Who has the authority to issue a written order directing a contractor to make a change without prior agreement?

Who has the authority to issue a written order directing a contractor to make a change without prior agreement?

• A. Program Manager
• B. Contracting Officer
• C. Chief Engineer
• D. Legal Counsel

Answer: (B)

Authority to issue a written order directing a contractor to make a change without prior agreement rests with the Contracting Officer. The CO is the official empowered to bind the government to contract modifications, including directing changes in work when necessary, even before price or schedule terms are aligned. This mechanism—often called a change directive or modification—keeps the project moving while the contractual terms are resolved, with the understanding that the contractor can seek an equitable adjustment later if needed. Other roles, such as a Program Manager, Chief Engineer, or Legal Counsel, do not have the authority to unilaterally modify the contract; they can influence or advise, but only the Contracting Officer can authorize changes to the contract terms.

Authority to issue a written order directing a contractor to make a change without prior agreement rests with the Contracting Officer. The CO is the official empowered to bind the government to contract modifications, including directing changes in work when necessary, even before price or schedule terms are aligned. This mechanism—often called a change directive or modification—keeps the project moving while the contractual terms are resolved, with the understanding that the contractor can seek an equitable adjustment later if needed. Other roles, such as a Program Manager, Chief Engineer, or Legal Counsel, do not have the authority to unilaterally modify the contract; they can influence or advise, but only the Contracting Officer can authorize changes to the contract terms.