Contract Specialist (Baytown/San Antonio, TX)

Sterling Crane LLC

As a part of the global industrial organization Marmon Holdings—which is backed by Berkshire Hathaway—you’ll be doing things that matter, leading at every level, and winning a better way. We’re committed to making a positive impact on the world, providing you with diverse learning and working opportunities, and fostering a culture where everyone’s empowered to be their best.

Founded in 1954, Sterling Crane has been one of North America’s premier leaders in the heavy lift industry offering operated and bare rentals, sales, parts, and unparalleled service to all our customers. We boast one of the largest inventories of modern lifting equipment in North America, in excess of 1000 units.
Job Overview
The Contract Specialist is responsible for managing the lifecycle of contracts and agreements for Sterling Crane USA, ensuring compliance with company policies, legal requirements, and industry standards. This role requires a deep understanding of the crane and heavy lifting industry, including the specific risks, regulatory requirements, and operational challenges associated with crane operations and maintenance. The Contract Specialist will work closely with the sales, operations, and legal teams to facilitate contract negotiations, drafting, review, and execution.

Key Responsibilities

Contract Drafting and Review

• Act as the point of contact in conjunction with Vice President & General Manager for contractual matters and draft contract or commercial change notices
• Draft, review, and modify contracts, including customer agreements, vendor agreements, rental agreements, and service contracts, ensuring alignment with Sterling Crane’s operational needs and legal standards.
• Incorporate industry-specific terms related to crane operations, safety regulations, equipment maintenance, and insurance requirements.
• Ensure all contracts comply with applicable laws, including OSHA regulations, state and federal safety standards, and industry best practices.
• Have working knowledge in dealing with T&M, Unit Price and Lump Sum contracts.
• In conjunction with other departments, assist in tracking complex negotiations, contract renewals and track all contract changes.

Contract Negotiation

• Collaborate with internal stakeholders, such as sales, operations, and legal teams, to negotiate contract terms that align with Sterling Crane’s business objectives and risk management strategies.
• Engage with clients and vendors to address contract-related concerns, ensuring mutually beneficial agreements.
• Identify and implement cost-saving measures without compromising service quality.

Risk Management

• Identify and mitigate risks associated with crane operations, including liability, safety, and environmental concerns.
• Ensure that all contracts include appropriate indemnity, insurance, and liability clauses tailored to the specific risks of crane services.
• Assist the central services team with insurance Certificate of Insurance (COI) requests and ensure the appropriate wording is used.

Contract Administration

• Maintain organized records of all contracts, amendments, and related documents in the company’s contract management system.
• Monitor contract performance, deadlines, and renewals, and coordinate with relevant departments to ensure compliance with contract terms.
• Prepare reports on contract status, performance, and compliance issues for management review.
• Monitor and update management on contractual escalation dates and potential opportunities.

Compliance and Legal Support

• Ensure that all contracts adhere to company policies and legal requirements, including industry-specific regulations.
• Assist legal counsel in resolving contract disputes and claims, providing necessary documentation and support.
• Stay updated on changes in laws, regulations, and industry standards that may impact contract terms and company operations.

Collaboration and Communication

• Work closely with project managers, site supervisors, and safety officers to understand the operational needs and risks associated with each project.
• Communicate effectively with clients, vendors, and internal teams to ensure all parties understand and adhere to contract obligations.
• Lead and manage a team of Branch Administrators, Marketing & Business Development Coordinators, Central Services Administrators and Database Administrators.
• Assign tasks, monitor work performance, and provide training and development as needed.
• Coordinate with and assist other departments as required.
• Conduct regular team meetings to discuss issues and areas of improvement.
• Additional duties and responsibilities as required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Law, or related field.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in contract administration, preferably within the construction, heavy equipment, or crane industry.
• Strong understanding of contract law, particularly as it applies to the crane and heavy lifting industry.
• Familiarity with industry-specific regulations, including OSHA standards and safety requirements.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and organizational skills.
• Proficiency in contract management software and MS Office Suite.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple contracts simultaneously.

Work Environment

• Office-based with occasional site visits to crane operation locations.
• May require travel to meet with clients, vendors, or legal counsel.

Sterling Crane USA is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
We encourage all qualified individuals to apply. We offer competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for professional growth in a dynamic and growing company.

Benefits Package

• Medical, Dental and Vision
• 401K with Company match
• Company-paid employee and dependent life insurance
• Holiday Pay
• Vacation Pay
• Marmon Employee Discount Program

Following receipt of a conditional offer of employment, candidates will be required to complete additional job-related screening processes as permitted or required by applicable law.

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all applicants will be considered for employment without attention to their membership in any protected class. If you require any reasonable accommodation to complete your application or any part of the recruiting process, please email your request to [email protected], and please be sure to include the title and the location of the position for which you are applying.