Contracting Officer's Representative (COR)

Definition

A Contracting Officer's Representative (COR) is a trained and appointed government employee who monitors contractor performance on behalf of the Contracting Officer. The COR cannot change contract terms, direct additional work outside scope, or authorize cost increases. They accept deliverables, review invoices for technical accuracy, document surveillance under the QASP, and provide input to CPARS. COR appointments are in writing and specify the scope of their delegated authority.

Why It Matters

The COR is your most frequent government contact and the primary source of inputs into your CPARS rating. Establishing a disciplined cadence — status meetings, written deliverable submissions, invoice pre-reviews — transforms the COR from a source of friction into a contract champion. At the same time, the contractor must resist scope creep from well-meaning CORs; directions that affect cost, schedule, or requirements belong with the Contracting Officer.

Example

A COR on a facilities services contract asks the contractor to add monthly pest control inspections. The contractor documents that the request is out of scope and asks the COR to coordinate with the CO. A modification is processed, adding $28K per year and extending scope formally.

Related Terms