Senior Contract Specialist

Senior Contract Management / Right-to-Know SpecialistThe Senior Contract Management / Right-to-Know Specialist, under the direction of the County Solicitor, is a hybrid paralegal and administrative position that supports the work of the Legal Department as it relates to contracts and Right-to-Know requests. The Specialist will assist the department in building out its contract management system and streamlining Right-to-Know processes. This position is responsible for tracking workflow related to the negotiation, drafting, review, and finalization of all contracts submitted to the Legal Department for review. Working with senior attorneys, the Specialist interacts with department heads and vendors to assist in the preparation of contracts and necessary appendices, ensuring consistency of form across the practice. The Specialist also works closely with the Right-to-Know Officer and attorneys to help expedite responses to the public, draft communications, prepare draft documents, and assist with appeals.Essential DutiesDevelop and administer the department's contract management system, including tracking milestones and deliverables, and shepherding legally reviewed contracts through finalization.Work closely with attorneys to assist in preparing contracts from standard templates, ensuring consistency in form and compliance with internal policies and practices.Provide paralegal support to attorneys in the areas of contract law, Right-to-Know law, and other substantive areas of law as needed.Regularly communicate with outside counsel, department heads, and vendor representatives.Use relational databases, including JustFOIA and Excel, as well as emerging technology, to automate communications and track deliverables.Strategically assist the Right-to-Know Officer with responses to complex requests.Prepare communications to the public and the Office of Open Records in response to Right-to-Know requests and appeals.Provide additional intake and administrative support to internal attorneys as needed.QualificationsBachelor's degree required.Certificate in Paralegal Studies or equivalent required.Minimum of five (5) years of experience in a legal support role.High proficiency in standard office applications, including word processing, spreadsheets, and presentation software.Familiarity with JustFOIA highly preferred.Experience in a governmental setting and/or with open records law preferred.Excellent organizational and communication skills.Ability to collaborate effectively with diverse colleagues and build positive, respectful, and cooperative relationships across all levels of the organization.The County of Delaware offers a comprehensive benefits package to full-time employees including health care, dental, retirement, life insurance, holidays, vacation, and sick leave.