Contracts Administrator

About the Opportunity

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. It is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified.

JOB SUMMARY

The Contracts Administrator plays a key role in supporting the Contracts Team at the Center for Research Innovation, Northeastern’s technology transfer office. This position manages contract records, monitors compliance, and contributes to workflow and process improvements across the technology transfer office. In addition to handling the operational aspects of the contract lifecycle, including recordkeeping, reporting, and coordination with stakeholders, the Contracts Administrator is also responsible for preparing initial drafts of various agreements under the supervision of the Associate Director, IP & Contracts Counsel. This dual focus on administrative precision and early-stage drafting provides essential support to the team’s mission of ensuring effective, compliant, and timely management of research-related agreements.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree required; paralegal studies, business administration, or related field preferred. J.D. from an ABA-accredited law school preferred.
• Industry and/or venture experience plus experience in a technology transfer, higher education setting, or research-oriented non-profit setting advising clients on a variety of transactions and business matters are desired. 
• Demonstrated knowledge of contract administration practices, intellectual property concepts, and compliance requirements.
• Demonstrated ability to draft and manage agreements, maintain accurate and complete records, and coordinate effectively with internal and external stakeholders.
• Strong organizational, written and verbal communication, and data management skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Sign, and contract management systems (Minuet experience preferred).
• Ability to prioritize and balance multiple projects while working collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES & ACCOUNTABILITIES

Contracts Management (Outlook, Teams, Word, Minuet, Adobe) (55%)

• Draft initial versions of  technology transfer agreements (Non-Disclosure Agreements, Inter-Institutional Agreements, Option Agreements, License Agreements, Amendments) under the supervision of the Associate Director, IP & Contracts Counsel.
• Manage and update contract templates, ensuring version control and proper archiving.
• Distribute agreements for execution via Adobe and maintain related databases and spreadsheets.
• Monitor shared inboxes and track agreement activity through reports.
• Support team meetings by preparing materials and providing status updates on agreements.

Record Creation, Maintenance, and Quality Control (25%)

• Create, maintain, and update contract and invention records on University’s contract tracking platform, Minuet, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
• Perform Restricted Party Screening and track agreement statuses.
• Run reports and quality-check data to ensure integrity of records.
• Coordinate with internal and external stakeholders to finalize records and verify compliance with reporting obligations.

General Operations and Compliance Support (15%)

• Assist in developing workflows, SOPs, playbooks, and compliance resources.
• Support contract compliance prior to and post-execution by following established workflows, SOPs, checklists, and steps.
• Support data integrity and classification projects.
• Contribute to operational processes such as stock certificate tracking and internal recordkeeping.
• Collaborate with the Associate Director and team on process improvement initiatives.

Special Projects (5%)

• Participate in special projects as assigned by the Associate Director, IP & Contracts to ensure efficient and effective agreement processes, resources, and tools.

Position Type

Research

Additional Information

Northeastern University considers factors such as candidate work experience, education and skills when extending an offer.  

All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Compensation Grade/Pay Type:

107S

Expected Hiring Range:

$52,820.00 - $74,607.50

With the pay range(s) shown above, the starting salary will depend on several factors, which may include your education, experience, location, knowledge and expertise, and skills as well as a pay comparison to similarly-situated employees already in the role. Salary ranges are reviewed regularly and are subject to change.