Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR / COTR)

A Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR), also known as a Contracting Officer’s Technical Representative (COTR), is a government official designated by the Contracting Officer to oversee specific aspects of contract performance. While the Contracting Officer (CO or KO) has the sole authority to bind the government contractually, the COR acts as the technical liaison between the government and the contractor.

What is a Contracting Officer’s Representative

A contracting officer representative is responsible for monitoring contractor performance, ensuring deliverables meet requirements, and verifying that work is performed according to the contract. The COR does not have the authority to change contract terms or obligate funds. Instead, they serve as the “eyes and ears” of the Contracting Officer on technical and performance matters.

Sometimes contractors hear questions like “Are you the Contracting Officer’s Representative?” or statements such as “You are the Contracting Officer’s Representative.” These phrases underscore the importance of clarity about roles in federal procurement. Only individuals formally designated by the Contracting Officer hold COR responsibilities.

Contracting Officer’s Representative Duties and Responsibilities

Common COR duties include:

• Monitoring the technical performance of the contractor

• Reviewing invoices to confirm the accuracy of billed work

• Performing inspections and acceptance of deliverables

• Documenting contractor performance for past performance records

• Acting as the primary point of contact on technical matters
  
  

The Contracting Officer’s Representative's responsibilities vary depending on the contract, but always support the Contracting Officer’s oversight role.

Contracting Officer’s Representative Training and Certification

To be designated as a COR, government employees must complete the required training. The Federal Acquisition Institute (FAI) and Defense Acquisition University (DAU) offer contracting officer representative training programs. These courses cover acquisition regulations, ethics, performance monitoring, and contract administration.

There are multiple levels of certification depending on the contract’s complexity. A Level I COR may oversee low-risk contracts, while Level III CORs handle complex, high-value procurements.

Contracting Officer’s Representative Jobs and Career Path

Many federal agencies regularly post contracting officer representative jobs. These positions are open to government employees who meet training and experience requirements. The role is critical for ensuring contractors deliver what the government has paid for.

According to public salary data, the contracting officer representative's salary varies by agency, grade level, and geographic location. Typically, CORs are classified under GS pay scales, with salaries increasing alongside responsibility and tenure.

Importance of the COR in Federal Contracting

The COR plays a vital role in contract administration by providing technical oversight and ensuring compliance. Contractors should maintain open communication with the COR, respond to feedback quickly, and document performance thoroughly.