Project Engineer/Contract Manager

Job Title: Project Engineer/Contract Manager

Location: Detroit, MI

Duration: 6 months

Schedule: Hybrid – 3 days in office

The Contract Manager is responsible for overseeing supplier performance and contract management activities for medium- to large-scale contracts. This role focuses on maximizing contract value, ensuring vendor compliance, managing supplier relationships, and supporting strategic sourcing initiatives throughout the contract lifecycle.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement contract strategies that align with business objectives.
• Draft, review, negotiate, and manage contract terms and conditions in accordance with company policies and standards.
• Oversee all post-award contract activities, including administration, compliance, modifications, renewals, extensions, and closeout.
• Monitor vendor performance and ensure compliance with contractual obligations, service levels, and payment terms.
• Identify opportunities to maximize contract value and improve supplier performance.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for resolving contractual issues and disputes between the company and vendors.
• Partner with Supply Chain Management to develop optimal contract structures and commercial terms.
• Manage purchase order-related activities in compliance with corporate policies and procedures.
• Ensure contract visibility by communicating executed agreements and key requirements to stakeholders.
• Support change management efforts by documenting contract revisions, amendments, and ongoing issues.
• Interface with internal customers and external suppliers to ensure contractual compliance and performance expectations are met.
• Collaborate with sourcing and procurement teams on vendor selection and supplier management initiatives.
• Analyze existing processes and recommend improvements utilizing continuous improvement methodologies.
• Support contract negotiations and supplier performance management initiatives.
• Develop, track, and report key contract management and supplier performance metrics.
• Mentor and provide guidance to junior Contract Managers and team members as needed.

Qualifications Required:

• Associate's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in contract management, supplier management, procurement, or related functions.
• Experience managing contracts throughout the full contract lifecycle.
• Strong negotiation, problem-solving, and stakeholder management skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
• Strong project management and organizational skills.
• Demonstrated ability to influence and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders.
• High attention to detail and analytical thinking.

Preferred:

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Experience leading teams, mentoring colleagues, or managing large-scale projects.

Technical Skills Proficiency with:

• Microsoft Office Suite
• SAP
• Maximo
• Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) systems

Key Competencies

• Contract Administration
• Supplier Performance Management
• Strategic Sourcing Support
• Negotiation and Conflict Resolution
• Vendor Compliance Management
• Continuous Improvement
• Stakeholder Engagement
• Project Leadership
• Risk Management
• Performance Metrics and Reporting