Contracts Administrator

The Applied Research Laboratory at Penn State University; Ferguson Township (PA); Hybrid; USD 81,000 - 122,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

75% tuition discount

Paid time off

Retirement plans

Job summary

The Applied Research Laboratory at Penn State University is seeking a Contracts Administrator, Senior Professional to review, modify, and negotiate contracts in accordance with university guidelines, and to manage complex, high-volume agreements with diverse stakeholders. The role offers a flexible hybrid work arrangement with on-site presence at least one day per week and reports to the Contract Manager.

Candidates should demonstrate strong communication, self‑management, attention to detail,

Qualifications

• Experience reviewing, modifying, and negotiating contracts.
• Self-management skills and flexibility, including the ability to prioritize among a large number of responsibilities.
• Excellent communication (both verbal and written) and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to work both independently and as a team member, and to multitask and respond professionally in challenging situations.
• Strong attention to detail, strong analytical, and organizational skills.
• Experience using Microsoft Office Suite.

Responsibilities

• Review, modify, and negotiate contracts in accordance with university guidelines.
• Identify contract complexity and elevate as needed; focus on a variety of agreement types.

Skills

Contract review/negotiation

Self-management

Verbal & written communication

Independent & team work

Attention to detail/analysis

Microsoft Office

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

CRM (ServiceNow)

Job description

POSITION SPECIFICS

The Office of Central Procurement seeks a dynamic, hardworking, and highly skilled professional for the job of a Contracts Administrator, Senior Professional. This position will report to the Contract Manager and will perform most work activities in a large volume, fast paced, complex, detailed, and multifaceted environment. Primary responsibilities for this position will be reviewing and successfully negotiating contracts received by Central Procurement in accordance with university guidelines, along with being able to identify the complexity of contracts and elevate as needed. This position will also focus on a variety of other agreement types. This position offers a flexible work arrangement that combines remote and on-campus work. This role requires on-site presence and working in the office at least one day per week. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.

Required Qualifications

• Experience reviewing, modifying, and negotiating contracts
• Self-management skills and flexibility, including the ability to prioritize among a large number of responsibilities
• Excellent communication (both verbal and written) and interpersonal skills
• Proven ability to work both independently and as a team member, and to multitask and respond professionally in challenging situations
• Strong attention to detail, strong analytical, and organizational skills
• Experience using Microsoft Office Suite

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in identifying and resolving contract-related issues by collaborating with key stakeholders within an organization
• Experience with making decisions on contract-related requests from employees based on established University guidelines and protocols
• Experience using customer relationship management software (CRM) such as ServiceNow and learning new software tools

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

Bachelor's Degree 6+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

SALARY & BENEFITS

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $81,312.00 - $122,016.00.

Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being.

• In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time.
• One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive.

We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.

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