[Remote] Lead Contract Specialist

Note: The job is a remote job and is open to candidates in USA. CDM Smith delivers advanced solutions that enable the U.S. government to protect lives, communities, and the environment. The Lead Contract Specialist will support the Federal Group by managing complex prime and subcontract agreements, ensuring compliance with corporate policies and government regulations throughout the contract lifecycle. Responsibilities • Serves as the lead on complex contracts of moderate to high risk • Applies expert knowledge of FAR, DFARS, and agency- and DoW/Army-specific acquisition regulations to support company compliance and risk management • Provides strategic contractual and regulatory advice to project managers, program managers, business line leadership, and executives • Performs detailed reviews of solicitations, contracts, task orders, modifications, and other agreements to identify risk, compliance, and business issues • Advises management on contractual rights, obligations, and risk mitigation strategies • Ensures organizational compliance with contract terms, applicable laws, and regulations • Maintains accurate and complete contract files in the Contracts Lifecycle Management (CLM) System in accordance with company policy and audit requirements • Supports pursuits and proposals by reviewing solicitations, identifying risks, and advising on compliance and pricing strategies • Assists with drafting questions to the Government regarding identified solicitation and contract risks • Prepares and reviews teaming agreements (TAs), joint venture agreements, master service agreements, and non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) • Assists in preparing contract-related sections of proposals, including representations and certifications, fee determinations, and cost/price narratives • Participates in negotiations of prime contracts, subcontracts, task orders, and modifications • Leads or supports pre-award internal kick-off meetings and transition from sales to execution • Supports project teams in complying with contractual and administrative requirements throughout the project lifecycle • Assist with project enrollment in internal financial and contracting systems • Coordinates with client contract administration staff (e.g., Contracting Officers, Contract Specialists, DCMA) to process authorizations, modifications, and amendments and to resolve contractual issues • Tracks funding ceilings, deliverables, options, and performance milestones • Prepares and reviews contractually significant correspondence and notices • Assists in the preparation and submission of Requests for Equitable Adjustment (REAs), claims, and other complex contract actions • Partners with finance and project controls to monitor contract performance, burn rates, and funding status • Supports audits, internal reviews, and government reporting requirements (e.g., DCAA, DCMA) • Coordinates with Legal, Compliance, Risk Management, Insurance, HR, IT, Sales, Finance, and Project Controls to address contractual issues • Participates in compliance with Truthful Cost or Pricing Data and Services Contract Act requirements, as applicable • Assists with subcontracting compliance, flow-downs, and consent requirements in coordination with subcontract administrators • Develops and delivers federal contracts training and guidance for internal stakeholders on a periodic basis • Contributes to continuous improvement of contract administration policies, procedures, and best practices • May provide functional guidance or mentorship to Contracts Specialists or junior staff Skills • Bachelor's degree • 7 years of related experience • Domestic and/or international travel may be required. The frequency of travel is contingent on specific duties, responsibilities, and the essential functions of the position, which may vary depending on workload and project demands • Equivalent additional directly related experience will be considered in lieu of a degree • Experience managing federal service-based contracts with agencies such as FEMA, EPA, USACE, and/or Department of Defense (DoD) components (e.g., U.S. Army, Air Force, Navy, or other military departments) • Strong knowledge of FAR, DFARS, and agency-specific supplements • Experience negotiating and administering multiple federal contract types (e.g., IDIQ, MATOC, cost-reimbursable, fixed-price) • Excellent written and verbal communication, negotiation, and organizational skills • Proven ability to manage competing priorities and operate effectively in a fast-paced, matrixed environment • Demonstrated strong problem-solving and analytical skills, with the ability to evaluate complex contractual issues and develop practical, business-focused solutions. Ability to think creatively and exercise sound judgment when addressing novel or ambiguous contracting scenarios • Demonstrated ability to work effectively as a team player within the contracts function and cross-functionally with project, legal, finance, compliance, and operations teams. Demonstrated ability to foster collaboration, share knowledge, and contribute to a positive team culture • Strong collaboration skills and a customer-service orientation when supporting internal and external stakeholders • Proven experience developing and delivering training or mentoring others in federal contract compliance and best practices. Demonstrated commitment to continuous knowledge-sharing across the enterprise • Experience with CLM systems and enterprise systems (e.g., Oracle, Salesforce). Demonstrated ability to leverage technology, including CLM tools, automation, and emerging AI-enabled solutions, to improve contract administration efficiency, accuracy, and risk management • Familiarity with DCMA and DCAA processes • NCMA Certified Professional Contracts Manager (CPCM), Certified Federal Contracts Manager (CFCM), or ability to obtain certification within one year of onboarding • Interest in or experience supporting innovation in contract processes, templates, workflows, or knowledge management Company Overview • CDM Smith is an engineering and construction firm that offers environmental, transportation, and energy-smart solutions and facilities. It was founded in 1947, and is headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, USA, with a workforce of 5001-10000 employees. Its website is https://www.cdmsmith.com.