Washington University in St. Louis is hiring a Contract Specialist (Remote) - Joint Research Office for Contracts

Washington University in St. Louis is hiring a Contract Specialist for its Joint Research Office for Contracts. This remote position acts as the critical liaison between university stakeholders and external partners, including companies, foundations, and government agencies. You will thoughtfully expedite the negotiation of research contracts, upholding the institution’s principles and policies while managing a large portfolio from negotiation to closeout.

What You'll Do

• Manage the contract portfolio for departments and schools, including review and negotiation of all contract-supported activities.
• Draft and negotiate various agreements such as clinical research agreements, data use agreements, confidentiality agreements, federal contracts, and sub-awards.
• Advise faculty and staff on issues impacting contractual relationships or negotiations.
• Review contract and agency guidelines regarding intellectual property, publication, and indemnification terms to safeguard university and investigator interests.
• Ensure a high level of service support to principal investigators and administrators while evaluating risk.
• Maintain awareness of regulatory changes and court decisions impacting contract negotiations; interpret and disseminate related policies.
• Maintain accurate electronic records and ensure data integrity in the contract tracking system; provide strategic reports as requested.

What We're Looking For

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree.
• Five or more years of relevant professional experience.

Nice to Have

• Two or more years of experience in research administration or contract negotiation.
• Proficiency in contract negotiations, drafting agreements, and knowledge of policies and procedures.
• Strong skills in written and oral communication, diplomacy, professional etiquette, and sound judgment.
• Ability in task organization, workload prioritization, working independently, and stress management.
• A detail-oriented, self-aware approach to managing employee relationships in a research administration context.

Benefits & Compensation

• Salary Range: $75,200.00 - $128,800.00 Annually.
• Up to 22 days of vacation, 10 recognized holidays, and sick time.
• Competitive health insurance packages.
• Free Metro transit U-Pass for eligible employees.
• Defined contribution (403(b)) Retirement Savings Plan with university contributions starting at 7%.
• Wellness challenges, health screenings, mental health resources, mindfulness programs, and an employee assistance program (EAP).
• 4 weeks of caregiver leave and family care resources.
• Generous tuition benefits for you and your family, including dependent undergraduate-level college tuition up to 100% at WashU and 40% elsewhere after seven years.

Work Mode

This is a fully remote position.

Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity and especially encourages applications by those from underrepresented groups. The university provides equal opportunity and access regardless of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.