Lead Contract Manager

Lumen is the trusted network for the AI‑powered world, connecting people, data, and applications through our expansive fiber network and connected ecosystem. We enable secure, high‑performance connectivity across cloud, edge, and AI workloads for enterprises, governments, and communities. At Lumen, you’ll work on infrastructure customers rely on today and build for what’s next, where performance, security, and resilience matter. This is a high accountability environment where bold ideas drive real innovation for our customers, partners, and industry. The work is challenging, expectations are clear, and trust is built into how we operate. If you’re ready to take ownership, deliver meaningful impact, and help shape the future of AI‑ready connectivity, join us today. The Role The Lead Contract Manager is responsible for negotiating and acquiring various 3rd Party Fiber/Conduit Agreements related to the Company’s fiber‑optic network across North America. They are responsible for managing numerous negotiations simultaneously as well as developing and delivering progress reports and various metrics for the Network Infrastructure Services department within Carrier Relations. The Lead Contract Manager will also be responsible for mentoring other members of the Contract Acquisition team, ensuring compliance with process, and being the first point of escalation within the team for any questions or issues. The position requires experience and knowledge of contract negotiations, telecom network planning, project management, and the ability to manage multiple projects with competing priorities. The ideal candidate is detail oriented, a skilled negotiator, excellent communicator, a strong project leader, and has the desire to work in a fast‑paced high‑pressure environment in support of the procuring of telecom services. The Main Responsibilities Acts as OSP project manager for assigned construction projects within the Contract Manager’s area. Acts as primary lead for the negotiation and acquisition of infrastructure contracts such as dark fiber agreements, conduit agreements, and splicing orders with third‑party providers. Coordinates delivery, acceptance, and integration of infrastructure components with other functional groups. Forecasts and manages expenditures related to infrastructure contracts and tracks impact to network expense, operating expense and capital expense budgets. In cooperation with other functional groups, develops projects related to network expansion that require third‑party asset acquisition. Obtains quotes and provides estimated costs of various infrastructure components to projects related to building additions or network expansion/integration projects. Provides infrastructure related expertise as a subject matter expert as needed by the company. Provides support and expertise for post‑execution management of various infrastructure agreements to include assembling contract deliverables, proper entry of related data into company tracking and financial databases, payment and analysis of invoices, etc. Mentors, trains, and provides direction to other Contract Managers on the team. What We Look For in a Candidate 5‑7 years experience in Project Management OSP with large customer exposure. A minimum of three years of related experience in a Telecom contract management position with high degree of responsibility. Contract drafting experience, negotiation skills, and knowledge of contract terms and/or paralegal certification. Excellent written and executive oral communication skills. Ability to summarize key contract issues. A team player with excellent interpersonal skills. Candidate must be comfortable working in a fast‑paced environment with tight deadlines. Strong computer skills — proficient with MS Office (Word, Excel), Microsoft Outlook, MS Teams, GIS based mapping tools, and various other multi‑media equipment. Experience in telecom outside plant design and/or construction, or network planning is preferred. Additional experience in business management, financial management or the legal field is preferred. Compensation This information reflects the anticipated base salary range for this position based on current national data. Minimums and maximums may vary by location. Individual pay is based on skills, experience, and other relevant factors. Location Based Pay Ranges: $105,786 - $141,047 — AL AR AZ FL GA IA ID IN KS KY LA ME MO MS MT ND NE NM OH OK PA SC SD TN UT VT WI WV WY $111,074 - $148,099 — CO HI MI MN NC NH NV OR RI $116,364 - $155,152 — AK CA CT DC DE IL MA MD NJ NY TX VA WA Lumen offers a comprehensive package featuring a broad range of Health, Life, Voluntary Lifestyle benefits and other perks that enhance your physical, mental, emotional and financial wellbeing. Equal Employment Opportunities We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all persons regardless of race, color, ancestry, citizenship, national origin, religion, veteran status, disability, genetic characteristic or information, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, family status, pregnancy, or other legally protected status (collectively, “protected statuses”). We do not tolerate unlawful discrimination in any employment decisions, including recruiting, hiring, compensation, promotion, benefits, discipline, termination, job assignments or training. #J-18808-Ljbffr