Contract Officer

Northeastern University College of Engineering

. Review, analyze, draft, negotiate, and administer sponsored research and related contracts .

Posted 11/10/2026full-timeRemote • Massachusetts • United StatesMid-LevelSenior💰 $67,855 - $95,845 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Expertise in sponsored research administration, contract negotiation, and compliance with regulatory requirements is essential. Strong communication and project management skills are critical for effectively collaborating with various stakeholders and ensuring successful contract execution.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Sponsored Research AdministrationContract NegotiationRegulatory ComplianceProject ManagementInterpersonal Communication

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Contract DraftingRisk AnalysisFederal Statutes ReviewUniform Guidance KnowledgeIntellectual Property UnderstandingData Privacy RegulationsGovernment Contracting ConceptsGrant Regulations KnowledgeAgreement ProcessingPolicy Development

Soft Skills

Detail OrientationAnalytical Problem-SolvingCollaborationCreativityProfessionalism

Industry Keywords

Research AdministrationNon-Disclosure AgreementsMaterial Transfer AgreementsData Use AgreementsFCOIIRBIACUCIBCExport ControlsCustomer Service Initiatives

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Review, analyze, draft, negotiate, and administer sponsored research and related contracts
Process unfunded agreements, including non-disclosure, material transfer, and data use agreements
Identify legal, financial, regulatory, and business risks in contracts and agreements
Communicate contract issues and recommend mutually satisfactory terms and conditions to leadership, investigators, and administrative colleagues
Coordinate with General Counsel, Research Compliance, IT, Risk Services, OHSRP, EHS, and other university offices
Ensure regulatory requirements are met and contribute to post-execution administration of contract awards
Assist with contract policy and process development and ongoing process improvement initiatives
Support workflow management, outreach, education, and training programs
Provide input and feedback for systems, reports, and tools supporting the university research community
Participate in professional development activities, workshops, training, and special projects
Contribute to NU-RES customer service initiatives and maintain expert knowledge in the field

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor’s degree required
Minimum of 3–5 years’ relevant experience in research administration
Experience in an academic, military, non-profit, or industry setting
Demonstrated knowledge of sponsored research administration, related policies, and best practices
Experience reviewing federal statutes and regulations related to research and sponsored activities
Strong understanding of Uniform Guidance, intellectual property, FCOI, IRB/IACUC/IBC, data/privacy, and export controls
Familiarity with government contracting concepts, including FAR Parts 12 and 13, DFARs, and various contract vehicles is a plus
Knowledge of government grant regulations and agency policies preferred
Strong principle-based negotiation and agreement drafting experience
Understanding of concerns relevant to academic institutions, funding agencies, and corporate/industry partners
Detail orientation, solid judgment, and discretion in resolving ambiguity
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, time-sensitive environment
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Strong interpersonal, analytical, creative problem-solving, collaboration, and project management skills
Demonstrated integrity, initiative, professionalism, and commitment to customer service
Commitment to continued professional education and development

Benefits

Comp & perks

Medical insurance
Vision insurance
Dental insurance
Paid time off
Tuition assistance
Wellness & life benefits
Retirement benefits
Commuting & transportation benefits
Professional development activities, including training and workshops
Alternative work location/remote work support, determined based on operational needs and university policies