DESCRIPTION
We are seeking a Contracts Manager to join a team focused on advanced composites design, manufacturing, technical innovation, and workforce solutions. This mostly remote position is based at the corporate headquarters in Knoxville, TN, with quarterly travel required. This role involves supporting large and complex projects under the Department of Defense and other government contracts. The position will focus on sub-recipient contract administration and requires strong contract management skills, effective communication, a deep understanding of subcontractor budgets, and relevant government contracting experience.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Coordinate multiple project partners to compile required inputs (budget, statement of work, points of contact, etc.) and draft sub-award project agreements
- Collaborate with legal counsel and program management to negotiate sub-recipient agreements with appropriate DOD or DOE flow-down terms and conditions, including amendments
- Ensure cost allowability and compliance with cooperative agreement terms, Federal OMB Uniform Guidance regulations, and organizational policies
- Engage proactively with stakeholders across various states, including administrative and technical points of contact for sub-recipients
- Collaborate with the Workforce Development team on subcontracting needs and prioritization
- Lead team meetings as needed and provide updates at project and staff meetings
- Use partner budgets to prepare Excel-based budget summaries for contracts
- Evaluate and negotiate redlined contracts, ensuring compliance and proposing alternative language when necessary
- Consult legal counsel as needed
- Apply legal knowledge relevant to nonprofit entities for documents required in projects and proposals
- Manage contracts related to facilities, operations, and tenant leases, including facility use agreements
- Research legal concepts applicable to headquarters operations, projects, and proposals
- Interpret flow-down requirements mandated by funding sponsors
- Assist with special projects and ad hoc information requests as needed
- Perform additional duties as assigned
QUALIFICATIONS
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in business, pre-law, contract management, or a related field preferred; Juris Doctor is a plus
- Experience:
- Four years of post-award sponsored grants and subcontracts administration experience, ideally at a research university or government contractor
- Five or more years of experience negotiating contracts and agreements
- Certified Research Administrator, Certified Federal Contract Manager, or Certified Professional Contract Manager certification preferred
- Knowledge of Federal OMB Uniform Guidance, Federal Acquisition Regulations, DOE/DOD or other federal cooperative agreements
- Proficiency with Excel, Teams, Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint
Preferred
- Knowledge of research administration, financial management, and regulatory compliance in research administration
- Business entity or nonprofit law knowledge preferred
- Strong organizational and problem-solving skills
- Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment and meet constant deadlines
- Strong communication skills, including active listening and customer service abilities
- High level of confidentiality regarding contracts, financials, personnel, and privileged documents
BENEFITS
- Comprehensive benefits package, including 401(k), medical, dental, vision, term life, AD&D, short-term disability, and long-term disability insurance
- Generous paid time off and flexible work arrangements
- Professional development opportunities
