Contract Administrator
Job Purpose and Position Overview:
Snow & Company is a dynamic, fast-growing shipyard located in Fremont, specializing in new vessel construction and ship repair. We are seeking a motivated, well-organized, and detail-oriented Contract Administrator to join our Project Management Team.
This individual will play a critical role in supporting the successful execution of complex projects by managing customer and vendor contracts throughout their entire lifecycle—from initial review and negotiation through compliance, billing, and closeout.
As a key member of the Project Management Team, the Contract Administrator will work closely with the VP of Project Management, Project Managers, Estimators, Purchasing, and Accounting to ensure that contract terms are clearly defined, well-documented, and proactively managed. Responsibilities include reviewing contracts prior to execution, tracking and managing contract deliverables, preparing and processing change orders, supporting invoicing and billing processes, and maintaining consistent contract reporting.
This is a hands-on role that demands independent judgment, strong reading and writing skills, a proactive mindset, and an exceptional organizational ability to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
Duties and Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:
Estimating and Pre-Contract Support
•Review potential contracts and provide feedback on potential issues or concerns. Snow does a substantial amount of public sector work (Navy, USCG, USACE, State & local entities) which requires reviewing customer provided contracts. For our commercial work, Snow has standard contracts that must often be tailored to the specific contract.
•Assist in proposal preparation by drafting representations and certifications or other pre-contract submittals including schedules, bills of materials, and company qualifications.
•Assist in negotiating contract terms and conditions.
Project Management Support
•Maintain organized records of contract documentation and correspondence; both physically and digitally.
•Track contract milestones, deliverables, submittals, and performance metrics.
•Prepare change orders and contract modifications as needed.
•Prepare weekly contract reports including budget and schedule performance and status updates on outstanding issues.
•Provide and review daily time charges with Project Managers; resolve timekeeping issues with production staff.
•Assist in resolving contract disputes.
•Review and track subcontracts as needed.
Purchasing and General Support
•Provide advice and assistance on unusual vender terms and conditions, long-term purchase agreements, and subcontracts.
•Review Non-Disclosure Agreements.
•Provide guidance and advice to Management on risks and/or concerns related to general business agreements (leases, regulatory applications, permits, etc.).
•Support internal process improvements for contract management systems and workflows.
Qualifications & Experience:
Required:
•Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Contract Management, or related field
•Minimum 3 years of progressive experience in contract management in the marine, construction or manufacturing industries.
•Effective at drafting, reviewing, and negotiating contracts and technical documents.
•Ability to read and interpret legal documents, scopes of work, and project specs.
•Ability to manage multiple contracts simultaneously and meet deadlines.
•Excellent writing skills.
•Keen attention to detail, with an ability to spot errors.
•High proficiency with MS Office especially ability to edit and track changes in MS Word.
•Ability to prioritize tasks and to ask for support when appropriate.
•Willingness to help develop new systems and processes.
Preferred:
•Certified Professional Contracts Manager (CPCM) or Certified Construction Contract Administrator (CCCA) training or Certification.
•Experience with US Navy Contracts.
•Knowledge of marine vessels, ship systems, and associated regulatory environments.
Work Environment & Physical Requirements:
This position is based in an office within an active boatyard. Occasional visits to vessels, workshops, or production areas may be required. These environments may involve uneven surfaces, inclined gangways, and variable noise levels. Proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and adherence to safety procedures is required. Extended hours or deadline-driven work may be necessary at times.
Snow & Company Perks:
•Competitive compensation
•100% company-paid health insurance for employees; 80% for spouses and dependents
•Health Savings Account (HSA)
•Collaborative and innovative work environment
•Bike and transit-friendly location (Burke-Gilman Trail & Metro access)
Equal Opportunity Employment:
Snow & Company, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Employment decisions are made based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.