Senior Contracts Administrator

About Tuatara Structures

Tuatara Structures is a respected leader specialized in the design and construction of structural steel buildings, focusing on large-scale industrial, commercial, and agricultural projects. Established in 2014, the company has earned a reputation for speedy, clear, and disciplined project delivery, emphasizing partnerships that ensure strong returns on investment and lasting assets. The team prides itself on superior service and quality outcomes within the industry.

Role Overview

We are seeking a Senior Contracts Administrator to oversee the commercial management of designated projects. This involves procurement, subcontractor coordination, cost monitoring, handling variations and claims, comprehensive reporting, and project close-out activities. The position includes providing day-to-day leadership and mentorship to junior staff while enhancing consistency within the commercial team.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage full commercial scope from tender handover to project finalization.
• Review budgets, contracts, procurement plans, and project risks at each job's onset.
• Develop and maintain procurement schedules and clearly define trade package scopes.
• Conduct tender evaluations, clarify details, and negotiate with subcontractors.
• Monitor committed costs, forecast final costs, manage cash flow, and track margins.
• Prepare, evaluate, and negotiate all variations and claims effectively.
• Ensure meticulous contract administration and maintain well-organized commercial records.
• Support project teams in making informed commercial decisions to minimize leakage, rework, and downstream risks.
• Lead, guide, and coach junior contract administrators.

Candidate Profile

• Possess over eight years of experience in quantity surveying, contract administration, or commercial management, preferably within the commercial or industrial sectors.
• Familiarity with New Zealand construction contracts, subcontracting procedures, procurement processes, and variation management.
• Demonstrated ability to oversee the commercial performance of multiple simultaneous projects.
• Strong negotiation capabilities complemented by sound commercial judgment.
• Effective and confident communicator comfortable engaging with project managers, site teams, subcontractors, and various stakeholders.
• Practical and organized, able to proactively address issues with firmness and respect while independently handling responsibilities.

Additional Information

This position requires a proactive, hands-on approach and a commitment to contributing to a long-term vision. Tuatara Structures values leadership rooted in ownership and partnership rather than detached oversight. Applicants are encouraged to submit a resume and a brief cover letter explaining their suitability for the role.