Charles E Lerner

Charles A. Lerner serves as a Contracting Officer responsible for managing complex professional services acquisitions across scientific, technical, and research domains. In this role, he ensures compliance with federal procurement regulations while advancing mission-critical objectives through competitive, transparent contracting processes. He primarily handles task and delivery order contracts under indefinite-delivery, indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) mechanisms, focusing on high-value, non-commoditized services that require specialized expertise and rigorous performance evaluation. His work supports the agency’s broader mission to advance innovation through evidence-based contracting practices. Lerner cultivates relationships with a diverse range of contractors, including large professional services firms and small businesses specializing in research and technical consulting. While no single vendor dominates his portfolio, he consistently engages firms with demonstrated capability in scientific analysis, policy research, and engineering services. His procurement approach emphasizes performance-based contracting, clear statement of work development, and robust source selection criteria to ensure quality outcomes and accountability. His contracting patterns reflect a strong commitment to small business participation, with 30% of his awards designated as total small business set-asides under FAR 19.5. He prioritizes opportunities for small businesses without favoring specific socioeconomic categories such as 8(a), HUBZone, or SDVOSB, instead focusing on broad-based eligibility under the general small business set-aside framework. This approach supports equitable access while maintaining competition and value. Lerner’s primary procurement focus lies in NAICS 541990 (All Other Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services), followed by 541712 (Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences) and 541720 (Research and Development in the Social Sciences and Humanities). He regularly procures analytical studies, policy evaluations, technical consulting, and experimental research services, demonstrating deep familiarity with the lifecycle of federally funded R&D and the unique contractual requirements of academic and applied research environments.