A comprehensive training course for Contracting Officer’s Representatives covering ethics, acquisition planning, contract management, and performance oversight.
Ideal for federal personnel seeking COR certification or enhancing acquisition skills.
Overview
Syllabus
Module 1: What Is a COR?
- Defines the role and responsibilities of a Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR)
- Explains the authority and limitations of a COR
- Introduces key terminology and acquisition team members
- Discusses the legal framework governing COR actions
Module 2: What Do I Need to Know About Ethics and Integrity?
- Explores the ethical standards expected of CORs
- Describes procurement integrity and conflict of interest
- Provides examples of ethical dilemmas
- Outlines consequences of unethical behavior
Module 3: How Do I Contribute to Acquisition Planning?
- Describes the COR's role in early acquisition planning
- Outlines market research methods
- Explains how to develop a statement of work (SOW)
- Details how COR input supports cost and schedule decisions
Module 4: How Am I Involved in Awarding the Contract?
- Details how CORs assist in the source selection process
- Explains reviewing proposals and providing technical input
- Clarifies communication boundaries during evaluations
Module 5: What is My Role in Managing the Contract?
- Explains daily oversight responsibilities
- Discusses invoice review and acceptance procedures
- Covers contractor performance evaluation
- Introduces tools and documentation for contract tracking
Module 6: What if I Need to Modify the Contract?
- Defines different types of contract modifications
- Explains COR limitations in authorizing changes
- Outlines the modification process and documentation
Module 7: What if the Contract is Changed by Mistake?
- Identifies unauthorized commitments and their risks
- Explains how to avoid making unauthorized changes
- Describes ratification procedures
Module 8: What Can I Say and What Should I Document?
- Clarifies appropriate COR communication with contractors
- Explains required documentation practices
- Covers records retention and file management
Module 9: How Do I Monitor Performance?
- Describes performance metrics and monitoring techniques
- Introduces surveillance plans and checklists
- Discusses addressing contractor deficiencies
- Explains documentation of performance issues
Module 10: How Do We Handle “Issues” with a Contractor?
- Explains dispute resolution processes
- Outlines escalation procedures
- Provides guidance on issuing cure and show cause notices
Module 11: Are There Special Considerations for Service Contracts?
- Identifies unique requirements of service contracts
- Describes roles of performance-based acquisition
- Discusses contractor personnel oversight
Module 12: Are There Special Considerations for Construction Contracts?
- Explains construction-specific contract regulations
- Highlights safety and site inspection protocols
- Details construction schedule monitoring
Module 13: Are There Special Considerations for Research and Development (R&D) Contracts?
- Defines the structure of R&D contracts
- Outlines managing technical uncertainties
- Describes reporting and milestone tracking
Module 14: The Role of a COR in a Contingency Environment
- Details responsibilities in deployed and emergency settings
- Highlights compliance with contingency acquisition rules
- Addresses unique risks and safety considerations
Taught by
Anna Garcia-Durr, Jeff Hysen, Melanie Dooley, and Alan McCain