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Research Contract Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Performs research and institutes best practices and new methods for reducing costs associated with contract management. * Acts as interface and point of contact for contract administrators, managers ...

Contract Manager

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$85K - $114K/yr

Success in the role depends on strong research, communication, and technology skills. The position ... Key Duties Contract Management & Administration * Draft, review, negotiate, and administer a wide ...

Contract Manager

Bridgeport, CT · On-site

$90K - $121K/yr

Information Technology (IT), Clinical Research, Rehabilitation Therapy and Nursing. Title: Contract Manager Duration: 2 Years Location: Bridgeport ,CT Direct Client : Immediate Interview This ...

Contract Manager

Monroe, NC · On-site

$82K - $110K/yr

Contract Manager ASSA ABLOY Entrance Systems, Pedestrian Door Solutions Join the industry leader in ... Research skills. * Organizational skills. * Strong communication skills (oral & written) are a must.

Contract Manager

Painted Post, NY · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

Information Technology (IT), Clinical Research, Rehabilitation Therapy and Nursing. Position: Contract Manager Duration: 1 Year Location: Painted post, NY Direct client: Immediate interview Job ...

The Contract Manager, reporting to the Vice President, General Counsel & Corporate Secretary, is ... Collaborate with representatives from contract research organizations (CROs) on clinical trial ...

Contract Manager

Monroe, NC · On-site +1

$82K - $110K/yr

Contract Manager ASSA ABLOY Entrance Systems, Pedestrian Door Solutions Join the industry leader in ... Research skills. * Organizational skills. * Strong communication skills (oral & written) are a must.

... will manage the preparation, negotiation, execution, and distribution of member contracts that ... Act as Privacy and Compliance Team liaison for the Strategic Growth Domain by researching and ...

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Research Contract Manager information

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$50K

$98.6K

$173.5K

How much do research contract manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for research contract manager in the United States is $98,569.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,000.00 and $114,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges a Research Contract Manager faces when negotiating agreements with external partners?

A Research Contract Manager frequently encounters challenges such as aligning the interests and expectations of multiple stakeholders, ensuring compliance with institutional and legal requirements, and negotiating terms related to intellectual property, publication rights, and confidentiality. Balancing the needs of researchers, sponsors, and legal teams can be complex, especially when timelines are tight or contract language is ambiguous. Effective communication, attention to detail, and negotiation skills are essential to overcoming these challenges and ensuring mutually beneficial agreements.

What is a Research Contract Manager?

A Research Contract Manager is a professional responsible for overseeing the creation, negotiation, and management of contracts related to research projects, often within universities, research institutions, or private organizations. They ensure all agreements comply with legal, ethical, and institutional guidelines, and protect the interests of the organization and its research partners. Their role involves working closely with researchers, legal teams, sponsors, and other stakeholders to facilitate smooth and compliant research collaborations. Research Contract Managers must have a strong understanding of contract law, intellectual property, and research regulations.

What is the difference between Research Contract Manager vs Research Project Coordinator?

AspectResearch Contract ManagerResearch Project Coordinator
Primary RoleManages contractual agreements and negotiations for research projectsCoordinates project activities, schedules, and resources
Required CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a related field; legal or contract training beneficialUsually holds a bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline
Work EnvironmentOffice-based, often within research institutions or legal departmentsOffice or lab setting, supporting research teams
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in research institutions, universities, and biotech companiesUsed across research projects in academic and industry settings

The Research Contract Manager focuses on managing legal and contractual aspects of research projects, ensuring compliance and negotiations. In contrast, the Research Project Coordinator handles day-to-day project operations and logistics. Both roles are essential in research environments but serve different functions related to project management and legal oversight.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Research Contract Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Research Contract Manager, you need a strong background in contract law, negotiation, and compliance, often supported by a degree in law, business, or a related field. Familiarity with contract management systems, legal research databases, and regulatory frameworks such as GDPR or HIPAA is important. Exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication enable you to manage complex agreements and collaborate with diverse stakeholders. These skills are crucial to ensure compliant, timely, and beneficial research partnerships for your organization.
More about Research Contract Manager jobs
What cities are hiring for Research Contract Manager jobs? Cities with the most Research Contract Manager job openings:
What states have the most Research Contract Manager jobs? States with the most job openings for Research Contract Manager jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Research Contract Manager jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Research Contract Manager jobs are:
Infographic showing various Research Contract Manager job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,569 per year, or $47.4 per hour.

$100K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Key Responsibilities

  • Prepares, reviews, and helps negotiate contracts related to EFJohnson’s sales, purchasing,
  • and licensing and intellectual property initiatives.
  • Reviews RFP terms and conditions for state, local, federal, and international customers; prepares exceptions and alternate contract language; communicates risks to management.
  • Reviews and drafts contract documents with support from functional executives and
  • General Counsel.
  • Prepares and disseminates information regarding contract status, compliance, modifications, deviations, and negotiations.
  • Tracks contractual due dates and cancellation rights and participates in contract dispute
  • resolutions and related processes.
  • Compiles, analyzes, and maintains data and prepares metrics-based reports highlighting the value and performance of contracts.
  • Assures compliance with terms and conditions and evaluates and recommends the necessity for amendments and extensions.
  • Performs research and institutes best practices and new methods for reducing costs associated with contract management.
  • Acts as interface and point of contact for contract administrators, managers, and internal staff regarding contractual issues.
  • Assist with other contractual and legal initiatives as requested.
  • Agrees to abide by the established Approval Matrix.


Qualifications 

  • B.A. in Business or Communications preferred. Continuing education in contracts management or law preferred. 
  • Knowledge and understanding of contractual, technical, and regulatory aspects of the wireless industry preferred.
  • Able to read and understand contract terminology, product and service offerings and pricing terms associated with technology products and services acquisition.
  • Five or more years of experience working in a contracts management and/or contracts administration position, preferably supporting a technology organization within the telecommunications industry.
  • Strong business acumen capable of translating complex technical and operational requirements into a clear boardroom context.
  • Track record of establishing technology partnerships and related contracts.
  • International experience preferred.
  • Experience in a legal work environment where sensitivity to confidentiality and critical documentation is proven.

What We’re Looking For

  • Strong ability to negotiate commercial arrangements and facilitate contractual processes.
  • Demonstrated analytical ability and familiarity with terms of contracts, statements of work and other legal documents.
  • High degree of flexibility and adaptability to fast changing environment.
  • Articulate communicator with excellent written and verbal skills.
  • Demonstrated negotiations skills, and experience dealing with external and internal clients.
  • Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and ability to work independently.
  • Ability to coordinate and prioritize multiple tasks effectively with all applicable departments with minimal supervision.
  • Requires a good understanding of business and financial issues and above average math and computer skills.
  • Travel requirements
  • Less than 5%.

What We Offer 

  • Competitive salary 
  • Health, dental, and vision benefits
  • Additional supplemental benefits
  • 401K + employer match
  • Tuition reimbursement 
  • 12 paid holidays + additional PTO
  • Supportive- team-driven environment
  • Opportunities to work on mission-critical projects that make a real impact