Contracts Negotiator

Metropolitan Council•390 Robert St. N St. Paul, MN

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Contracts Negotiator drafts, reviews and negotiates non-standard agreements on behalf of the Metropolitan Council. This position approves negotiated changes to the Council's standard language contract or PO terms and conditions and develops standard template agreements, terms and conditions to use in Council-wide procurements. This position is responsible for coordinating contract review processes across departments and external to the Council, and works closely with Risk Management (Risk), the Office of General Counsel (OGC), and others to ensure that the Council's contractual obligations successfully limit the Council's risk, protect the Council's interests and comply with applicable laws and Council policies and procedures.

Requirements

Juris Doctorate degree
four years of experience in reviewing, drafting and negotiating contracts, and evaluating language for conformance with law.

Nice To Haves

Experience working and collaborating in a diverse, multicultural, and inclusive environment.
Contract development project management or procurement experience with a government entity or in a large complex private company where regulations were applicable.
Experience working with federal or state regulations.
Ability to utilize Microsoft 365.
Ability to read, analyze, and interpret professional journals, technical procedures, and government regulations.
Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals.
Ability to effectively prepare and present information and respond to questions from diverse groups of customers or clients.
Ability to calculate figures in amounts such as discounts, interest, and percentages.
Ability to apply concepts of introductory algebra and geometry.
Ability to work under high-pressure situations with all levels of the organization while adhering to procurement policies and procedures.
Skilled in project management and the ability to lead teams and communicate effectively both written and orally.
Organizational and multi-tasking skills.
Skilled in dealing with others, both inside and outside of the department.
Interactions with others generally require influencing, instructing, and negotiating with individuals to gain their understanding, cooperation, and action.

Responsibilities

Independently review nonstandard contracts and proposed edits to standard contract terms for compliance with Council policies and procedures and applicable law as well as to minimize risk.
Draft nonstandard contracts for special projects in circumstances when the Council's template agreements do not adequately meet the needs of the project.
Facilitate review and approval by internal and external parties, including Risk, OGC, other government entities or private parties as applicable.
Provide guidance and advice on procurement policies, procedures, and rules as well as briefing OGC on critical path items.
Perform other related duties as assigned.