Contract Manager

Connect Search, LLC; Galveston (TX); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Connect Search, LLC is seeking a Contract Manager to support a leading marine construction and dredging company in Texas. You will manage the full contract lifecycle from scope and scheduling to execution, amendments, and renewals, coordinating withSales, Project Management, Operations, Accounting, and Risk Management.

The ideal candidate brings 5+ years in contract negotiation with a background in construction or dredging/marine industries, and a demonstrated ability to minimize risk while

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Law, Finance, or related field.
• 3+ years of experience in the construction industry.
• 3+ years of experience in the dredging and/or maritime industry.
• 5+ years of contract negotiation experience preferred.
• Strong contract review, negotiation, and risk assessment skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage the contracting process from initial fact-checking through final execution or termination.
• Review, redline, and negotiate customer contracts within company guidelines.
• Prepare contracts for subcontractors, vendors, and third parties.
• Manage master service agreements, project subcontracts, and charter agreements.
• Assist with resolution of contract-related disputes, claims, and issues.
• Collaborate with project teams to address requirements before issues or change orders.
• Ensure insurance requirements address risks with vendors and subcontractors.
• Maintain timely contract status updates to stakeholders.
• Analyze solicitations to ensure compliance with laws and policies.
• Develop negotiation strategies for complex commercial matters.

Skills

Contract negotiation

Risk assessment

Communication

Organization

Independent work

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Law, Finance, or related field

Job description

Our client, a leading company in the marine construction and dredging industry, is seeking an experienced Contract Manager to join their team. This is an excellent opportunity for a contracts professional with experience in construction, dredging, maritime, or related industries to take on a key role supporting complex projects and business operations.

The Contract Manager will be responsible for managing the full contract lifecycle, including preparation, review, negotiation, execution, administration, renewals, amendments, extensions, and terminations. This position will work closely with Sales, Project Management, Operations, Accounting, Risk Management, and other internal teams to ensure contracts support business objectives while effectively managing contractual and commercial risk.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the contracting process from initial fact-checking—including scope, schedule, pricing, and payment status—through final execution and/or termination.
• Review, redline, and negotiate customer contracts and other agreements within established company guidelines.
• Review and prepare contracts and related documents for subcontractors, vendors, suppliers, and other third-party entities.
• Manage master service agreements, project subcontracts, customer agreements, and charter agreements, including manned and bareboat charters.
• Assist with the resolution of contract-related disputes, claims, and other contractual issues.
• Partner with project teams to proactively manage active contracts and develop strategies to address contractual requirements before issues or change orders arise.
• Collaborate with Risk Management to ensure company and customer insurance requirements appropriately address risks associated with vendors, suppliers, subcontractors, and other third parties.
• Maintain regular communication with internal stakeholders and provide timely updates regarding contract status, obligations, deadlines, and potential concerns.
• Review and analyze complex or unique contract solicitations, special provisions, terms, and conditions to ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and company policies.
• Develop negotiation strategies and participate in negotiations involving complex contractual and commercial matters.
• Monitor changes in laws, regulations, industry practices, and contract trends and evaluate their potential impact on the organization.
• Provide guidance to various business departments regarding contractual requirements, company objectives, and risk considerations.
• Develop and implement contract policies, procedures, and processes to improve consistency and efficiency.
• Prepare and coordinate contract correspondence and documentation to ensure timely and accurate submittals.
• Maintain accurate, organized contract records and files documenting contract performance, compliance, amendments, renewals, and related activities.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Law, Finance, or a related field.
• 3+ years of experience in the construction industry.
• 3+ years of experience in the dredging and/or maritime industry.
• 5+ years of contract negotiation experience preferred.
• Strong understanding of business and financial concepts, including profit and loss implications.
• Strong contract review, negotiation, and risk assessment skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and exercise sound business judgment.

Ideal Candidate

Our client is looking for a proactive, business-minded contracts professional who understands the operational and financial impact of contractual decisions. The ideal candidate will be comfortable working directly with project teams and business leaders, negotiating with customers and vendors, identifying potential risks, and developing practical solutions to complex contractual issues.

Experience in marine construction, dredging, vessel chartering, maritime operations, or heavy civil construction is highly valued.

Why Consider This Opportunity?

This position offers the opportunity to join an established organization and have a meaningful impact on contract strategy, project execution, risk management, and overall business performance. The Contract Manager will serve as an important partner to both operational and corporate teams and will have the opportunity to influence contracting processes and best practices across the organization.