Contracting Officer's Technical Representative(COTR)
A government designee who provides technical oversight and accepts deliverables on behalf of the contracting officer, without authority to modify the contract.
Overview
The Contracting Officer's Technical Representative (COTR), also known as the Contracting Officer's Representative (COR), is a government employee appointed by the Contracting Officer to provide technical direction and monitor contractor performance. The COTR serves as the primary day-to-day point of contact between the government and the contractor, but does not have authority to make contractual changes, obligate funds, or modify terms.
Why It Matters in GovCon
The COTR is often the contractor's most frequent government contact. Building a productive working relationship with the COTR is essential for smooth contract execution. However, contractors must understand that the COTR cannot authorize scope changes or additional work — only the Contracting Officer has that authority. Acting on unauthorized COTR direction can create cost and compliance risks.
Key Details
- Appointment: COTRs are formally appointed in writing by the Contracting Officer, with specific duties and limitations defined in the appointment letter.
- Training: FAC-COR certification requires completion of training modules in contract management, ethics, and oversight techniques.
- Authority Limits: Cannot change contract scope, price, delivery schedules, or any other contract terms.
- Responsibilities: Monitors performance, reviews deliverables, approves invoices for technical accuracy, and documents contractor performance.
- Terminology: "COR" (Contracting Officer's Representative) is now the preferred term under current FAR guidance, though COTR remains widely used.
Related Terms
- Contracting Officer (CO)
- Administrative Contracting Officer (ACO)
- Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP)
- Performance Work Statement (PWS)
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