Contracts Administrator

Contracts Administrator

Louisiana Bridge Builders ("LBB") is designing and building the new I-10 Calcasieu River Bridge in Lake Charles, Louisiana (USA) for the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (LADOTD). LBB will also be responsible for the reconstruction of interstate highway, various structures, ramps, and approaches for a 5.5 mile stretch between I-210 West End and Ryan Street.

Louisiana Bridge Builders offers a competitive salary, relocation assistance where relocation is required and approved, medical, dental, vision, life, short- and long-term disability, paid holidays, vacation, and sick time, and more.

Louisiana Bridge Builders is an equal opportunity employer.

Position Purpose/Summary

The Contracts Administrator is committed to supporting Louisiana Bridge Builders through comprehensive contract and subcontract management, including drafting and negotiating subcontracts, managing claims and disputes with subcontractors, preparing correspondence, and ensuring compliance with company policies and contractual obligations. This role requires a proactive professional with strong technical contract knowledge.

Location

This position is based in Lake Charles, LA.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

1. Assist in drafting, reviewing, and revising contracts, non-disclosure agreements (NDAs), purchase agreements, and service agreements.
2. Manage subcontracts post-award through execution, administration, and closeout in alignment with prime contract requirements.
3. Draft, review, and manage correspondence with subcontractors and other parties, including notices, requests for information, change orders, and formal communications regarding contract performance and compliance.
4. Administer and resolve claims with subcontractors, including analyzing claim documentation, coordinating with project teams and legal counsel, preparing responses, and negotiating settlements.
5. Monitor subcontractor performance, compliance with contract terms, and adherence to project schedules and quality standards, escalating issues as appropriate.
6. Coordinate and manage insurance requirements for subcontractors, including certificate of insurance tracking, compliance verification, and liaison with insurance providers.
7. Review and process subcontractor change orders, ensuring proper documentation, approval workflows, and alignment with prime contract change management procedures.
8. Track key contract milestones, deliverables, and renewal dates to ensure timely action.
9. Support compliance audits by ensuring contracts align with company policies and regulations.
10. Prepare, review, and coordinate progress payment certificates, ensuring alignment with project milestones and contract terms, and collaborate with finance and project teams to verify payment schedules, amounts, and approvals.
11. Maintain accurate records of payments and ensure documentation is audit ready, and maintain organized records of contracts, subcontracts, amendments, and related correspondence in the contract management system.
12. Prepare reports on contract status, upcoming renewals, and risks for management.
13. Work closely with legal, procurement, finance, and project teams to address contract issues and discrepancies, and respond promptly to inquiries from internal and external parties regarding contract terms and obligations.
14. Identify potential risks within contracts and recommend appropriate mitigation strategies and ensure compliance with approval workflows throughout the contract lifecycle.
15. Participate in initiatives to enhance contract management processes and stay up to date with industry best practices, relevant laws, and regulations.
16. Performing all other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Knowledge, Abilities, & Skills for Success

1. Effectively communicate in a positive and professional manner through written and verbal communications in all interfaces with customers/public, fellow employees, vendors, etc.
2. Excellent written communication skills with proven ability to draft clear, professional, and legally sound correspondence and contract documents.
3. Strong understanding of construction contract and subcontract principles, terms, and conditions, with ability to identify and mitigate contractual risks.
4. Demonstrated experience in claims management, including analysis of entitlement, causation, and quantum.
5. Knowledge of construction insurance requirements, including general liability, workers' compensation, professional liability, and builder's risk insurance.
6. Strong negotiation skills with ability to resolve disputes and reach mutually beneficial agreements.
7. Analytical mindset with attention to detail for reviewing complex contract documents and identifying discrepancies or risks.
8. Ability to use appropriate computer programs (including, but not limited to, Microsoft Office Suite) which includes having proficient computer skills and the ability to adapt and learn as programs and processes change.
9. Ability to work as a team member and exert initiative to work independently to reach a goal.
10. Ability to embrace change in the workplace while encouraging others to seek innovative approaches.
11. Ability to function effectively as a team player and collaborator.
12. Ability to work a flexible work schedule, additional and/or different hours, including but not limited to nights, weekends, and/or holidays, as needed, to best serve the business operations.

Qualifications

At a minimum, the Contracts Administrator must have a bachelor's degree in business administration, business management, construction management, or related field of study, along with 3+ years of proven experience in contract and subcontract administration, including claims management and correspondence drafting in the construction industry or a high school diploma, or equivalent, along with 7+ years of proven experience in contract and subcontract administration, including claims management and correspondence drafting in the construction industry. Advanced knowledge and experience managing contracts for bridge, heavy civil, or infrastructure projects and/or a professional certification such as Certified Commercial Contracts Manager (CCCM), Certified Professional Contracts Manager (CPCM), or similar credential is preferred.

Physical Demands

• N (Not Applicable) – Activity is not applicable to this occupation.
• O (Occasionally) – Occupation requires this activity up to 33% of the time or 0 – 2.5+ hours/day.
• F (Frequently) – Occupation requires this activity from 33%–66% of the time or 2.5–5.5+ hours/day.
• C (Constantly) – Occupation requires this activity more than 66% of the time or 5.5+ hours/day.

Louisiana Bridge Builders is an equal opportunity employer.