Contract Assistant

Project Background:

The USAID/Lebanon Trade and Investment Facilitation (TIF) Activity facilitates the export of Lebanese goods and services to generate foreign exchange through investments and through reforms of the Business and Investment Enabling Environment (BIEE) that simultaneously promote job creation, income generation and improved livelihoods throughout the country.

TIF has three objectives:

(1) Increased exports of Lebanese goods and services.

(2) Investment facilitation leading to increased domestic investment.

(3) Improved business and investment enabling environment.

Purpose:

The Contracts Assistant will support the Procurement and Subcontracts Manager in all activities related to contractual agreements and human resource documentation according to DAI’s policies and procedures and USAID requirements. The individual will be responsible for learning and adherence to project’s Field Operations Manual (FOM), USAID regulations, contract requirements, including limitations, policies, procedures, and reporting systems.

Responsibilities and Key Tasks:

• Assist in managing day-to-day operations of the department and reviewing key contracts.
• Carry out administrative tasks as required by the Manager, including engaging with the requestor’s needs and requirements for the contract and assisting in meetings, preparing minutes and any/all filing requirement (TAMIS, TAMIS Pro, Sharepoint and Oracle).
• Research previous agreements, current procedures, and regulations.
• Provide assistance to the Manager on matters involving contracts and tracking all existing contracts.
• Gather information and collect needed documents to help prepare and draft contracts/ agreements for selected candidates (short and long term). Maintain electronic databases and files used to track contract activity.
• Working with requestors, determine when contract amendments (renewals) are necessary.
• Initiate documents to amend agreements.
• Verify documentation to compliantly process contracts and agreements.
• File and required documentation in appropriate DAI systems and in project shared files, ensuring coordination with other TIF departments.
• Screening contractors before awards are made.
• Issue and process approved payments to contractors in TAMIS.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree required. Degree in business, human resources or related field preferred.
• At least three years of relevant professional experience.
• Demonstrated experience working with diverse teams in a fast-paced environment.
• Familiarity with USAID rules and regulations preferred but not required.
• Ability to identify alternative solutions to solve complex problems.
• Strong communication skills – both written and oral – in English and Arabic.
• Ability to draft moderate to complex contractual agreements.
• Attention to detail; ability to meet deadlines and to work under pressure.