Contract Manager (Oil & Gas)

Wtsenergy; Dubai; On-site; AED 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading Oil & Gas company in Dubai is seeking a Contract Manager to oversee negotiations and administration of subcontracts throughout project lifecycles. The ideal candidate will have over 10 years of experience in contract engineering, strong negotiation skills, and a solid understanding of contract law. This role is essential for ensuring contractual obligations are met and company interests are safeguarded. Competitive compensation and professional development opportunities are available.

Qualifications

• 10+ years in contract or subcontract engineering roles in Oil & Gas or EPC.
• Solid understanding of contract law and subcontracting strategies.
• Experience with standard forms of contract like FIDIC and LOGIC.

Responsibilities

• Define contract strategies aligned with project objectives.
• Lead contractual negotiations with bidders during the ITT process.
• Supervise subcontractor performance and compliance.
• Oversee contract execution and monitor obligations.
• Lead assessment of variations and claims.
• Identify contractual risks and ensure compliance.
• Interface with teams on contractual matters.
• Prepare reports on contract status and risks.
• Mentor Subcontract Engineers and junior staff.

Skills

Negotiation skills

Analytical skills

Contract law understanding

Communication skills

Tools

Contract management software

MS Office

Job description

Job Description

CONTRACT MANAGER (Oil & Gas)

Reports to: Contracts, Procurement & Supply Chain Manager

The Contract Manager is responsible for managing negotiations and administration of subcontracts throughout the lifecycle of Company projects in the Middle East. This role ensures that Company interests are protected both commercially and contractually through thoroughly negotiated agreements and that subcontractors fulfill their technical, commercial, and contractual obligations to support project delivery within schedule, cost, and quality constraints.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Contract Strategy & Structuring

Define the contract strategy aligned with project execution objectives. Advise project teams on the optimal contract model (lump sum, re-measurable, reimbursable, etc.). Structure and negotiate key commercial and legal terms in collaboration with Legal and Finance teams.

2. Tendering & Award Support

Lead contractual negotiations with bidders during the ITT process. Assist Purchasing Officers in negotiating Payment Milestones, Bank Guarantees, and other commercial aspects. Review and approve bid evaluation reports and contract award recommendations.

3. Subcontractor Management Oversight

Supervise the performance of the Subcontract Engineer. Ensure consistency and compliance in subcontract administration. Provide guidance on managing contractor claims, variations, and obligations.

4. Contract Administration & Execution

Oversee contract execution, ensuring proper implementation of contractual terms. Monitor contractor obligations, milestone achievements, and performance indicators. Coordinate with project controls to track deliverables, payment schedules, and deadlines.

5. Change & Claims Management

Lead assessment and negotiation of variations, extensions of time, and claims. Maintain a register of changes and ensure proper documentation and approval of change orders. Support dispute avoidance and resolution.

6. Risk & Compliance Monitoring

Identify and mitigate contractual and commercial risks throughout the contract lifecycle. Ensure compliance with corporate policies (e.g., Code of Conduct, Ethics, Anti-Corruption, HSE standards). Liaise with legal, tax, and insurance departments as needed.

7. Stakeholder Coordination

Interface with project management, procurement, cost control, and legal teams. Represent the company in client or partner contract reviews and audits. Coordinate with suppliers and clients on contractual matters affecting progress or performance.

8. Reporting & Documentation

Prepare periodic reports on contract status, key risks, claims, and commercial exposure. Ensure all correspondence and contract files are well documented and traceable. Maintain up-to-date contract databases and trackers.

9. Team Mentoring & Development

Guide and develop Subcontract Engineers and junior staff. Promote good contract management practices across teams.

REQUIREMENTS:

• At least 10 years of experience in contract or subcontract engineering roles within the Oil & Gas or EPC industry.
• Solid understanding of contract law, subcontracting strategies, and claims management.
• Strong negotiation, analytical, and communication skills.
• Experience with standard forms of contract (FIDIC, LOGIC, etc.) and bespoke agreements.
• Proficiency in contract management software and MS Office.
• Knowledge of procurement, cost control, and project execution principles.
• Location: Dubai, UAE

Required Experience: Manager