Contract Administrator Senior

Job Description Senior Contract Administrator Under general direction, the Senior Contract Administrator manages all phases of the procurement process for complex, high-value projects across OCTA. This role supports technology, construction, rolling stock, and professional services procurements, ensuring contracts are effectively developed, negotiated, and administered in compliance with agency policies and applicable regulations. The position plays a key role in safeguarding OCTA's interests, resolving complex contract issues, and supporting major capital and operational initiatives. This is an exempt position at salary grade 205; Min $97,864.00- Mid $116,896.00 - Max $135,928.00 per year. The starting salary will be within the established range based on qualifications. This posting will remain open until a candidate is selected. What You'll Do Lead all phases of procurement for complex goods and services, including planning, budgeting, solicitation, and contract administration Evaluate bids, proposals, and quotations; conduct cost and price analysis; lead evaluation committees and vendor interviews Negotiate, draft, and issue contracts and purchase orders for major procurements Partner with project managers to ensure contract compliance, performance, and alignment with laws and regulations Review and approve invoices, claims, and contract documentation for large-scale projects Prepare contract amendments, revisions, terminations, and close-outs Resolve complex contract disputes and performance issues Develop procurement strategies aligned with project goals and funding requirements Prepare and present reports and recommendations to executive management, Board committees, and the Board of Directors Assist with development of scopes of work and Requests for Proposals (RFPs) Conduct pre-proposal conferences and site visits Mentor and support junior staff and recommend process improvements What We're Looking For Bachelor's degree in Business, Public Administration, or related field Minimum of five years of experience in contract development and administration Strong knowledge of procurement processes, contracting principles, and regulatory requirements Experience managing complex procurements in areas such as construction, technology, or professional services Excellent negotiation, analytical, and problem-solving skills Ability to interpret and apply laws, regulations, and agency policies Strong written, verbal, and presentation skills Ability to manage multiple high-priority projects in a fast-paced environment Why You'll Love It Here Lead procurement efforts for high-impact transportation and infrastructure projects Work on complex, high-visibility contracts across multiple disciplines Collaborate with project managers, engineers, and leadership teams Influence procurement strategy and process improvements Competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and career growth opportunities Join a team where innovation, integrity, and strategic thinking are valued. Apply now to help deliver critical projects through effective contract management at

OCTA. OCTA

is an equal employment opportunity employer that recruits, hires, and promotes qualified people without regard to race, color, religion, creed, ancestry, national origin, age, sex, pregnancy, gender, gender identity and/or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, medical condition, disability, genetic information, military and veteran status, or any other legally protected status. OCTA is the county's transportation planning commission and public transit operator. With a focus on safety and accountability, we plan, fund, and implement countywide projects that include bus and rail transit, freeways and express lanes, rideshare, microtransit, paratransit, active transportation, and environmental programs. We're passionate about creating a balanced, equitable and sustainable transportation system that reflects the diverse travel needs of the county's 34 cities and 3.2 million residents. Our employees rated OCTA as a top workplace in Orange County. Come join us on our mission of keeping Orange County moving.