DACO (Divisional Administrative Contracting Officer)

What is DACO (Divisional Administrative Contracting Officer)?

The Divisional Administrative Contracting Officer (DACO) is a specialized role within government contract administration. This individual is responsible for managing and overseeing the administrative aspects of contracts after they have been awarded, but typically within a specific division or organizational component of the procuring government agency. They act as a localized point of contact and oversight for contract performance.

Definition

A DACO is a Contracting Officer (CO) who has been delegated authority by a higher-level CO to administer specific contracts or types of contracts within a particular division or business unit of a government agency. Their duties are generally focused on post-award activities. This delegation helps to decentralize contract management, allowing for more focused attention on individual contracts and improved responsiveness to contractor needs within their division. DACO responsibilities can include monitoring contractor performance, approving invoices, processing contract modifications, conducting on-site inspections, resolving disputes, and ensuring compliance with all applicable regulations and contract terms. The DACO operates under the authority and guidance of the primary CO who maintains overall responsibility for the contract.

The specific authorities and responsibilities delegated to a DACO are defined in the delegation of authority letter issued by the primary CO. These delegations adhere to the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and other applicable agency-specific regulations. Contractors need to understand the DACO's role and scope of authority to ensure proper communication and compliance throughout the contract's lifecycle.

Key Points

• Delegated Authority: DACOs operate under delegated authority from a higher-level CO.
• Post-Award Focus: Their primary focus is on post-award contract administration.
• Divisional Specificity: DACOs typically manage contracts within a specific division or unit.
• Point of Contact: They serve as a key point of contact for contractors within their area of responsibility.

Practical Examples

1. DCMA Assignment: A DCMA (Defense Contract Management Agency) administrative contracting officer may be assigned as the DACO for a specific division within a defense contractor's facility, overseeing multiple contracts related to that division's products.
2. Invoice Approval: A DACO reviews and approves invoices submitted by a contractor for services rendered under a contract assigned to their division, ensuring that the work aligns with the contract's terms and conditions.
3. Change Order Processing: A contractor requests a change order to the original contract. The DACO assigned to that project reviews the request, negotiates terms with the contractor, and then forwards the recommendation to the primary CO for final approval.