Contract Engineering Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

Job Title: Contract Manager/ Project Controls

The Contract Manager/ Project Controls is a critical role responsible for the financial, contractual, and operational integrity of projects from inception through close-out. This individual will serve as the primary interface between project management, legal, procurement, finance, and external parties, ensuring that all contractual obligations are met, project performance is closely monitored, and risks are proactively identified and mitigated. Outlined are the expectations below:

Responsibilities:

Contract Management

• Assist with the full contract lifecycle: drafting, negotiation, execution, administration, and close contracts with clients, subcontractors, vendors, and suppliers.

• Review, interpret, and communicate contract terms and conditions to internal stakeholders; identify and flag commercial risks, ambiguities, or non-standard clauses requiring escalation.

• Monitor contractor and vendor compliance with contractual obligations; track deliverables, milestones, payment terms, and performance guarantees.

• Manage contract variations, claims, and disputes; lead person for preparing and evaluating change order requests, ensuring proper documentation and approvals are in accordance with contract requirements.

• Administer notice provisions and correspondence requirements under contracts; maintain an organized contract repository and audit trail for all contractual communications.

• Coordinate with legal counsel on complex contract matters, claims preparation, dispute resolution, and litigation support as required.

• Support procurement activities by developing contract templates, evaluating bid packages, and reviewing subcontractor proposals for commercial compliance.

• Ensure contract close-out obligations are fulfilled, including release of liens, final invoicing, performance certifications, and retention releases.

Project Controls

• Develop and maintain project schedules, including baseline, progress, and specialty schedules. Track milestones, analyze deviations, and recommend recovery plans to ensure timely project completion

• Track project progress, identify project risks and opportunities, develop mitigation plans, and manage change requests. Ensure project documentation is accurate and up to date

• Collect and analyze project performance data, including earned value, productivity, and schedule adherence. Prepare detailed reports for management, clients, and stakeholders

• Liaise with project teams, finance, procurement, and external vendors to ensure alignment with project objectives. Facilitate smooth communication across departments and stakeholders

• Implement and maintain project control processes and adherence to company policies, project control procedures, and industry standards. Support project managers with guidance on complex project issues

Key Skills:

• Analytical Skills: Ability to review schedules, budgets, and performance data to identify trends and potential issues.

• Contract Expertise: Strong understanding of contract law, commercial terms, and risk allocation across various contract types (lump sum, reimbursable, unit rate, EPC/EPCM).

• Project Management Systems: Proficiency with ERP systems and project controls software.

• KPI Management: Ability to define, track, and manage key performance indicators across both project controls and contract performance.

• Communication: Strong verbal and written skills; ability to convey project status, contractual positions, and recommendations clearly to senior leadership, clients, and project teams.

• Negotiation: Skilled in negotiating contract terms, change orders, and dispute resolutions to achieve favorable outcomes.

• Leadership: Ability to guide cross-functional teams and make sound commercial decisions under pressure.

• Problem-Solving: Critical thinking skills to address challenges, resolve disputes, and improve project and contract outcomes.

• Technical Proficiency: Advanced skills in Microsoft Excel and project management software.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Construction, Engineering Management or Business, or related field.

• 5–10 years of combined experience in project controls and/or contract management, preferably on capital projects

• Demonstrated experience administering contracts in construction, engineering, marine, or energy sectors is strongly preferred.

• Professional certifications such as PMP, PMI-SP, IPMA, or CPCM (Certified Professional Contracts Manager) are preferred.

• Familiarity with standard contract forms (FIDIC, NEC, AIA, LOGIC) and applicable regulatory requirements are an asset.

Work Environment:

This role is primarily office-based, with periodic visits to project sites as required. Field environments may involve exposure to loud noise and standard industrial site conditions. Some travel may be required depending on project location and phase.

This role is essential for ensuring that projects are delivered on time, within budget, in full contractual compliance, and in alignment with organizational objectives.