Contracts Specialist

Posting Details

Position Information


Fiscal Year
2026-2027


Position Title
Contracts Specialist


Classification Title
Sponsored Programs Associate I


Department
Sponsored Projects Services


Posting Number
R260109


Posting Link




Employer
Research Foundation


Position Type
RF Professional


Job Type
Full-Time


Appointment Term

Salary Grade
E.3

Posting Detail Information


Position Summary

Sponsored Projects Services (SPS) within the Office of Research, Innovation and Economic Development at the State University of New York at Buffalo is seeking a Contracts Specialist. The Contracts Specialist is an entry-level position responsible for administering, drafting, reviewing, and negotiating simple agreements in support of sponsored research activity at the University at Buffalo.

This role is designed to ensure compliance with institutional policies, Research Foundation guidelines, and applicable laws, while providing crucial support for sponsored research contracts. The Contracts Specialist will work under supervision but is expected to develop proficiency in handling a variety of routine contracts and agreements. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals looking to begin or further develop their career in research contract administration.

Key Responsibilities:

• Administer and Draft Contracts: Assist in the preparation, review, and negotiation of simple agreements, including sponsored research agreements, non-disclosure agreements (NDAs), and material transfer agreements (MTAs).
• Compliance and Policy Adherence: Ensure that all agreements comply with University, Research Foundation, and sponsor policies, as well as applicable legal and regulatory requirements.
• Collaboration and Communication: Work closely with faculty, department administrators, legal counsel, and external sponsors to gather necessary information and facilitate contract execution.
• Risk Assessment and Issue Resolution: Identify potential risks and issues in contracts and provide recommendations for resolution or mitigation strategies.
• Support Research Activity: Assist in the processing and management of contracts that support sponsored research initiatives at the University, ensuring timely and accurate contract handling.
• Document Management: Maintain accurate records of all contracts and related documentation, ensuring that proper approval processes are followed and documented.

Learn more:

• Our benefits , where we prioritize your well-being and success to enhance every aspect of your life.
• Being a part of the University at Buffalo community.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related field and 2 years' experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple contracts and projects simultaneously.
• Familiarity with basic legal principles and contract language, with a willingness to learn specific institutional and sponsor policies.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to interact professionally with internal and external stakeholders.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a team and contribute to the overall efficiency of the office.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in contract administration, especially within higher education or research environments.
• Familiarity with sponsored research agreements or university administration is a plus.

Our University Community

Physical Demands

Driving Requirements
This position will never drive a university owned vehicle.


Salary Range
$63,000 - $68,000


Additional Salary Information
The salary range reflects our good faith and reasonable estimate of the possible compensation at the time of posting, the role and associated responsibilities, and the experience, education, and training of the selected candidate.


Work Hours


37.5 hours per week

Campus
North Campus


Posting Alerts

Special Instructions Summary

Is a background check required for this posting?
No


Background Check Notification

Contact Information


Contact's Name
Stacey Brown


Contact's Pronouns
she/her


Contact's Title
HR Specialist


Contact's Email
View email address on click.appcast.io


Contact's Phone
View phone number on click.appcast.io

Posting Dates


Posted
07/17/2026


Deadline for applicants
Open Until Filled


Date to be filled

References


Number of references required
3


Reference Cutoff Date

Instructions to Applicant