The Port of Vancouver utilizes two approaches for A/E consultant selection based on estimated project cost, as described in RCW 39.80 for the procurement of architectural services, land surveying services or engineering services.

A/E On-Call Roster: Projects < $100,000
For projects under $100,000, interested consultants may apply to be on the A/E Consultant On-Call Roster at any time as the roster remains open throughout the year. 

• Categories are identified in the Port’s eBid system which is used to record A/E consultant applicants.
• Consultants select each category desired representing their field of expertise.
• To be approved for inclusion on a consultant roster, the applicant must fill out the Phase II portion of the SF 330 Form and adequately document the firm's experience and competence in performing the scope of work within that service category.
• Port staff will review and confirm qualifications.
• Applicants are to maintain updated information annually to remain current and eligible for selection. 
• Qualifications for placement on the roster include licensing, experience and financial stability.
• Selection is made by interviewing three or more consultants to determine most capable A/E. Sometimes proposals are required as part of the selection/evaluation process

Formal RFP Solicitation Process: Project > $100,000

• Formal competitive solicitation procedures utilized
• Advertisement is made in the Vancouver Columbian, Portland Oregon Daily Journal of Commerce and the Seattle Daily Journal of Commerce
• Request for Proposals, (RFP) is issued
• The Port will evaluate and score all proposals.
• Selection made to determine the top three firms for interview. Final selection is made for negotiation of contract.
• In the event an agreement is not reached on price, the port will move to the next most qualified finalist for negotiation
  

The Port of Vancouver encourages disadvantaged, minority, and women-owned consultant firms to respond. The Recipient, in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, 78 Stat. 252, 42 U.S.C. 2000d to 2000d-4 and Title 49, Code of Federal Regulations, Department of Transportation, Subtitle A, Office of the Secretary, Part 21, Nondiscrimination in Federally-assisted programs of the Department of Transportation issued pursuant to such Act, hereby notifies all bidders that it will affirmatively ensure that in any contract entered into pursuant to this advertisement, disadvantaged business enterprises as defined at 49 CFR Part 23 will be afforded full opportunity to submit bids in response to this invitation and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of race, color, national origin, or sex in consideration for an award.

Click here to access the e-bid system.