Who we are:

At the nonprofit Urban Institute, we believe in the power of evidence to improve lives and strengthen communities. Our employees are empowered to influence policy, open minds, shape decisions and offer solutions. We encourage intellectual honesty, innovation, diversity, and mutual respect, and our analysis elevates the debate, wherever it takes place.

How you’ll contribute:

The Urban Institute’s Grants and Contracts Office is seeking a Senior Contracts Administrator to join our team. Our office’s principal duties include providing compliance support over the entire award life cycle, from proposal review to negotiating contracts, grants and subcontracts to award closeout in support of research primarily funded by private foundations, and federal, state, and local governments. We provide management and oversight of Urban’s award portfolio to mitigate risk; ensure compliance with Urban policies and procedures and funder requirements; and support best practices in award management.

Responsibilities:

• Provide support as subject matter expert over the entire award lifecycle in administering contracts, grants, subcontracts, MOUs, NDAs, and data use agreements. Draft, negotiate, and administer contracts, subcontracts, grants and private sector support requests from the proposal phase through close-out.
• Review RFPs/RFAs to identify potential compliance issues that may affect the opportunity; perform due diligence reviews of new funding entities and partnerships; review business and technical proposals for contractual, budgetary, organizational and compliance issues.
• Negotiate award terms and conditions to advocate for Urban’s best interests including protecting Urban’s intellectual property and publication rights, as well as stewardship over Urban’s Funding Principles.
• Support effective award implementation by providing guidance, and interpreting terms and conditions. Advise on award implementation issues that have contractual or business-related implications, providing options and recommendations to successfully mitigate risk and resolve issues.
• Perform independently and assume full responsibility for a portfolio of awards. Work with a significant warrant/delegation of authority to sign contracts, grants, and subcontracts. Mentor Contracts Administrators and other junior staff. Develop templates, guidance documents, and other compliance tools. Prepare for and attend management-level meetings, and contribute to interdepartmental policy, SOP and process improvement initiatives.

What you’ll bring:

The successful candidate will:

• Possess a Bachelor’s Degree; advanced degree in business or public administration, public policy, or related field preferred, but not required. Minimum five years’ progressive experience in awards management, grants/contracts administration, subcontracting/procurement, and/or proposal development. Hands-on experience with and deep knowledge of US Federal requirements required (FAR, CFR/Uniform Guidance); experience with foundation funding preferred.
• Display prior knowledge of common contract instruments, including Cost Reimbursement, Fixed Price, Time and Materials, and Indefinite Delivery types. Exposure to GSA/PSS Schedules and general knowledge of procurement process are advantages
• Exhibit proven negotiation skills, including ability to make sound decisions and apply creative problem solving
• Exercise excellent communication skills including written and oral communications, and the ability to make effective and persuasive presentations to small and large groups
• Work well under pressure in a fast-paced environment, keeping multiple priorities moving while not losing track of details; possess excellent organizational skills, strong analytical skills and sound judgment
• Use solid diplomatic skills, including the ability to be culturally sensitive and effectively manage varied internal and external relationships; maintain organizational confidentiality
• Demonstrate strong computer skills; capable use of MS Office, particularly Excel and Word; experience with JAMISPrime and Salesforce, as well as various funder databases such as grants.gov, OJP GMS, Fluxx, SAMS Domestic, etc. a plus

Remote work will be considered.

What you’ll experience:

Working in the Nation’s Capital, the epicenter of public policy among a network of p colicy experts, you can expect to have an impact on policy areas you care about and work with great colleagues who are smart, mission-driven, and collaborative. You will blend academic rigor with on-the-ground collaboration, be encouraged and supported to fulfill your potential through meaningful work that matters and, enjoy a welcoming workplace free from harassment, discrimination and intolerance.

In addition, we offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes: medical, dental, disability, and life insurance coverage. Competitive paid time off allowance, and eligibility to participate in a generous retirement savings plan plus elect a pretax benefit for commuting expenses.

The Urban Institute is committed to Equal Employment Opportunity without regard for race, ethnicity, gender, protected veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other protected status under applicable law.

The Urban Institute is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer Minorities/Women/Disabilities/Veterans.