Contracts Specialist

Job SummaryThe Contracts Specialist provides administrative and analytical support to Contracts and Procurement Services. Working independently under limited supervision, this position is responsible for a variety of services to campus departments to ensure the procurement authority vested with the University is effectively implemented and administered in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations.The Contract Specialist prepares and processes contract documents for construction, construction related professional services, leases, student agreements, memorandums of understanding, license agreements, revenue agreements, long-term finance agreements and other contractual obligations required by the University.Key ResponsibilitiesInitiate, evaluate, and execute a variety of contracts including construction related public works contracts, design and professional service agreements, leases, student agreements, memorandums of understanding, and other miscellaneous campus contracts in accordance with CSU, ICSUAM and SUAM guidelinesGeneral administration includes the analysis of contract financial data (review of Job Order Contract compliance, Change Order Requests), interpreting and applying rules and policy, understanding and making decisions related to terms and conditions, writing and developing public solicitations including evaluations/recommendations /contract specificationsProvide contract management through the term of the contract to ensure appropriate execution of documents including notification, compliance with contract terms, termination of contracts, evaluation and verification of risk and insurance terms, overseeing evaluation teams and processes, communicating and interfacing with contractors, vendors, clients, university staff and faculty in fulfillment of dutiesIdentify potential savings through proper execution of bid solicitations, intense review of Contractor requests for payment, risk evaluation and avoidanceDisplay higher level of knowledge, skills, and experience in the construction industry and participating in current problem-solving techniques, applying CSU and University guidelinesActively participate in procurement planning, analysis, development, and evaluation of highly complex procurement programs with a broad impact to the university, community, and CSUResearch, analysis, assessment, formulation, development, and evaluation from a strategic and operational perspective of programs such as emergency contracting, construction programs, student programs, revenue generating programsRegularly participate in planning and development activities and independent determination of methods meeting procurement program goals, policies, and lawsGather and report statistical information on contracting and procurementPrepare and review reports for public reporting requirementsWork with staff to compile and post compilation audits, and project closure notificationsCoordinate reports on project development and contracted activitiesResearch procurement and contracting methodologies and recommend beneficial changes/implementations for policy and procedures as neededCoordination and administration of campus training sessions including procurement training, RFP training, vendor outreach conferences, and other related sessionsIdentify potential savings through proper execution of bid solicitations, review of Contractor requests for payment, risk evaluation and avoidanceResponsible for contract management of public works projects for minor and major capital projectsClosely monitor retention funds before release at the close-out phase of the projectsKnowledge, Skills & AbilitiesContract Administration Expertise and the thorough knowledge of and ability to apply this expertise to complex programs and a wide range of university contracts, including the applicable laws and regulations governing the procurement programsExpertise in techniques, analysis, research, and development and the ability to interpret and evaluate results to develop sound conclusions and make recommendationsAbility to understand university problems and objectives from a broad perspective and discern applicable underlying principles to conceive and develop strategic solutions in the execution of university contractsAbility to work effectively and collaboratively with a wide range of public and private entities over a broad range of contractual topics include those of potentially sensitive or confidential situationsAbility to communicate with constituents in a professional and respectful mannerExcellent oral and written communication skillsThorough knowledge of and ability to apply extensive expertise to complex programs and/or administrative specialties related to Procurement and Contracting, including pertinent laws and regulationsExpertise in and advanced knowledge of the principles, problems, and methods of public and business administration and operational and fiscal managementExpertise in administrative survey techniques, operations and systems analysis, statistical and research methods, and the ability to interpret and evaluate results to develop sound conclusions and recommend new or revised policiesAbility to understand problems from a broad, interactive perspective and discern applicable underlying principles to conceive of and develop strategic solutionsAbility to work with representatives from public and private entities and handle potentially sensitive situationsConsultative skills in working with internal and external constituent groupsAbility to effectively present ideas and concepts in written or presentation format and use consultative and facilitation skills to gain consensusAbility to train others on new skills and proceduresKnowledge of PeopleSoft or other ERP financial system, Department of General Services (DGS) eProcurement portal and online tools, PlanetBids Electronic Platform, Smartsheet or other project tools, PowerPoint and other training tools. Other computer skills (word, excel, access, and online meeting tools).Maintain knowledge of state laws, CSU policies, university policies, procedures and performance standards including but not limited to ICSUAM 5000, ICSUAM 9000 and other topics as needed in Contact AdministrationsExcellent customer service and public relations skillsRequired Qualifications* A bachelor's degree and/or equivalent training* Four years of administrative work experience involving study, analysis, and/or evaluation leading to the development or improvement of administrative policies, procedures, practices, or programsPreferred QualificationsMaster's DegreeExperience with Contract AdministrationExperience with client relationship managementExperience tracking relevant KPIs (e.g. contract performance, customer service, etc.)Experience with negotiating complex contractsExperience with risk management via contractsCompensationClassification: Administrative Analyst/Specialist - Exempt IIAnticipated Hiring Range: $7,352/month - $7,958/month (Step 13 - Step 17)CSU Salary Range: $5,797/month - $8,445/month (Step 1 - Step 20)San José State University offers employees a comprehensive benefits package typically worth 30-35% of your base salary. For more information on programs available, please see the Employee Benefits Summary.Application ProcedureClick Apply Now to complete the SJSU Online Employment Application and attach the following documents:ResumeLetter of InterestList of ReferencesAll applicants must apply within the specified application period: February 24, 2026 through March, 15, 2026. This position is open until filled; however, applications received after screening has begun will be considered at the discretion of the university.Contact InformationUniversity Personneljobs@sjsu.edu408-924-2252CSU Vaccination PolicyThe CSU strongly recommends that all individuals who access any in-person program or activity (on- or off-campus) operated or controlled by the University follow COVID-19 vaccine recommendations adopted by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) applicable to their age, medical condition, and other relevant indications and comply with other safety measures established by each campus. The system wide policy can be found at https://calstate.policystat.com/policy/9779821/latest/ and questions may be sent to jobs@sjsu.edu.Additional InformationSatisfactory completion of a background check (including a criminal records check) is required for employment. SJSU will issue a contingent offer of employment to the selected candidate, which may be rescinded if the background check reveals disqualifying information, and/or it is discovered that the candidate knowingly withheld or falsified information. Failure to satisfactorily complete the background check may affect the continued employment of a current CSU employee who was offered the position on a contingent basis.The standard background check includes: criminal check, employment and education verification. Depending on the position, a motor vehicle and/or credit check may be required. All background checks are conducted through the university's third party vendor, Accurate Background. Some positions may also require fingerprinting. SJSU will pay all costs associated with this procedure. Evidence of required degree(s) or certification(s) will be required at time of hire.SJSU IS NOT A SPONSORING AGENCY FOR STAFF OR MANAGEMENT POSITIONS. (e.g. H1-B VISAS)All San José State University employees are considered mandated reporters under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and are required to comply with the requirements set forth in CSU Executive Order 1083 as a condition of employment. Incumbent is also required to promptly report any knowledge of a possible Title IX related incident to the Title IX Office or report any discrimination, harassment, and/or retaliation to the Office of Equal Opportunity.Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics Act and Campus Housing Fire Safety Notification:Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, the Annual Security Report (ASR) is also now available for viewing at https://www.sjsu.edu/clery/docs/SJSU-Annual-Security-Report.pdf. The ASR contains the current security and safety-related policy statements, emergency preparedness and evacuation information, crime prevention and Sexual Assault prevention information, and information about drug and alcohol prevention programming. The ASR also contains statistics of Clery crimes for San José State University locations for the three most recent calendar years. A paper copy of the ASR is available upon request by contacting the Office of the Clery Director by phone at 408-924-1501 or by email at clerycompliance@sjsu.edu.Pursuant to the Higher Education Opportunity Act, the Annual Fire Safety Report (AFSR) is also available for viewing at https://www.sjsu.edu/clery/docs/SJSU-Annual-Fire-Safety-Report.pdf. The purpose of this report is to disclose statistics for fires that occurred within SJSU on-campus housing facilities for the three most recent calendar years, and to distribute fire safety policies and procedures intended to promote safety on Campus. A paper copy of the AFSR is available upon request by contacting the Housing Office by phone at 408-795-5600 or by email at uhs-frontdesk@sjsu.edu.Campus Security Authority - In accordance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act (Clery Act) and CSU systemwide policy, this position is subject to ongoing review for designation as a Campus Security Authority. Individuals that are designated as Campus Security Authorities are required to immediately report Clery incidents to the institution and complete Clery Act training as determined by the university Clery Director.Equal Employment StatementSan José State University is an equal opportunity employer. The university prohibits discrimination based on age, ancestry, caste, color, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military status, nationality, race, religion, religious creed, sex, sexual orientation, sex stereotype, and veteran status. This policy applies to all San José State University students, faculty, and staff, as well as university programs and activities. Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, and certain other federal and state laws, prohibit discrimination on the basis of sex in all education programs and activities operated by the university (both on and off campus). Reasonable accommodation is made for applicants with disabilities who self-disclose. San José State University employees are considered mandated reporters under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and are required to comply with the requirements set forth in CSU Executive Order 1083 as a condition of employment.Advertised: Feb 24 2026 Pacific Standard TimeApplications close: