Contract Administrator job description

a Contracts Administrator with his headphones on talking

What is a contract administrator?

A contract administrator prepares company contracts effectively and efficiently according to the organisation's needs. They must ensure that all aspects of a contract are monitored or managed to protect the interests of their employer and the other party to the contract, which could be another business, individual or group.

They work closely with management to identify areas where contracts can be improved or modified and liaise with legal staff to ensure that all parties adhere to the letter and spirit of the contract.

This role would suit a professional, highly organised individual with strong administration, interpersonal and communication skills.

What are the duties and responsibilities of a contract administrator?

Contract administrators are typically responsible for the following:

Drafting and negotiating contracts that are legally binding between both parties
Establishing contract terms and conditions including service levels, fees and financial obligation
Liaising with external legal practitioners and other departments to ensure deadlines and requirements of the contract are met
Undertaking contract analysis and providing advice to the business
Drafting and revising contracts, which may include:
- Preparing documents for tender
- Negotiating legal agreements with customers or suppliers
- Undertaking research on topics relevant to the industry

Negotiating contract terms with other companies or individuals per legislation
Monitoring and advising on compliance with contractual obligations, including revisions to existing contracts
Communicating changes in the business's legal obligations to individuals within an organisation

What technology is used in contract administration?

Some businesses require their employees to use specialised contract management systems to draft and monitor legal agreements.

A range of advanced technologies are used in this profession, including document management software, legal contract management systems, project management tools and practice management software

What does a Contracts Administrator do on a regular day?

Regular day-to-day activities for a contracts administrator include:

Updating contract management software, including new draft contracts
Arranging contracts with suppliers, customers or other external parties
Sourcing, reviewing and revising documentation according to the needs of business operations
Drafting or revising legal agreements per business requirements
Liaising with external organisations regarding changes to contractual obligations

What are the common requirements in a contract’s administrator JD?

The requirements outlined in a contract manager or contract administrator job description will vary based on the employer and industry. However, some of the typical job requirements include:

Bachelor's degree in business administration
Additional qualifications in law are a plus
Knowledge of legal requirements involved with preparing contracts
Demonstrate ability to draft contracts per the requirements of the business
Strong negotiation and mediation skills
High level of accuracy and attention to detail
Effective communication skills, particularly when liaising with other departments or external organisations such as clients, suppliers and regulators
Ability to work independently or as part of a team
Strong organisational skills
Qualifications related to contract drafting and negotiation

Learn more about Contracts Administrator salaries, skills and qualifications. Ready to start searching for jobs in Australia? Get in touch with your local Hays office today.

Search Contracts Administrator Jobs