Contract administrators, also known as contract managers, are critical players in the construction industry. They are responsible for managing contracts between clients and contractors, ensuring that every aspect of a project is completed in compliance with the terms of the agreement.
In the construction industry, contract administrators act as intermediaries between the owner, general contractor, and subcontractors. They are responsible for overseeing the contracts, interpreting them, and ensuring that all parties are in compliance with the terms. They also play a critical role in resolving any disputes that may arise.
Here are some job responsibilities of a contract administrator in construction:
1. Contract Review and Negotiation
The job of a contract administrator begins with contract review and negotiation, where they go through the contracts to ensure that they are well-drafted, legally binding, and fair to all parties involved. They also negotiate the contract terms with the client and contractors to ensure they are reasonable and achievable.
2. Contract Management
After the contract has been signed, the contract administrator takes over the management of the contract. They keep an eye on the schedule, budget, and quality of the construction projects to ensure that everything is delivered on time, within budget, and at the highest level of quality.
3. Dispute Resolution
Contract administrators also play a critical role in dispute resolution. They work to resolve disputes between contractors and clients that may arise during the course of a project. With their knowledge of relevant laws and regulations, they can help parties come to a fair and reasonable resolution.
4. Documentation and Recordkeeping
Contract administrators track all documentation associated with contracts, including requests for information (RFI), change orders, and other project documents. They keep a record of these documents and submit them to the relevant authorities to ensure compliance.
5. Project Management and Coordination
Contract administrators also manage and coordinate construction projects. They play a critical role in ensuring that contractors have the necessary resources to complete their tasks, and they work to resolve any conflicts that may arise during the project.
Contract administrators are the backbone of the construction industry, ensuring that projects are completed on time, within budget, and at the highest level of quality. They are multi-disciplinary professionals, who possess a broad range of skills, including project management, contract management, budget management, legal knowledge, and dispute resolution. With their help, construction projects can be completed smoothly and successfully.