Contract Officer

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in Massachusetts.

📋 Description

• Review, analyze, draft, negotiate, and manage sponsored research and related contracts.

• Process unfunded agreements, which include non-disclosure, material transfer, and data use agreements.

• Identify legal, financial, regulatory, and business risks associated with contracts and agreements.

• Communicate contract-related issues and propose mutually agreeable terms and conditions to leadership, investigators, and administrative colleagues.

• Collaborate with General Counsel, Research Compliance, IT, Risk Services, OHSRP, EHS, and other university departments.

• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and contribute to the post-execution management of contract awards.

• Assist in the development of contract policies and processes as well as ongoing process improvement initiatives.

• Support workflow management, outreach, education, and training programs.

• Provide insights and feedback for systems, reports, and tools that support the university research community.

• Engage in professional development activities, workshops, training, and special projects.

• Contribute to NU-RES customer service initiatives and maintain expert knowledge in the field.

⛳️ Requirements

• A Bachelor’s degree is required.

• A minimum of 3–5 years of relevant experience in research administration.

• Experience in an academic, military, non-profit, or industry environment.

• Demonstrated knowledge of sponsored research administration, associated policies, and best practices.

• Experience in reviewing federal statutes and regulations related to research and sponsored activities.

• Strong understanding of Uniform Guidance, intellectual property, FCOI, IRB/IACUC/IBC, data privacy, and export controls.

• Familiarity with government contracting concepts, including FAR Parts 12 and 13, DFARs, and various contract vehicles is an advantage.

• Preferred knowledge of government grant regulations and agency policies.

• Strong experience in principle-based negotiation and agreement drafting.

• Understanding of issues relevant to academic institutions, funding agencies, and corporate/industry partners.

• Detail-oriented with solid judgment and discretion in resolving ambiguities.

• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, time-sensitive environment.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

• Strong interpersonal, analytical, creative problem-solving, collaboration, and project management capabilities.

• Demonstrated integrity, initiative, professionalism, and a commitment to customer service.

• Commitment to ongoing professional education and development.

🏝️ Benefits

• Medical insurance.

• Vision insurance.

• Dental insurance.

• Paid time off.

• Tuition assistance.

• Wellness and life benefits.

• Retirement benefits.

• Commuting and transportation benefits.

• Opportunities for professional development activities, including training and workshops.

• Support for alternative work locations/remote work, determined by operational needs and university policies.