercial and mercantile law, logistics, inventory management, procurement, or a related discipline. Alternatively, candidates with Higher Secondary education and advanced vocational training leading to a professional qualification or accreditation, combined with four years of related experience, will also be considered. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of procurement and contracting within the NATO framework.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least two years of relevant experience in the procurement and contracting field. This experience should include a proven track record of negotiating and executing contracts, managing competitive bidding processes, and effectively handling contractor claims and disputes. Prior experience in a military or international organization, particularly in a contracting capacity, is highly desirable. Familiarity with NATO procurement directives and multinational logistics principles will be advantageous.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, encompassing listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. Candidates should be able to communicate effectively in English, as it is the primary language of operation within NATO. While English is the required language, additional language skills may be considered an asset, particularly those relevant to NATO member states.

Additional Notes:
The position is a temporary contract for six months, with the possibility of extension based on organizational needs. Candidates must be available for immediate employment and possess a valid NATO security clearance or have previously held one that can be reactivated. The role requires a commitment of 38 hours per week, with 2.5 paid days of leave accrued for each month worked. The salary for this position is set at 6,713.06 Euros, which is exempt from taxation in Belgium. Additionally, a benefits package is provided, including a pension contribution of 12% of the basic salary, basic medical and accident insurance under the NATO Group insurance contract, and potential allowances for dependent children. Applications must be submitted through the NATO Talent Acquisition Platform, and only nationals from the 32 NATO member states are eligible to apply.