WHC Energy Services – A Surerus Murphy Company (WHC) is seeking an experienced Contracts Manager to oversee and manage all contractual agreements across our Pipeline, Facilities, and Renewables sectors. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in construction and energy-sector contracts, commercial management, industry standards, client requirements, and commercial risk management. This role ensures that contractual obligations align with company objectives and industry expectations while providing oversight of contract performance, change management, subcontract administration, and commercial reporting. The Contracts Manager will work cross-functionally to support multiple sectors and contribute to compliance, risk mitigation, and profitability.
Key Responsibilities
- Contract Drafting & Negotiation
Draft, review, and negotiate subcontracts, procurement agreements, and service contracts across all sectors; contribute to prime contract negotiations with commercial and risk input while legal support leads formal execution.
Collaborate with procurement, finance, operations, and legal support to structure contracts that meet business goals.Negotiate terms that balance risk, cost efficiency, and alignment with company objectives.Contract Administration & Performance OversightEnsure accurate contract documentation, correspondence, logs, and reporting are maintained.
Monitor contract performance, deadlines, deliverables, and commercial terms to ensure obligations are met.Support project managers with commercial inputs for progress tracking, forecasting, and reporting.Administer subcontractor payment processes, including valuation of applications, change orders, and approvals.Change Management & ClaimsIdentify, track, and manage contract changes to minimize cost and schedule impacts.
Support and, where appropriate, lead change order negotiations, entitlement reviews, and cost / time impact assessments.Provide support in the preparation and defense of claims, back-charges, and dispute resolution.Ensure timely notifications and documentation of contractual issues with clients, subcontractors, and suppliers.Prepare monthly subcontract liability reports, commercial management updates, and risk assessments.Contribute to project management reports, including cost forecasts, accruals, provisions, and contractual status.Identify areas of contractual and commercial risk, recommend mitigation strategies, and support company-wide risk governance.Work cross-functionally with operations, procurement, finance, and project controls to align contracts with company values, objectives, and targets.Provide mentorship, training, and guidance to project teams on contract administration, claims, and change management.Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, subcontractors, suppliers, and community stakeholders.Position Requirements
QualificationsBachelor's degree in Business Administration, Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, Finance, or a related field; equivalent work experience may also be considered.
Professional certifications are considered an asset.ExperienceMinimum of 5+ years of progressive experience in contract management, commercial management, quantity surveying, or a related field.
Experience working across multiple sectors such as pipeline, facilities, renewables, or other large-scale infrastructure projects.Demonstrated experience with subcontract procurement, bid / tender processes, and commercial reporting.Experience supporting or leading change management and claims on large, complex, and fast-paced projects.Skills & KnowledgeStrong knowledge of contract drafting, negotiation, and administration.
Solid understanding of construction practices, commercial principles, financial controls, and project management.Ability to interface effectively with project teams and field operations to ensure contractual alignment with execution.Ability to identify and mitigate contractual and commercial risk.Proficiency in contract management tools, reporting systems, and Microsoft Office.Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple contracts simultaneously.Demonstrated ability to collaborate cross-functionally and align with company values, objectives, and targets.Working Conditions
This position is primarily office-based in The Woodlands, TX. Occasional travel to project sites will be required to support project teams and ensure contract alignment. Travel is generally limited to short trips of a few days per month, though frequency may vary depending on project needs.
Reporting Relationships
The Contracts Manager reports to the Vice President of Project Controls & Contract Management.
EEO Statement
WHC Energy Services is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veterans' status, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Additional Details
Seniority level : Mid-Senior levelEmployment type : Full-timeJob function : ManagementIndustries : ConstructionReferrals increase your chances of interviewing at WHC Energy Services.
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