The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff “for fit” makes significant contributions to Howard University’s overall mission.

At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth.

Here Is What We Offer

• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support
• Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements
• Financial Wellness: Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match
• Professional Development: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths
• Additional Perks: Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture
  
  

Join Howard University and thrive with us!

https://hr.howard.edu/benefits-wellness

Basic Function

The purpose of the Contracts Administrator position is to coordinate, facilitate, develop and monitor contract proposals and agreements from intake to execution for the University. The Contract Administrator will be assigned to a specific business unit, or group of business units, to organize and coordinate that groups’ contract request process. The Contract Administrator, with the oversight and collaboration of the Office of the General Counsel (OGC), assists in preparing, processing and negotiating standard business contracts, as well as sponsored research contracts, subcontracts and other transactional agreements, and will work with their assigned business units to increase the utilization of standard University contract templates. The incumbent works with the Office of the General Counsel to ensure that contracts are compliant with applicable University policies and applicable federal and local laws and regulations.

Supervisory Authority

NONE.

Principal Accountabilities

• Works closely with, and provides guidance to, their assigned University business units’ administrative personnel who customarily compile and submit contracts on behalf of their units.
• Becomes and remains expert with University standard operating procedures (SOP), including specifically the Contracting Process SOP.
• Understands all Office of the General Counsel contract templates, their purposes and how they are to be used; and assists business units in proper utilization of templates from initial contact with prospective vendors seeking business with the University.
• Stewards contract initiation to increase the accuracy of development of contract business terms as articulated by University stakeholders and matched to the University’s expectation of exceptional vendor performance.
• Maintains a regular weekly/monthly cadence of meetings with business units for at least the first six months to initiate the working relationship and develop an understanding of the business units’ roles and the Contract Administrators’ roles, and then meets as needed to trouble shoot problems as they arise.
• Collaborates and works closely with central administration, including the Office of Procurement and Contracting, the Sponsored Programs Office and the Office of the General Counsel, in the performance of contract-related tasks.
• Interacts with the Office of Procurement as part of the contract submission process.
• Efficiently processes contract requests to ensure timely submission for processing by the Office of Procurement or the Sponsored Programs Office and legal review by the Office of the General Counsel.
• Prepares complex reports, spreadsheets, forms or research as instructed.
• Coordinates with staff regarding procedures, pertinent developments, account status and alternatives for various contract matters.
• Maintains an electronic database of frequently used or approved contract language/provisions that protect the University, and reference information that is helpful to your job.
• Assists with notices of early contract termination upon request.
• Protects operations by keeping information confidential.
• Performs other related duties as assigned by the Office of the General Counsel.
  
  

Core Competencies

• Demonstrated knowledge of issues pertaining to contract intake, ability to read and comprehend contracts of various types, understands basic contracts principles, negotiation, basic drafting, and template completion.
• A working understanding of best business practices, organizational practices, contract practices, and procurement processes generally.
• An ability to convincingly propose acceptance of University contracting objectives and requirements to the vendors and other University business partners as a desirable means to the mutual objective of contract completion and as a “win/win” proposition.
• A keen ability to spot issues early in the process that require escalation to the Office of the General Counsel to avoid unnecessary delays.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Ability to vigorously enforce compliance with standard operating procedures and other rules with regard to the contracting process, and to communicate the same to the assigned business units.
• Ability to organize self and others around deadlines and timetables.
• Ability to be a supportive and productive team member.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality of sensitive institutional data.
• Ability to perform multiple and varied tasks independently.
• Ability to communicate effectively and professionally with internal stakeholders as well as with professionals representing University vendors and other contracting parties.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective and harmonious work relations with faculty, staff, University officials and the general public.
  
  

Minimum Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration or a related field of study or an equivalent combination of relevant experience and training. Possession of a Certified Professional Contracts Manager (CPCM), Certified Federal Contracts Manager (CFCM), or a Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM). Certification is preferred but can be extenuated by sufficient relevant experience. Prefer 3+ years of prior experience as a contract administrator or a combination of experience as a contract specialist and contract administrator. Some experience with the Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR/DFAR) is desirable. Experience with ERP systems (PeopleSoft, Lawson, Oracle, Ariba, PASS, etc.) and/or Contract Management Systems is a plus. Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Compliance Salary Range Disclosure

Expected Salary Range: $100,000 - $110, 000