Description
Associate Director for Contract Administration - Planning, Design, and Construction
Facilities & Services
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Job Summary
The Associate Director for Contract Administration oversees the contract administration function of Planning, Design, and Construction team and the procurement of construction-related services, including development and implementation of policies and procedures related to the procurement of construction and construction-related services in accordance with university policy and the Illinois Procurement Code.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Develop and implement policies, procedures and objectives related to the procurement of construction and construction-related services for Capital Programs, JOC and Contractor Services.
- Manage the bid and contract award phase of capital delivery including the resolution of complex procurement and contracting issues.
- Serve as subject matter expert (SME) on policies/laws, systems, processes and procedures related to bidding and contract administration. Consult and advise officials/staff regarding compliance with internal policies and procedures, all applicable Federal and State laws, and all University policies and procedures.
- Oversee and coordinate the procurement of construction contractors and Professional Services Consultants (for JOC) and ensure compliance with university policy and the Illinois Procurement Code. This includes coordinating the selection, and when applicable, developing Requests for Proposals and technical specifications.
- Manage the procedures/protocol for administration of contract documentation: contracts, bid documents, bond documentation, certificate of insurance documentation, BOT documents, etc. Ensure quality control of all documents.
- Lead with strategic initiatives, including system and process improvement initiatives and oversee implementation of procurement and contracting improvements.
- Lead the monitoring performance metrics for the department including maintaining databases of project and contract related information, analyzing data and preparing special reports to help the Director assess the overall performance of the departments and units and how well goals are being met.
- Oversee the issuance and renewal of all contracts.
- Oversee and implement general training for all staff on capital delivery process and systems.
- Provide supervision, management, training and leadership to assigned personnel to meet immediate and long-term operational needs of the contracts administration unit.
- Coordinate and collaborate with other University offices involved in capital delivery, including University Office of Capital programs and Real Estate Services and represent the unit by serving on university, campus and departmental committees as assigned.
- Monitor and review federal, state and University rules and regulations affecting contract administration and procurement of construction related services.
- Oversee response to internal/external audits, FOIA and IDOL requests for information and the Contractor Prequalification process.
Additional Physical Demands
This position is expected to support the Mission, Vision, Values and Guiding Principles of Facilities & Services.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in business administration, management, or a field related to the position.
- Six (6) years of professional business, financial, and/or managerial work experience.
- Demonstrated experience in procurement and/or contract administration of construction and/or construction-related services.
- Experience writing RFP's and technical specifications, contracts review, negotiation and development.
Preferred Qualifications
- Contract administration and contract management experience. Experience with procurement and contract administration within the University of Illinois system. Two years of contract administration level experience.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- Knowledge and familiarity of the Illinois Procurement Code and the Procurement Rules, specifically as it relates to the procurement of construction and construction-related services.
- Advanced knowledge of computer applications such as Excel, Access and experience with construction project management and financial software.
- Demonstrated knowledge and experience with capital construction delivery and related processes.
- Demonstrated managerial capability to oversee organizational activities and staff. Excellent written and verbal communications skills.
- Demonstrated data management, reporting and analytical skills. Ability to work independently and while meeting stringent deadlines and responding to matters of urgency.
- A thorough knowledge of computer applications and programs.
Appointment Information
This is a 100% full-time Civil Service Associate Director for Contract Administration position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible after March 17, 2026. The budgeted salary range for this position is $100,000 - $117,500.
For more information on Civil Service classifications, please visit the SUCSS web site at www.sucss.illinois.gov/pages/classspec/default.aspx.
Application Procedures & Deadline Information
Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on March 17, 2026. Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting. In order to be considered as a transfer candidate, you must apply for this position. Applications not submitted through jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. If required by the position, transcripts or other documentation of credentials are to be provided no later than the first day of employment. For further information about this specific position, please contact Ken McCray at 217-300-6211, or email klmccray@illinois.edu. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.
At the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign - the state’s flagship public university and one of the world’s leading research institutions - every staff member helps shape what’s next. Founded in 1867, Illinois is home to a vibrant community of 59,000 students from all 50 states and 129 countries, supported by 15 colleges and instructional units, more than 20 research institutes, and one of the most comprehensive student service ecosystems in the nation. Whether you’re empowering first-generation students, fueling breakthrough innovation, or strengthening communities across Illinois and beyond, your work here has a far-reaching and deeply meaningful impact. The university offers a highly competitive benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and financial security. Join a top 10 public university that has launched over 330 startups and continues to redefine excellence - where the Illinois Value Proposition ensures that your contributions are recognized, your potential is nurtured, and your career can thrive.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position; however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.
This position is intended to be eligible for benefits. This includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.
The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.
Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodation portal, or by contacting the Office for Access & Equity at 217-333-0885, option #1, or accessibility@illinois.edu.
Requisition ID: 1035009
Job Category: Civil Service
Apply at: jobs.illinois.edu
