Senior Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program Specialist (5125)

 

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The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) is the sixth largest transportation system in the United States, with a vast network of fixed route services including bus, subway/elevated, trackless trolley, light rail, and commuter rail serving a 2,200 square mile service region. SEPTA has become an integral force in the economic success of the Philadelphia region, providing an efficient and reliable source of transportation. 

 

We are seeking candidates for the position of Senior Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program Specialist (5125) in the Equity and Inclusion.   

 

 

Opening Date: 03/19/2024

Closing Date: 04/03/2024

Job Grade: SAM 41

Salary Range: Min: $89,908.00 - Mid: $112,398.00 - Max: $134,888.00 

       

OVERALL DESCRIPTION

Function as lead liaison to the Director, DBE Program Office, in the day-to-day implementation, administration, and evaluation of SEPTA’s Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Program in accordance with federal, state and local requirements.  Ensure that socially and economically disadvantaged business enterprises (DBEs) and Small Business Enterprises (SBEs) are provided an equal opportunity to participate in the design, construction, operation and procurements of contracts, goods and services through goal setting initiatives and creative outreach efforts.  Serve as senior DBE Program liaison for all major projects and special assignments.  Provide training and quality assurance supervision in completing critical DBE Program workflow products.  Develop, promote and coordinate training sessions, technical assistance and networking activities.

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Administers the DBE Program to ensure equal opportunity to DBEs/SBEs in SEPTA’s contracts and purchases in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws and regulations.
2. Interprets, develops and implements DBE Program policies and procedures in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws and regulations.
3. Functions as lead DBE Program liaison on all major projects and special assignments requiring advanced knowledge, experience and independent decision making.
4. Conducts in-depth reviews of DBE/SBE applications for certification, including on-site reviews. Prepares evaluation reports resulting from investigation to substantiate DBE/SBE certification determination. 
5. Reviews requisitions/requirements for contracts, goods and services for inclusion of DBE/SBE vendors, or to establish DBE participation goals.
6. Disseminates information and provides guidance to contractors/consultants regarding DBE requirements and contract compliance at pre-bid, pre-construction, pre-proposal, and post-award meetings.
7. Analyzes bids and proposals to ensure compliance with DBE participation requirements and prepares bid evaluations.
8. Monitors all SEPTA projects with DBE goals to ensure post-contract award compliance and progresses toward goal achievement.
9. Investigates issues of non-compliance by contractors; ensures DBEs receive appropriate payments, leads resolution of issues as necessary.
10. Provides training and quality assurance supervision for subordinate DBE Specialists in conducting certification reviews, goal determinations and resolution of DBE issues.
11. Assists contractors doing business with the Authority in developing and implementing acceptable action plans and programs for DBE compliance.
12. Develops, promotes and coordinates outreach, training sessions, technical assistance and networking activities for DBEs/SBEs and prime contractors.
13. Maintains certification files and project files in accordance with established DBE Program requirements and procedures.
14. Coordinates the development, publication and dissemination of DBE newsletters, informational brochures and handbooks concerning the DBE Program.
15. Provides expert technical assistance to internal and external customers on DBE Program issues.
16. Conducts presentations and prepares correspondence relative to the DBE Program operations and procedures.
17. Performs other duties as required.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college/university in Public/Business Administration, Management or Economics, with a minimum of six (6) years direct experience in a minority or small business development, technical assistance, procurement, administration or grant management program required, which includes in-depth knowledge of federal, state and local regulations, and requirements pertaining to DBE Utilization and/or similar programs.
• An equivalent combination of experience and education (i.e., two (2) years of related experience, equating to one (1) year of formal post high school e