Contract Management Specialist

Operations Associate III Pay Rate: $28-$32.75/hour Location: Remote (organization based out of Chicago, IL) 1 year contract with potential for extension and/or permanent placement Weekly pay and healthcare benefits offered! Job Summary The Contract Operations Associate delivers end-to-end execution support across the Research Contract Operations Team, with a critical focus on contract administration responsibilities. The role will primarily be responsible for coordinating contract lifecycle activities, maintaining accurate contract status and metrics trackers, and leading stakeholder communications to ensure timely processing. This position partners closely with Research scientists, Sr. Contract Analysts, Legal, and Senior Business Operations. Principal Responsibilities Contracts & Contract Lifecycle Support · Support the full contract lifecycle from contract intake through execution, including contract submission through execution, contract tracking, and documentation management. · Coordinate and submit contract initiation forms and required documentation into contract management systems (e.g., Coupa, Determine, or equivalent). · Maintain accurate and up-to-date contract trackers and repositories to ensure stakeholder visibility. · Serve as a primary operational contact for internal teams to support communications for contract submission form details and status updates, and facilitate the smooth flow of contract processes. · Support continuous improvement of contracting workflows, trackers, and templates. Decision-Making Authority · Independently prepare and submit contract documentation into approved systems. · Maintain ownership of contract operational trackers, systems, and repositories. Speak to accurate contract status updates, contract blockers/delays, and contract stakeholder communications. Knowledge, Skills & Competencies · Expertise in Contract Lifecycle Management (CLM): Strong experience in contract administration, managing the initiation to execution contract lifecycle. · Attention to Detail: Exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and accuracy in maintaining contracting trackers and metrics · Collaboration Skills: Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with internal teams and partners. · Problem-Solving: and provide proactive, solution-oriented guidance. Problem-solving mindset with the ability to escalate appropriately and provide proactive, solution-oriented suggestions. · Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with contract management software (e.g., CLM systems), document management tools, and proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel). Requirements · Education: Bachelor’s degree in business administration or related field, or equivalent experience. · Experience: Minimum of 5 years of experience in contract operations or end-to-end management, or as a paralegal, preferably in a corporate or law firm environment.