Senior Contract Analyst

Job Posting: Senior Contract Analyst Location New Jersey Type: Full-Time, Hybrid position (up to 3 days a week in office) CARIAN is growing We are a proud, nationally certified woman-owned management consulting firm providing program management and business intelligence services to electric utilities. Our expertise includes managing contracts and ensuring compliance in a dynamic industry. We are currently seeking a Senior Contract Analyst to support our client's contracting processes. The Senior Contract Analyst will oversee and manage the lifecycle of contracts within our utilities sector. This role involves ensuring compliance with company policies, negotiating contract terms, and analyzing contracts to minimize risks and maximize value. The ideal candidate will have experience in utilities contract management and will work closely with internal teams and clients to ensure contract compliance and support strategic initiatives. Positions at CARIAN are full-time roles, which include comprehensive and competitive benefits (medical, dental, and vision), 401(k) matching, and the opportunity to work with a growing company. Responsibilities: Contract Development & Negotiation: Draft, review, and negotiate various contracts, including service agreements, vendor contracts, and procurement contracts, ensuring alignment with client goals and regulatory requirements. Compliance & Risk Management: Monitor contract compliance with legal and regulatory standards, particularly within the energy and utility sector, to mitigate risks and ensure operational integrity. Contract Lifecycle Management: Maintain and track all contract-related documentation and data, including amendments, renewals, and expirations, ensuring contracts are updated and compliant with current policies. Vendor and Stakeholder Coordination: Liaise with internal teams (legal, procurement, finance) and external vendors to resolve contract-related issues and facilitate smooth operations. Performance Monitoring: Analyze contract performance against benchmarks, deliverables, and KPIs, ensuring that all parties meet their obligations, and provide reports to senior management. Dispute Resolution: Assist in resolving contractual disputes, ensuring timely resolution in accordance with company policies and legal guidelines. Cost Analysis & Optimization: Provide cost analysis of contract terms and work with stakeholders to identify opportunities for cost savings and process improvements. Contract Audits: Conduct periodic contract audits to ensure data accuracy, compliance, and consistency with the company's strategic goals. Project Support: Provide contract support for project management, project controls, and construction management processes, participating from project inception to closeout. Qualifications: Juris Doctor (JD) degree preferred. Bachelor's degree in Business, Law, Supply Chain, or a related field. A Master's degree or professional certifications (e.g., Certified Contract Manager) is a plus. 6 years of experience in contract analysis and management, preferably within the utility or energy sectors. Strong understanding of contract administration and management, including expertise in contract review and interpretation. Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills. Detail-oriented with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and contract management software (e.g., SAP Ariba). Must be able to attend off-site meetings as required. Desirable Knowledge/Skills/Abilities: Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is a plus. Familiarity with FERC (Federal Energy Regulatory Commission) regulations and other industry-specific regulations. Experience negotiating contract disputes and conducting bid events. Business and legal writing experience. Experience with project management and document management software tools (SharePoint, McLaren, etc.). CARIAN takes pride in being an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, citizenship, gender expression or identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state, or local legally protected class. As a Woman-Owned Business Enterprise, CARIAN is committed to providing employment opportunities to women, veterans, and underrepresented minorities.