Contract Administrator

Department: DEV Development Office

Full-time position

About the University

From the Upstate to the Lowcountry, the University of South Carolina system is transforming the lives of South Carolinians through the impact of our eight institutions and 20 locations throughout the state. More than 50,000 students are enrolled at one of eight institutions, including the research campus in Columbia and comprehensive four-year universities in Aiken, Upstate, and Beaufort. In addition, our Palmetto College campuses in Salkehatchie, Union, Lancaster, and Sumter enable students to earn associate or bachelor's degrees through a combination of in-person, online, or blended learning. All of our system institutions place strong emphasis on service — helping to build healthier, more educated communities in South Carolina and beyond.

About the Role

Under very limited supervision, reporting to the Associate Vice President for Talent and Administrative Services, the Contract Administrator manages the full lifecycle of the Division's contracts, vendor agreements, and procurement-related activities with the University and Educational Foundation. Provides strategic oversight of contract planning, solicitation development, vendor engagement, fiscal monitoring, and compliance administration. Ensures all contractual activities are conducted in accordance with federal regulations, state laws, University policies, Educational Foundation requirements, and the South Carolina Consolidated Procurement Code while supporting operational effectiveness, fiscal accountability, and uninterrupted service delivery across the Division.

Responsibilities

• Manage the full lifecycle of contracts, including solicitation, negotiation, execution, monitoring, renewal, and closeout.
• Provide strategic oversight of contract planning, solicitation development, vendor engagement, fiscal monitoring, and compliance administration.
• Ensure compliance with federal regulations, state laws, University policies, Educational Foundation requirements, and the South Carolina Consolidated Procurement Code.
• Analyze contractual terms, interpret regulations, and resolve contract-related issues.
• Monitor contract compliance, assess risks, and manage vendor performance.
• Maintain strong organizational, project management, and recordkeeping skills to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Collaborate effectively with vendors, leadership, legal counsel, purchasing professionals, and program staff.
• Provide strategic guidance on procurement and contractual matters while ensuring operational efficiency and fiscal responsibility.
• Exercise sound judgment, maintain confidentiality, and foster productive stakeholder relationships in a complex organizational environment.
• Assign appropriate priorities to work activities based on organizational goals and situational pressures.

Requirements

• Knowledge of contract administration, procurement processes, and vendor management principles.
• Knowledge of applicable federal regulations, state laws, the South Carolina Consolidated Procurement Code, and institutional policies governing contracts and purchasing activities.
• Knowledge of budgeting, financial monitoring, invoice processing, and fiscal accountability practices.
• Skill in analyzing contractual terms, interpreting regulations, and resolving contract-related issues.
• Strong organizational, project management, and recordkeeping skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in financial and procurement systems, contract management tools, and Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to lead, advise, and communicate effectively with employees at all levels, as well as external customers and suppliers.

Preferred Qualifications

• A bachelor's degree and 4 years of experience in state government or higher education setting.
• Familiarity with the South Carolina Consolidated Procurement Code and active application in the work environment.

Benefits

• Health and Life Insurance
• Retirement Programs
• Paid Tuition and Dependent Scholarships
• Annual Leave and Sick Leave
• 13 Paid Holidays (including an extended December holiday)
• Paid Parental Leave
• Professional Development Opportunities