Our Client, a Public Utility that provides natural gas and electricity to the majority of Michigan's 10 million residents is seeking a talented and self-driven individual for needs serving in the role of Sourcing / Contract Specialist

A local utility provider in Jackson, Michigan is seeking a detail‑oriented Contract Specialist to support developing bid packages, vendor performance tracking, and executing invoice approvals. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a structured environment, enjoys working with cross‑functional teams, and has a strong grasp of purchasing processes and documentation.

This position follows a hybrid schedule, requiring onsite work three days per week (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday), with remote work on Wednesdays and Fridays. Open to candidates close to service centers across lower peninsula of Michigan, but preferred locations would be Jackson or Grand Rapids. 

Responsibilities: 

Bid Package Development

• Prepare, assemble, and issue bid packages including RFQs, RFPs, and supporting documentation.
• Collaborate with internal teams to clarify technical requirements, timelines, and evaluation criteria.
• Ensure bid documents comply with utility procurement standards and regulatory expectations.

Vendor Performance Tracking

• Monitor vendor performance against contract terms, delivery schedules, and service expectations.
• Maintain performance logs and escalate issues when needed.
• Support internal teams in resolving vendor-related concerns or delays.

Invoice Review & Approvals

• Review vendor invoices for accuracy, proper coding, and alignment with purchase orders and contract terms.
• Facilitate timely invoice approvals and resolve discrepancies such as pricing mismatches or missing documentation.
• Maintain organized invoice records for audit readiness and reporting.

Purchase Order (PO) Oversight

• Track purchase orders from creation through closure.
• Monitor delivery status, confirm receipt of goods/services, and address PO‑related issues.
• Coordinate with suppliers and internal stakeholders to ensure timely fulfillment.

Cross‑Functional & Supplier Coordination

• Serve as a point of contact for suppliers regarding documentation, timelines, and deliverables.
• Work closely with engineering, operations, finance, and legal teams to support smooth procurement workflows.
• Communicate clearly and professionally to ensure alignment across all parties.

Required Qualifications

• Experience with bid package development, vendor coordination, and invoice processing.
• Strong understanding of purchase order workflows and procurement documentation.
• Familiarity with ERP or procurement systems (SAP, Oracle, Ariba, or similar).
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Strong communication and stakeholder‑management abilities.
• Ability to work independently in a hybrid environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of basic contract principles or experience supporting contract‑related activities.
• Experience and knowledge in vendor performance management.