Contract Specialist

Contract Specialist Job Description

About the Role:
As a Contract Specialist, you will manage the full contract lifecycle - from research and drafting to negotiation, review, and compliance assurance. Your expertise will ensure the university's contractual agreements are favorable, legally sound, and compliant with state and federal regulations. This role requires a strategic thinker with strong analytical, negotiation, and communication skills, committed to safeguarding the university's interests and fostering strong stakeholder relationships.

Key Responsibilities:

• Contract Development & Negotiation: Draft, review, and negotiate a variety of contracts and amendments. Collaborate with legal and internal departments to secure necessary approvals, ensuring all terms are clear, fair, and compliant.
• Regulatory Compliance: Maintain up-to-date knowledge of university, state, and federal procurement laws and policies. Ensure all contracts adhere to applicable guidelines, mitigating risk for the institution.
• Contract Lifecycle & Records Management: Oversee contract documentation, monitor critical dates for renewals and expirations, and ensure accurate and accessible records within the university's contract management systems.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Serve as the primary contact for internal departments and external partners, providing guidance, resolving issues, and ensuring contract obligations are met efficiently.
• Continuous Improvement: Lead training sessions for staff on contract policies, participate in policy development, and support audit processes to enhance contracting practices.
• Additional Duties: Support loading or unloading activities during events, and perform other responsibilities as assigned, including overtime when necessary.

Qualifications:
Required:

• 2-5+ years of proven experience in contracting, procurement, or related administrative roles. Equivalent education may substitute for experience on a one-to-one basis.
• Exceptional written communication skills, with the ability to produce clear, precise documents and correspondence.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel); familiarity with contract management software is advantageous.
• Demonstrated professionalism, ethical judgment, and a commitment to integrity.
• Strong analytical skills to interpret complex information and apply it effectively.
• Ability to multitask, prioritize, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Attention to detail in report creation and contract analysis.
• Physical ability to perform sedentary tasks and occasional lifting of up to 10 lbs., with excellent visual acuity for data review.

Preferred:

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Public Administration, Finance, Law, Economics, or related fields.
• Knowledge of higher education procurement processes, State and Federal regulations, and contract law.
• Experience with Jaggaer Contracts Plus (formerly SciQuest), SAP, or other ERP systems.
• Certification as a Texas Contract Developer (CTCD) within six months of hire.

Why join us?

• Outstanding Benefits: Comprehensive health insurance starting on day one, generous paid time off, wellness programs, and family-friendly resources.
• Career Development: Access to ongoing training, certifications, and educational benefit programs.
• Supportive Community: Join a vibrant campus environment with networking opportunities and a collaborative culture.
• Financial Security: Robust retirement plans, including TRS pension benefits, and voluntary savings programs.

Work Environment:
This is an on-site position based in San Marcos, TX with typical hours from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday. Flexibility for occasional evening or weekend duties may be required.

Embark on a fulfilling career where your expertise directly impacts our educational community and future generations. Apply today to become an integral part of the team!

The Midtown Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. We are a small, woman-owned business certified by the Women's Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC). Operating from our headquarters in Washington, DC, we provide trusted staffing services nationwide. Our clients include thousands of the most prestigious Fortune 500 companies, law firms, financial organizations, tech innovators, non-profits, and lobbying firms, as well as federal, state and local government agencies.