RE-ADVERTISEMENT: This position is being re-advertised; therefore, applicants that previously applied are not required to reapply. 

JOB SUMMARY: The Contract Officer is responsible for managing, reviewing, and administering a wide range of contracts and agreements in alignment with Tribal laws, policies, sovereignty principles, and Federal/State regulatory requirements. This position ensures that contractual relationships protect Tribal interest, enhance operational efficiency, and maintain legal financial compliance. The Contracts Officer serves as a key liaison between Tribal departments, vendors, partners, and legal counsel. This position will also provide advice, training and staff assistance to all programs and staff as requested or needed. 

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Must be knowledgeable of Kiowa and Federal laws and regulations, Kiowa Tribe policies and procedures.
• Collaborates with leadership to understand the Kiowa Tribe’s (KT) overall goals and strategy related to contracts.
• Maintains regular communications with the KT Tribal Employment Rights Office to certify contracts are adhering to the TERO ordinance. 
• Stay up-to-date with changes and coordinate with leadership or the Attorney General as needed. 
• Adheres to and follow all KT Tribal policies and procedures. 
• Draft, review, negotiate, and administer contracts, MOUs, professional service agreements, grant agreements, and procurement documents on behalf of the Kiowa Tribe. 
• Ensure contracts comply with Kiowa Tribal laws, procurement policies, applicable federal regulations, and any grant or compacting requirements.
• Maintain contracts records, tracking systems, and documentation to support transparency, accountability, and audit readiness.
• Collaborate with department  directors, Division Executive Directors and other relevant personnel to clarify contract requirements, deliverables, budgets, timelines, and performance expectations. 
• Coordinate with leadership and/or the Attorney General on contract language, risk management, and resolution of disputes or compliance issues. 
• Conduct due diligence on vendors, consultants, and contractors, including verification of licensing, insurance, and past performance. 
• Monitor contract performance and deadlines; facilitate amendments, renewals, payments, and close-out processes as needed. 
• Provide training and guidance to Tribal staff on contract procedures, procurement standards, and best practices. 
• Identify opportunities to improve contract workflows and support development of policies and procedures. 
• Uphold and promote Tribal sovereignty, confidentiality requirements, and culturally respectful communication in all activities. 
• Other duties as assigned.   

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in business administration, public administration, finance, or related field required. 
• A minimum of three (3) years of work experience in contract administration, procurement, grant management, or a related field. 
• Working knowledge of contract law principles, procurement standards, and basic risk management practices. 
• Familiarity with Tribal Government operations and federal grant regulations. 
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills. 
• Ability to interpret and apply laws, regulations, and policies. 
• High attention to detail and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously. 
• Proficiency with contract management software, spreadsheets, and document preparation tools. 
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality. 

REQUIREMENTS:

• Must possess a valid drivers license and be insurable under the Kiowa Tribe's motor vehicle insurance. 
• Must be willing to submit to and pass testing. 
• Must be willing to submit to and pass a background investigation which reflects good moral character. 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Standard office environment with occasional travel for training, meeting, or intergovernmental coordination. 
• May involve extended periods of sitting, reviewing documents, and working at a computer.