What to Look For in Contract Administrator Jobs

What to Look For in Contract Administrator JobsWhat to Look For in Contract Administrator JobsIf youre interested in contract administrator jobs, your timing couldnt be better.Contract administrators manage a crucial function in law firms and corporate legal departments. They draft and negotiate new contracts, solve conflicts that arise from existing contracts and oversee the closeout process when a contract has been fulfilled.They also put strong technical skills to work while managing the contract database and using other programs to create contract boilerplates, track progress toward contractual obligations, and ensure contractor payments are accurate and on time.So its no wonder that demand for these professionals in the legal field is growing. If youre one of them, this strong demand might have you leaning toward looking for a job with a new company. But how will you know if its the right opportunity? Here are a few things to consider as youre interviewing and searching for new contract administrator jobsSalary and benefitsBefore you head into interviews, visit the Robert Half Legal Salary Center to find out what other contract administrator jobs in your region are paying. That way, if you get an offer, youll immediately know if its competitive.Dont look only at the annual salary, though. Factor in the medical, dental and retirement benefits, along with any other perks you might be getting, such as free food or telecommuting. The benefits might be good enough to justify taking a slightly lower salary than you expected.Opportunities for career growthWith enough years of experience and expertise, employees in contract administrator jobs can become contract managers. If career advancement is important to you, make sure the contract department is large enough to allow you to move up and that the company is open to promoting from within.Also ensure that the firm is willing to invest in training. New technological tools for managing databases and creating contra cts are constantly being developed, and you want to make sure you can keep up with any changes that will make you more efficient and better at your job.Read the Future Law Office report Technology Reshapes the Legal Support Profession.The firms mission and cultureAs you evaluate contract administrator jobs, set aside time to learn about the organizations mission. If you believe in the firms principles and goals, youre more likely to work hard and enjoy your job.Also find out what you can about the company culture. If you prefer a more casual, easygoing workplace, youll likely find it difficult to thrive in an office where suits are required and the hierarchy is so strict that partners rarely leave their top floor offices to consult with associates and legal support professionals.The structure of the contracts and procurement departmentFinally, try to learn about the staffing structure and technical capabilities of the specific department youd be joining. You want to be sure that the res a well-equipped support staff in place to help you create and track contracts, as well as the IT tools necessary to do your job effectively.Searching for contract administrator jobs can be exciting, but it can also be nerve-wracking when youre worried about whether youre doing the right thing. If you keep these things in mind throughout the job search and hiring process, youll be more likely to choose the opportunity that fits your abilities, ambitions and working style.Subscribe to the Robert Half newsletter and youll get articles and resources to help you land a new job and succeed in your career - all sent directly to your inbox.