What are the responsibilities and job description for the Contract Administrator position at Wurster Engineering & Construction, Inc.?
About the Company
Wurster Betterground is a specialty geotechnical subcontractor providing innovative solutions in earth retention, piling, ground improvement, and deep foundation systems. We partner with leading general contractors and developers to deliver technically complex, high-risk infrastructure and commercial projects safely, efficiently, and profitably.
Position Summary
The Contract Administrator is responsible for managing the preparation, negotiation, and administration of project contracts and subcontracts. This role ensures that all contractual documents accurately reflect project scope, commercial terms, and company risk policies. The ideal candidate will combine strong contract and legal acumen with a practical understanding of construction operations, especially within geotechnical and civil environments.
Key Responsibilities
Contract Review and Negotiation
- Review prime contract terms and conditions provided by general contractors.
- Identify, evaluate, and mitigate contractual and commercial risks in Subcontract agreements.
- Propose revisions to boilerplate language, ensuring compliance with company policy and protection of company interests.
- Collaborate with company leadership and legal counsel on key contract provisions including indemnity, insurance, delay, differing site conditions, warranties, and payment terms.
Scope of Work Development
- Work with estimating, design, and project management teams to draft detailed and accurate Scope of Work Exhibits.
- Ensure alignment between proposal documents, technical specifications, drawings, and final contract exhibits.
- Clarify and document assumptions, exclusions, and subcontractor responsibilities to prevent scope creep and disputes.
Contract Administration
- Maintain organized records of contract negotiations, amendments, and correspondence.
- Support project managers in interpreting contract requirements during project execution.
- Track contract deliverables, change orders, notices, and compliance items.
- Develop and prepare subcontract agreements for lower-tier vendors and specialty consultants.
Risk and Compliance Management
- Support company risk management initiatives through consistent contract language and documentation practices.
- Ensure compliance with licensing, bonding, and insurance requirements.
- Coordinate with bonding and insurance agents to ensure compliance with existing policies and acquire/negotiate policies and terms which match the company’s interests.
- Contribute to development of standardized contract templates and company contracting procedures.
Claims and Disputes Management
- Assist senior management and project management teams in the preparation and submission of claims for changes, delays, differing site conditions, and other entitlements.
- Work closely with project managers to ensure timely notice and proper documentation of potential claims.
- Coordinate with outside counsel or consultants as needed for mediation, arbitration, or litigation support.
- Maintain a consistent, professional approach to dispute resolution that protects company interests while preserving key client relationships
Qualifications
Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Business, Pre-Law, Law or related field (or equivalent experience).
- 3–7 years of experience in contract administration or project controls in construction; experience with heavy civil, geotechnical, or specialty subcontracting preferred.
Knowledge & Skills
- Strong working knowledge of construction contract structures (AIA, ConsensusDocs, AGC, custom GC forms).
- Familiarity with risk allocation principles, indemnity clauses, construction damages, and insurance requirements.
- Strong writing, communication, and negotiation skills.
- Excellent attention to detail and organizational discipline.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and document management systems.
Why Join Us
At Wurster Betterground, you’ll be part of a technically driven team that values precision, integrity, and collaboration. We offer competitive compensation, opportunities for professional growth, and a chance to contribute meaningfully to complex projects that shape our built environment.