Contracting Officer (CO/KO)

A Contracting Officer (CO or KO) is the only government official authorized to enter into, administer, and terminate contracts on behalf of the government. They are your primary point of contact for all contract matters.

How It Works

Contracting Officers have warrant authority — they are the only people who can legally commit the government to a contract. Other government employees (like program managers or technical evaluators) cannot authorize changes or make binding commitments. Always communicate through the contracting officer during the solicitation process. During contract performance, the CO may delegate day-to-day oversight to a Contracting Officer Representative (COR).

Example

During a solicitation, a program manager tells you they want additional features added. This has no legal effect until the Contracting Officer issues a formal modification. Only the CO can change contract terms.

Related Terms

Find Government Contracts Now

Search federal, state & local bids across 1,400+ procurement portals.

Search Contracts Free →

View All Glossary Terms → · How to Find Government Contracts (Complete Guide) →

Get Government Contract Alerts

New opportunities from 1,400+ portals delivered to your inbox. Free.

No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.