Contracts Associate 3

Western EcoSystems Technology, Inc. (WEST), a dynamic medium size environmental consulting firm with offices across the United States and Canada, is seeking a full-time Contracts Associate in our Cheyenne, WY, Laramie, WY, or Fort Collins, CO office.

WEST has a permanent core of professionals with broad experience in basic and applied ecological studies and the sophisticated analysis of natural resource data. Since its founding in 1990, the WEST team has shaped the foundation of what we do, and what we believe in through our core values and key principles. Our work matters to our clients, communities, and the environment. Join WEST and discover a company of passionate, committed, and highly motivated individuals.

Please click here to see what benefits WEST offers!

Key Details:

• Salary: The minimum base salary for this position is $55,000 and the maximum is $65,000, plus additional annual profit-sharing bonus potential. Salary may vary based on education, knowledge and experience.
• Location: This is a full-time office position, five days a week in Cheyenne, Laramie, or Fort Collins.

Position Overview

WEST is seeking an experienced Contracts Specialist to join our growing team. This role is ideal for a seasoned contracts professional who can operate with a high degree of independence and bring practical expertise to a fast-paced consulting environment. The Contracts Specialist will serve as a subject matter expert, partnering closely with the Contracts Manager and cross-functional teams to drive efficient contract lifecycle management and support organizational growth.

• Lead the preparation, review, interpretation, and negotiation of a broad range of contracts, including client agreements, subcontractor agreements, and vendor contracts.
• Independently assess and recommend contract terms and conditions, identifying risks and proposing mitigation strategies.
• Proofread and audit legal documents to ensure accuracy, compliance with company policies, and adherence to applicable legal regulations.
• Monitor and manage the full contract lifecycle, including renewals, amendments, and closeouts, to ensure timely execution and compliance.
• Develop, implement, and continuously improve contracts management processes, templates, and best practices.
• Maintain a centralized repository of key contractual language to ensure easy access and consistency across WEST.
• Provide training and guidance to staff on contract-related processes, policies, and compliance requirements.
• Coordinate with internal departments and external parties to facilitate efficient contract execution and resolve complex contractual issues.
• Conduct in-depth legal research and provide well-structured summaries and recommendations to leadership.
• Support and manage the Client Resource Management (CRM) VantagePoint system, ensuring data integrity and optimal utilization.
• Provide targeted administrative support to the Contracts Manager and senior leadership as needed.

This is a general description of the functions for this position and is not inclusive of all duties which may be associated with this role.

Qualifications & Requirements:

The ideal candidate is a self-starter with demonstrated contracts expertise who thrives in a collaborative, mission-driven environment. Successful candidates will possess:

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Legal Studies, Contract Management, or a related field preferred; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 3 to 7 years of progressive experience in professional contracting, procurement, or a related legal/business function.
• Demonstrated ability to independently negotiate and manage complex contracts with minimal supervision.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to assess risk and recommend practical solutions.
• Exceptional written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills; able to communicate effectively with clients, legal counsel, and internal stakeholders.
• Superior organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple high-priority tasks simultaneously and meet tight deadlines.
• High attention to detail and commitment to accuracy, completeness, and timeliness in all transactions.
• Proven ability to maintain strict confidentiality when handling sensitive information and documentation.
• Self-motivated with the ability to make sound independent decisions and work proactively in a dynamic environment.
• Experience developing and delivering training on contracts processes and compliance topics.

After an offer of employment is made, the candidate must successfully pass a pre-employment background check, drug screening, and DMV records check that meets WEST's minimum criteria to operate a motor vehicle on behalf of the company. A valid driver's license will be required.

WEST provides equal employment opportunities to all individuals regardless of their race, color, religion, gender identity or expression, age, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, genetics, and any protected veteran status, and any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. Further, WEST is committed to affirmative action ensuring that all individuals are treated fairly, and without discrimination in all aspects of employment, including recruitment, selection, advancement and other terms and privileges associated with employment.