Contract Officer

South Carolina State University; Orangeburg (SC); On-site; USD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

South Carolina State University in Orangeburg, SC, seeks a detail-oriented Contract Officer to manage the complete lifecycle of sponsored program contracts and agreements. This full-time role works with faculty researchers, sponsors, and internal teams to ensure compliant contracting.

Responsibilities include negotiating contracts, upholding CFR/OMB guidelines, and maintaining records. The position strengthens research initiatives and university operations within a dynamic, collaborative

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree preferred.
• 2+ years' experience in contract administration or grants management.
• Strong analytical, communication, and negotiation skills.
• Knowledge of federal research regulations (CFR, OMB guidelines) preferred.
• Proficiency in contract management systems and Microsoft Office Suite.

Responsibilities

• Review, negotiate, and execute research contracts, grants, and cooperative agreements.
• Ensure compliance with sponsor terms, university policies, and regulatory requirements.
• Provide guidance to faculty and staff on contractual matters and policies.
• Maintain accurate records and prepare detailed reports for administration.
• Coordinate with legal counsel, finance, and other departments as needed.

Skills

Contract administration

Grants management

Negotiation skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Regulatory knowledge CFR/OMB

Education

Bachelor's degree

Advanced degree preferred

Tools

Contract management systems

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

South Carolina State University seeks a detail-oriented Contract Officer to join our Associate Provost Sponsored Programs team in Orangeburg, SC. This exciting full-time position offers the opportunity to play a vital role in advancing research excellence at a premier HBCU.

What You'll Do

As our Contract Officer, you'll manage the complete lifecycle of sponsored program contracts and agreements, from initial negotiations through award closeout. You'll collaborate with faculty researchers, external sponsors, and internal stakeholders to ensure compliance with federal, state, and institutional requirements. Your expertise will directly support groundbreaking research initiatives that impact our community and beyond.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Review, negotiate, and execute research contracts, grants, and cooperative agreements
• Ensure compliance with sponsor terms, university policies, and regulatory requirements
• Provide guidance to faculty and staff on contractual matters and sponsored program policies
• Maintain accurate records and prepare detailed reports for administration
• Coordinate with legal counsel, finance, and other departments as needed

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree preferred
• 2+ years' experience in contract administration, grants management, or related fieldStrong analytical, communication, and negotiation skills
• Knowledge of federal research regulations (CFR, OMB guidelines) preferred
• Proficiency in contract management systems and Microsoft Office Suite

Why Choose SC State?

Join a historic institution committed to academic excellence and community impact. We offer competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, professional development opportunities, and a collaborative work environment that values diversity and innovation.

Located in beautiful Orangeburg, you'll enjoy small-town charm with easy access to Columbia and Charleston.

South Carolina State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer