Contracts Specialist

Overview The ideal candidate for the Contract Specialist/Paralegal position is a detail-oriented professional with strong organizational and negotiation skills who can manage contracts with accuracy and efficiency. This is a collaborative team member who communicates effectively and confidently assesses contracts for both business and legal considerations. This individual is proactive, adaptable, and continually seeks opportunities to improve processes for efficiency. The Contract Specialist/Paralegal will provide contract management support for the various types of transactions entered by the University, including but not limited to purchasing, sales, software, facility use agreements, and sponsorship agreements. The position includes maintaining contract templates, promoting use of those templates, and reviewing and negotiating non-standard contracts in collaboration with two Senior Paralegals and nine attorneys. The Contract Specialist/Paralegal will be part of the Transactions Group in the Office of the General Counsel, which represents and advises academic departments and administrative units throughout the University’s five-campus system in entering into and performing commercial transactions and educational affiliations. Duties and Responsibilities Under the immediate direction of the Director of the Transactions Group and under the close supervision of one or more attorneys in OGC, the successful candidate will: Coordinate the review of contracts and ensure all necessary information is received prior to OGC review (30%) Analyze legal issues and edit legal documents for a wide range of commercial transactions with minimal supervision, including (30%): Purchase and sale of goods and services Facility use agreements Sponsorship agreements Liability releases Non-disclosure agreements Facilitate negotiation and follow up with external entities or University units (10%) Organize large quantities of information to ensure consistency and efficiency of the transactions team, identify and develop solutions to improve tracking for the Transactions Group (10%) Assist attorneys with drafting templates (10%) Perform other duties as assigned by the General Counsel, the Transactions Group Director, or an attorney in OGC (10%) Qualifications Required Qualifications Associate or higher degree or paralegal certification from an ABA-approved institution or the Minnesota Paralegal Association plus 4 years of experience. A combination of related education and work experience equal to at least six (6) years in contract negotiation, drafting, and/or project management Desired Abilities/Skills/Knowledge The ability to communicate clearly, concisely, and accurately, both verbally and in writing Strong attention to detail Outstanding analytical and interpersonal skills and cross-cultural competencies Highest level of integrity and professionalism An ability to independently manage and prioritize work The desire to work collegially and professionally in a diverse environment within OGC and the broader university Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite and Google Workspace applications, including Word, Excel, GMail and Google Drive Experience using an electronic document management system Pay and Benefits Pay Range: $76,461 to $92,019 annually; depending on education/qualifications/experience Time Appointment: 100% Appointment Position Type : Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor Represented Staff The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes: Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts University HSA contributions Disability and employer-paid life insurance Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates will be based on their individual credentials and experience. Diversity The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds. The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: Employment Requirements Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment. About University of Minnesota The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC) The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations. At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023, 2025, 2026), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility. #J-18808-Ljbffr University of Minnesota