Contracts Lead – Data Center Construction

Turner & Townsend
Full_time$135k-155k/year (USD)Atlanta, United States

📍 Job Overview

  • Job Title: Contracts Lead – Data Center Construction
  • Company: Turner & Townsend
  • Location: Atlanta, Georgia, United States
  • Job Type: On-site, Full-time
  • Category: Contract Management, Construction, Data Center
  • Date Posted: 2025-08-01
  • Experience Level: 5-10 years

🚀 Role Summary

  • Lead the contractual aspects of data center construction projects, ensuring compliance and mitigating risks.
  • Collaborate with procurement, legal, and construction teams to manage contracts from inception to closeout.
  • Negotiate contract terms and conditions with vendors and stakeholders.
  • Develop and refine contract management processes and tools.
  • Contribute to the development of procurement strategies and support contract award recommendations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a strong understanding of construction contracts, legal terms, and industry best practices, as well as excellent negotiation and communication skills.

💻 Primary Responsibilities

  • Contract Lifecycle Management: Oversee the entire contract lifecycle, from drafting and negotiation to execution and closeout.
  • Risk Management: Identify and address potential contractual risks and liabilities.
  • Compliance: Ensure all contractual obligations are met and projects adhere to legal and regulatory requirements.
  • Procurement: Lead the end-to-end RFP process for Construction, Equipment, and Professional Services scopes of work.
  • Stakeholder Management: Work closely with internal teams and external partners to manage contracts effectively.
  • Contract Negotiation: Lead negotiations on contract terms and conditions with vendors and other stakeholders.
  • Cost Management: Support cost estimation and change order management related to contracts.
  • Performance Tracking: Track and evaluate contract performance against established KPIs.
  • Training: Provide training and guidance to project teams on contract interpretation and compliance.
  • Claims Management: Manage claims and dispute resolution processes in coordination with legal counsel.
  • Vendor Prequalification: Participate in vendor prequalification and selection processes from a contractual perspective.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a proactive approach to risk management, strong attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively under pressure in a fast-paced environment.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Law, or a related field.

Experience: Proven experience in contract management, preferably within the construction or infrastructure industry.

Required Skills:

  • Strong negotiation, communication, and problem-solving skills.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite and contract management software (e.g., Aconex, Procore, or similar).
  • Deep understanding of construction contracts, legal terms and conditions, and industry best practices.
  • Familiarity with various contract types (e.g., lump sum, GMP, cost-plus) and delivery methods (e.g., design-build, CMAR).
  • Experience working on large-scale, complex construction projects, ideally in the data center or mission-critical sector.
  • Ability to manage multiple contracts and stakeholders in a fast-paced environment.
  • Knowledge of regulatory frameworks and compliance standards relevant to construction and infrastructure.

Preferred Skills:

  • Professional certifications such as CCM, PMP, or CPCM.
  • Familiarity with SOX controls and corporate governance standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates with experience in data center or mission-critical construction projects will have a strong advantage in this role.

📊 Web Portfolio & Project Requirements (N/A)

Note: This role does not require a web portfolio or project requirements as it is focused on contract management within the construction industry.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The salary range for this full-time role is $135K-155K per year. Ranges are determined by role and level and represent a good faith effort to provide a fair and equitable salary. This range is a reflection of base salary only, not of a total compensation package.

Benefits:

  • Competitive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance.
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
  • Generous paid time off (PTO) policy.
  • Employee assistance program (EAP) for mental health and wellness support.
  • Professional development opportunities and tuition reimbursement.
  • Employee referral bonus program.

Working Hours: The standard workweek is 40 hours, with the possibility of overtime or flexible scheduling to meet project demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: Turner & Townsend offers a comprehensive benefits package to support the well-being and professional growth of its employees.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Turner & Townsend is a global professional services company specializing in project management, cost management, and advisory services for the built environment. They operate in various sectors, including data centers, infrastructure, and commercial development.

Company Size: Turner & Townsend employs over 22,000 specialists in more than 60 countries, providing a large and diverse team to support projects of any scale.

Founded: The company was founded in 1946 and has since grown into a global leader in project management and construction consultancy.

Team Structure:

  • The Data Center team is part of the broader Infrastructure division, which includes other sectors such as transportation, energy, and water.
  • The team consists of specialists in project management, cost management, and contract management, working collaboratively to deliver data center projects.
  • The Contracts Lead will work closely with project managers, cost managers, and other contract management professionals to ensure project success.

Development Methodology:

  • Turner & Townsend follows a structured project management approach, utilizing industry-standard methodologies such as PRINCE2 and PMP.
  • The company emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement in its project delivery processes.
  • Contract management is integrated into the overall project management framework, ensuring that contractual aspects are considered throughout the project lifecycle.

Company Website: www.turnerandtownsend.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Turner & Townsend's global presence and diverse team enable it to deliver complex projects across various sectors and regions.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Contract Management Career Level: The Contracts Lead role is a senior-level position within the contract management career path. It requires a deep understanding of contract management principles, strong negotiation skills, and extensive experience in managing complex contracts within the construction industry.

Reporting Structure: The Contracts Lead reports directly to the Data Center Director or another senior leader within the Infrastructure division. They may oversee junior contract management professionals or contract administrators, depending on the team's size and structure.

Technical Impact: The Contracts Lead plays a critical role in ensuring that data center construction projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. They help mitigate risks, manage stakeholder expectations, and facilitate effective communication between project teams and external partners.

Growth Opportunities:

  • Career Progression: With experience and demonstrated success, the Contracts Lead can progress to more senior roles within the contract management function, such as Contracts Manager or Head of Contracts.
  • Technical Skill Development: Turner & Townsend encourages continuous professional development and offers opportunities for employees to expand their skills and knowledge through training programs, workshops, and industry events.
  • Leadership Potential: As a senior role, the Contracts Lead has the opportunity to develop their leadership skills by mentoring junior team members, leading project teams, and contributing to strategic decision-making processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The Contracts Lead role offers significant growth potential for experienced contract management professionals seeking to advance their careers in the construction industry.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Turner & Townsend's Atlanta office is a modern, collaborative workspace designed to facilitate teamwork and innovation. The office features open-plan workspaces, meeting rooms, and breakout areas for informal discussions and team-building activities.

Office Location(s): The Atlanta office is located in the heart of the city, providing easy access to public transportation and amenities.

Workspace Context:

  • Collaboration: The open-plan workspace encourages collaboration and communication between team members, fostering a culture of knowledge sharing and continuous learning.
  • Technology: The office is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including high-speed internet, video conferencing facilities, and industry-standard software tools.
  • Flexibility: Turner & Townsend offers flexible work arrangements, such as remote work and flexible hours, to support employees' work-life balance.

Work Schedule: The standard workweek is 40 hours, with the possibility of overtime or flexible scheduling to meet project demands. On-site presence may be required depending on client needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: Turner & Townsend's Atlanta office provides a modern, collaborative work environment that supports the success of data center construction projects.

📄 Application & Technical Interview Process

Interview Process:

  1. Phone/Video Screen: A brief phone or video call to discuss the role, company, and candidate's qualifications.
  2. On-site Interview: A face-to-face interview with the hiring manager and other team members to assess the candidate's technical skills, cultural fit, and alignment with the company's values.
  3. Final Interview: A meeting with the Data Center Director or another senior leader to discuss the candidate's fit for the role and the team's long-term goals.

Portfolio Review Tips (N/A)

Technical Challenge Preparation (N/A)

ATS Keywords:

  • Contract Management: Contract Lifecycle Management, Risk Management, Compliance, Negotiation, Stakeholder Management, Procurement, Cost Management, Performance Tracking, Training, Claims Management, Vendor Prequalification, Contract Interpretation, Contract Performance, Contract Negotiation, Contract Administration, Contract Drafting, Contract Execution, Contract Closeout, Contract Dispute Resolution, Contract Best Practices, Contract Management Software, Aconex, Procore, Microsoft Office Suite, PRINCE2, PMP, CCM, CPCM, SOX Controls, Corporate Governance, Data Center Construction, Mission-Critical Facilities, Infrastructure, Construction Industry, Construction Contracts, Legal Terms and Conditions, Industry Best Practices, Contract Types, Delivery Methods, Regulatory Frameworks, Compliance Standards, Project Management, Cost Management, Advisory Services, Professional Services, Construction Consultancy, Global Project Management, Data Center Projects, Infrastructure Projects, Construction Projects, Contract Management Roles, Senior Contract Management, Contracts Lead, Contracts Manager, Head of Contracts.

📝 Enhancement Note: Turner & Townsend values candidates with strong technical skills, relevant industry experience, and a proven track record of success in contract management roles within the construction industry.

🛠 Technology Stack & Web Infrastructure (N/A)

Note: This role does not require a specific technology stack or web infrastructure knowledge, as it focuses on contract management within the construction industry.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Contract Management Values:

  • Integrity: Uphold the highest ethical standards in all contractual activities, ensuring transparency, honesty, and fairness in negotiations and decision-making processes.
  • Expertise: Demonstrate a deep understanding of construction contracts, legal terms and conditions, and industry best practices to provide accurate and reliable guidance to project teams and stakeholders.
  • Collaboration: Work effectively with internal teams and external partners to manage contracts efficiently and achieve project goals.
  • Adaptability: Respond promptly and proactively to changes in project scope, priorities, or market conditions to minimize contractual risks and maximize opportunities.
  • Quality: Ensure that contractual documents are accurate, complete, and compliant with relevant regulations and industry standards to protect the project and the organization from potential liabilities.

Collaboration Style:

  • Cross-functional Integration: Collaborate closely with project managers, cost managers, and other contract management professionals to ensure that contractual aspects are considered throughout the project lifecycle.
  • Code Review Culture: Maintain a culture of continuous improvement by reviewing and refining contractual processes, tools, and templates to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
  • Knowledge Sharing: Facilitate the exchange of knowledge and best practices between team members to support professional development and improve contract management outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Turner & Townsend's contract management team values integrity, expertise, collaboration, adaptability, and quality in its approach to contractual activities.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Technical Challenges:

  • Contract Complexity: Manage complex, high-value contracts for large-scale data center construction projects, requiring a strong understanding of contractual intricacies and risk mitigation strategies.
  • Stakeholder Management: Navigate diverse stakeholder expectations and priorities, balancing the needs of clients, contractors, vendors, and internal teams to achieve project success.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Ensure that contractual activities comply with relevant regulations, industry standards, and corporate governance requirements, such as SOX controls.
  • Emerging Technologies: Stay up-to-date with emerging technologies and trends in the data center industry to inform contractual strategies and mitigate potential risks.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

  • Contract Management Specialization: Develop expertise in specific areas of contract management, such as procurement, risk management, or dispute resolution, to enhance career progression and professional growth.
  • Industry Events: Attend industry conferences, workshops, and webinars to network with peers, learn from experts, and stay current on best practices and emerging trends in contract management.
  • Mentoring: Seek mentorship opportunities from experienced contract management professionals to gain insights into their career paths, challenges, and successes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The Contracts Lead role presents significant technical challenges and growth opportunities for experienced contract management professionals seeking to advance their careers in the construction industry.

💡 Interview Preparation

Technical Questions:

  • Contract Management Fundamentals: Demonstrate a strong understanding of contract management principles, including lifecycle management, risk mitigation, and compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
  • Contract Negotiation Strategies: Share examples of successful contract negotiations, highlighting your ability to balance stakeholder expectations, manage risks, and achieve favorable outcomes.
  • Contract Dispute Resolution: Describe your experience with contract disputes and your approach to resolving them effectively and efficiently.

Company & Culture Questions:

  • Turner & Townsend Culture: Explain what you understand about Turner & Townsend's culture and how your values and work style align with the company's mission and goals.
  • Data Center Industry Trends: Discuss recent trends and developments in the data center industry and how they may impact contractual strategies and risk management approaches.
  • Team Dynamics: Describe your experience working in a collaborative, cross-functional team environment and how you contribute to a positive and productive work culture.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy (N/A)

Technical Challenge Preparation (N/A)

📝 Enhancement Note: Turner & Townsend values candidates who demonstrate a strong understanding of contract management principles, excellent negotiation skills, and a solid grasp of the data center industry and its trends.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Contracts Lead – Data Center Construction position:

  1. Review the Job Description: Thoroughly read and understand the job description, ensuring that your skills, experience, and career goals align with the role's requirements.
  2. Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume to highlight your relevant contract management experience, skills, and accomplishments, emphasizing your fit for the role.
  3. Prepare for the Interview: Research Turner & Townsend, the data center industry, and common contract management interview questions. Practice your responses and be ready to discuss your experience, skills, and career aspirations with confidence.
  4. Apply Online: Submit your application through the application link provided on the job posting.
  5. Follow Up: After submitting your application, follow up with the hiring manager or HR representative to confirm receipt and express your interest in the role.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and contract management industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with Turner & Townsend before making application decisions.


Application Requirements

Candidates should have a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Law, or a related field, along with proven experience in contract management within the construction or infrastructure industry. Strong negotiation, communication, and problem-solving skills are essential, as well as proficiency in contract management software.