Contracts Specialist I

Department: Legal/Risk • Location: Houston, TX

About the role

Cotton is a diversified holding company with subsidiaries that provide property restoration and recovery, construction, roofing, logistical support, temporary workforce housing, and culinary services to public and private entities worldwide. Cotton combines this diverse suite of services with top talent, innovative technology, and a large inventory of company-owned assets to offer clients a total solutions package in support of disaster events and large development projects, including complex work environments.

The Contracts Specialist will play a vital role in supporting Cotton Holdings' diverse business operations by managing contract processes across our family of companies. This position requires expertise in contract review, negotiation, and administration with a preferred focus on the construction, restoration, and logistics industries. The ideal candidate will ensure contractual agreements protect company interests while facilitating business growth and maintaining compliance with relevant regulations.

Responsibilities

• Draft, review, and modify contracts including master service agreements, statements of work, vendor agreements, and subcontractor agreements
• Analyze contract terms and conditions to identify potential risks and recommend appropriate modifications
• Ensure all contracts comply with company policies, industry standards, and applicable laws/regulations
• Review and analyze requests for proposal and requests for quote to identify potential risks
• Collaborate with business units to negotiate favorable contract terms with clients, vendors, and subcontractors
• Maintain organized contract documentation system and ensure proper execution of all agreements
• Track contract milestones, renewal dates, and compliance requirements
• Prepare contract summary reports for management review
• Identify and mitigate contractual risks specific to construction, restoration, and logistics operations
• Monitor changes in relevant laws and regulations that impact contractual obligations
• Develop and implement standardized contract templates and processes
• Ensure proper insurance requirements and indemnification provisions are included in all agreements
• Work closely with legal, finance, operations, and business development teams
• Provide guidance to project managers on contract interpretation and compliance
• Support dispute resolution processes when contractual issues arise
• Conduct training for staff on contract procedures and best practices

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Finance, Legal Studies, or related field
• Minimum 5 years of contract management experience, preferably in construction or restoration industries
• Demonstrated knowledge of contract law and commercial contract principles
• Strong analytical skills with attention to detail and accuracy
• Excellent negotiation and communication skills (written and verbal)
• Proficiency in contract management software and Microsoft Office Suite
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Strong problem-solving skills and business acumen

Preferred Qualifications

• Paralegal certification or Contract Management certification (CCCM, CCMP, or similar)
• Experience with government contracts and public sector procurement processes
• Knowledge of construction industry standard contracts (AIA, ConsensusDocs)
• Familiarity with disaster recovery operations and FEMA contracting requirements
• Experience working in a multi-subsidiary corporate environment
• Bilingual capabilities (English/Spanish) are a plus

Schedule

This position is onsite: Monday–Wednesday (Corporate Office), Thursday (Katy Office), Friday (work from home).

Pay

$70,000 – $80,000 per year

Benefits

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan with discretionary company match
• Paid time off (unlimited) and company holidays
• Professional development opportunities and continuing education support
• Career advancement potential across multiple business units
• Opportunity to work with industry-leading brands in a dynamic, growth-oriented environment