Doing Business with LBNL

Helpful Hints for Vendors

Download it HERE (pdf).

 

...A guide for suppliers

 

The Ernest Orlando Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (Berkeley Lab) is a multidisciplinary, multi-program research laboratory funded by the US Department of Energy and managed by the Regents of the University of California. The Laboratory’s mission is to serve the nation’s scientific and educational communities by providing scientific leadership in the energy, general, computer and bioscience disciplines through research conducted within its unique facilities; making its facilities available to qualified investigators; educate future scientists and engineers; and foster productive relationships with industry. The Laboratory has a budget of over $500 million and employs more than 3000 employees. The Laboratory’s acquisition needs are wide-ranging. Commercial products and services play a primary role in supporting the Laboratory’s programs. Included are computer, scientific, laboratory, construction, electrical, electronic, and fabrication supplies and services. Additionally, architect-engineer, construction, design and other professional services are areas where the Laboratory sources externally

 

Procurement Policy

 

The Laboratory is committed to obtaining high-quality supplies and services, as specified by its customers, in a cost-effective, timely, and compliant manner. Inherent in this philosophy is a dedication to the highest standards of service, conduct, and continuous improvement of our operations. Our goal is to foster a valued and professional partnership with customers, colleagues, and suppliers. It is the policy of the Laboratory to decline gifts and gratuities. To best serve the interest of the Laboratory and our suppliers, this policy prohibits acceptance of gifts, favors, or anything of value from any source that might affect or appear to affect employee judgment in conducting official duties. The Laboratory adheres to the code of ethics of the National Association of Purchasing Management (NAPM).

 

To serve the best interest of the Laboratory, we:

 

  • Strive to obtain the maximum value for each dollar spent.
  • Consider quality, price, and ability to deliver on schedule.
  • Demand honesty in sales representation whether offered through oral or written statements, or advertisement.
  • Regard each transaction on its own merits.
  • Grant all competitive vendors equal consideration.

 

Procurement Methods

 

The Laboratory uses a variety of procurement mechanisms to meet its acquisition needs. Generally, purchases are made by Subcontract Administrators in Procurement who have authority to "buy" for the Laboratory. Acquisitions are generally competed to the maximum extent practicable. However, the Laboratory will, in rare cases, award to a singular vendor where a unique product or service is involved. The Laboratory’ standard purchase terms are Net 30, FOB Destination. To facilitate the order and payment of its suppliers, the Laboratory also utilizes a Procurement Card for some of its purchases. Suppliers are encouraged to provide access to procurement cards.

 

How to Participate

 

At Berkeley Lab, buying responsibilities are organized by commodities within the Procurement Department. Specific questions regarding which type of Subcontract Administrator to contact should be directed to the Procurement Information Desk, (510) 486-4571. You may also obtain this information here on our web site.

 

There are a variety of options available to you in initiating contact with the Laboratory. You can:

 

  • Contact a Subcontract Administrator;
  • Contact an End User within a technical division if referred;
  • Schedule a visit to the Laboratory;
  • Send literature to either Subcontract Administrators or End Users directly;
  • Contact the Laboratory’s Small Business Liaison Officer if you are a Small, Hubzone, Veteran-Owned, Small Disadvantaged or Woman-Owned Business; or
  • All of the above.

 

Because of the volume of individual requisitions, the Laboratory does not maintain a formal bid list. Instead, individual bid lists are developed by Subcontract Administrators tailored to each requirement. It is therefore very important that suppliers maintain constant contact with Subcontract Administrators and End Users to assure they receive maximum exposure and visibility. You will increase your opportunities at receiving an award if you maintain close and constant communications with Lab personnel.

 

If you wish to demonstrate a product or to leave a sample for evaluation, please arrange with a Subcontract Administrator. Vendors must obtain the permission of the Procurement Department before sending or leaving any equipment for evaluation.

 

If you are a Small, Hubzone, Veteran-Owned, Small Disadvantaged or Woman-owned Small Business, also see the Small Business Program page.

 

General Provisions

 

Here is a link to Berkeley Lab General Provisions, which are made a part of subcontracts.