What are the responsibilities and job description for the US ESS Business Contract Manager position at SK Battery America?
Sr. Contract Manager, ESS
SKOn, a proud member of SK Group, the second largest conglomerate with a revenue size of $150 billion, is one of the fastest-growing battery manufacturers globally. With ambitious plans to reach over 180GWh manufacturing capacity in the US, SKOn is at the forefront of innovation in the energy storage sector. In response to the increasing domestic demand, SKOn is set to manufacture state-of-the-art 5.3MWh DC Blocks, fully compliant with the latest US domestic content requirements and eligible for full ITC benefits. Additionally, SKOn has contracted and awarded projects totaling 7GWh to be installed in the US starting 2026.
As SKOn continues to grow, we are looking for an experienced Sr. Contract Manager to join our Energy Storage team at SKBA, our US subsidiary. The Contract Manager is key to making sure energy storage projects risks are mitigated, from sales to operation. This person reviews, negotiates, and manages contracts with Independent Power Producers (IPPs), developers, suppliers-including partners for Power Conversion Systems (PCS), Energy Management Systems (EMS), battery components -and other agreements, making sure everything meets legal, regulatory, and technical requirements. By spotting and addressing risks early, the Sr. Contract Manager helps protect SKOn's interest and supports our goals.
Main duties include helping project teams with contract issues, building strong relationships with vendors, and working closely with our sales, engineering, project management, and legal teams. The Contract Manager also handles financial and regulatory reporting, keeps track of contract performance, and makes sure all parties meet their obligations on time. This role involves solving problems, communicating effectively across teams, and focusing on delivering great results and client satisfaction through all stages of our projects.
Key Responsibilities:
Contract Review and Management
- Review and understand Battery Energy Storage system sales contracts: Carefully read and interpret sales contracts for DC Battery Blocks and full system sales covering DC Battery, Power Conversion System (PCS), and Energy Management System (EMS). Make sure all terms, obligations, and performance guarantees are clear, meet SK On's standards, and follow legal rules.
- Check and manage supplier contracts: Review contracts with suppliers for PCS and EMS components. Compare sales and vendor contracts to find gaps or risks, and suggest ways to cover them. Work with legal, engineering, and sales teams to fix any contract issues and protect SK On's interests.
- Oversee contract management system: Enter and keep track of key contract terms, obligations, and deadlines in teh contract management system. Make sure all contract details are documented and organized to support audits and clear contract management.
- Handle contract changes and amendments: Manage all steps of contract change orders and amendments. Work with sale, engineering, project management, and legal teams for quick and accurate updates. Share changes with all stakeholders, update records, and track how changes affect projects.
Contract Negotiation
- Negotiate with suppliers, vendors, and contractors, to get the best terms and reduce risks for SK On. Use market knowledge, technical skills, and an understanding of SKOn's goals to guide negotiations. Make sure contracts are clear, protect SK On from risks, and include performance guarantees that limit liability.
- Work with legal, finance, and project teams to make sure contracts match project needs, timelines, and budgets. Regularly review contract details with legal counsel to stay compliant with laws and company policies. Coordinate with finance and project management to keep costs under control and meet project milestones. Maintain good communication with all teams to ensure clients are satisfied and projects run smoothly.
Qualifications
Education Background: A bachelor's degree, degrees in business administration, law, finance, or related field. MBA or JD is a plus.
Experience: At least 3 years in contract management or legal management in BESS industry, focusing on utility-scale projects. A minimum of 7 years in contract, paralegal, legal research, legal drafting or commercial negotiation or related role.
Contract Law Knowledge: Demonstrated expertise in contract law, including a thorough understanding of essential contract principles, standard and complex clauses, and their legal implications. Ability to analyze, interpret, and draft contractual provisions to ensure compliance, minimize risks, and safeguard SK On's interests. Skilled in identifying potential legal issues, advising on risk mitigation strategies, and collaborating with legal counsel to address contract disputes or ambiguities.
Technicial Skills: Have general knowledge of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), including how the cells, batteries, and modules are designed and integrated DC Power Block.
Software Profieciency: Proficiency with Microsoft Office
Soft Skills: Demonstrated leadership, communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills, with an ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
Certifications (Optional): Certified Commercial Contract Manager (CCCM) or Certified Professional Contract Manager (CPCM) is a plus.
Req Benefits: Competitive Compensation Market Leading Benefits Package: Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) match, short- and long-term disability, health savings account, PTO, Profit Sharing
Compensation: 170000