Contract Specialist

The Office of the General Counsel (OGC) provides legal support to The University of Southern Mississippi and its duly authorized officers and employees within the course and scope of University activities.
This includes providing legal advice and assistance on matters where the University is (or proposes to be) a party to a contract or other agreement to maintain compliance with applicable laws and regulations, the policies of The University of Southern Mississippi, the policies of the Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning (IHL), and associated audit guidance.
The Contract Specialist will assist the OGC in the delivery of legal services to University units and employees by providing skilled expertise with contracts and legal agreements, including providing review and revisions, to meet the increasing regulatory and compliance obligations of the University.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities Coordinates with the Office of the Vice President for Finance and Administration (VPFA) and administrative units thereunder, including Procurement and Contract Services and Physical Plant, on legal review and management of contracts.
Under attorney supervision, provides initial review, analyzes, revises, and negotiates agreements related to the University obtaining goods and/or services, and real property.
Ensures compliance with applicable laws and regulations, as well as the policies of the University and IHL.
Coordinates with the Office of the Provost and administrative/academic units thereunder (Academic Affairs), including University Colleges and Schools, on legal review and management of contracts.
Under attorney supervision, provides initial review, analyzes, revises, and negotiates agreements related to the University’s academic affiliations with other entities and organizations.
Ensures compliance with applicable laws and regulations, as well as the policies of the University and IHL.
Coordinates with the Office of the Vice President for Research (VPR) and administrative units thereunder, including the Office of Research Administration, Office of Innovation Management, and Office of Research Security and Export Control on legal review and management of contracts.
Under attorney supervision, provides initial review, analyzes, revises, and negotiates agreements for research-related activities, which may include sponsored research agreements, material transfer agreements, federal contracts, industry contracts, confidentiality agreements, and related amendments.
Ensures compliance with University, State, Federal, and sponsor terms, laws, and regulations.
Stays abreast of the changes in laws and regulations, including state procurement requirements, as well as federal requirements as applicable including the Federal Acquisition Regulations and related terms.
Actively seeks information using a variety of resources, including general research on legal issues, information from related professional organizations, and active networking.
Actively engages in staff development opportunities, provides advice and training to university faculty and staff, and attends staff meetings and other meetings as appropriate.
Other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university in legal studies, business, communications, English, or related field of study, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Two years experience drafting, reviewing, redlining, and negotiating contracts or other complex documents.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Demonstrated familiarity with legal concepts associated with contractual obligations.
Excellent oral and written communication skills with ability to present and communicate effectively with a wide variety of people.
Skilled user of Microsoft Office and Adobe Acrobat.
Ability to meet deadlines.
Ability to manage multiple projects Attention to detail Strong service orientation Preferred Qualifications Advanced degree (master’s or JD) in related area of study Experience in an academic or public sector setting About The University of Southern Mississippi The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) is a comprehensive public research institution delivering transformative programs on campuses in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online.
Founded in 1910, USM is one of only 146 universities in the nation to earn the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education's "R1: Doctoral Universities - Very high research activity" designation, and its robust research enterprise includes experts in ocean science and engineering, polymer science and engineering, and large event venue safety and security, among others.
USM is also one of only 37 institutions in the nation accredited in theatre, art and design, dance and music.
As an economic driver, USM generates an annual economic impact of more than $600 million across the state.
USM welcomes a diverse student body of more than 14,000, representing 71 countries, all 50 states, and every county in Mississippi.
USM students have collected four Truman Scholarships and 37 National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowships, while also leading Mississippi with 27 Goldwater Scholarships, an honor that recognizes the next generation of great research scientists.
Home to the Golden Eagles, USM competes in 17 Division I sports sponsored by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).
For more information, visit www.
usm.
edu.
As an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity employer/Americans with Disabilities Act institution, The University of Southern Mississippi encourages minorities, women, veterans and persons with disabilities to apply.