American Electric Power

Contract Specialist

American Electric Power • $98K — $125K *
Columbus, OH 43230In-Person
Legal & Accounting
5 - 7 years of experience
Today
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Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in related field + 6 years relevant work experience, or an Associate's degree with 8 years experience, or a High School Diploma with 10 years experience.
  • Advanced degree preferred, such as an MBA or Law degree.
  • Nine years of experience in contract administration and procurement is preferred.
  • Experience developing and negotiating contracts in services, construction, and engineering is desired.
  • Familiarity with Contract Lifecycle Management systems and the RFP/RFQ process.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and execute contracting strategies for major capital projects.
  • Lead complex negotiations covering commercial, legal, and financial aspects.
  • Advise leadership on contract interpretation and supplier performance.
  • Conduct risk assessments and develop mitigation strategies throughout contract lifecycle.
  • Lead cross-functional teams in the negotiation and administration of high-value contracts.
  • Identify cost-saving opportunities and optimize contracts across supplier portfolios.
  • Mentor junior Contract Specialists and provide technical guidance.

Benefits

  • Annual Bonus
  • 401(k) Match
  • AEP Pension
  • Comprehensive Benefits Package
Full Job Description
Job Posting End Date
10-03-2026
Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.

Job Summary

Are you ready to work in a supportive, fast-moving environment where your work matters? This position serves as a Contract Specialist and management professional and is responsible for complex, high-value, and strategically critical supplier contracts. The role is responsible for developing and executing contracting strategies, leading sophisticated negotiations, managing commercial risk across a portfolio of contracts, and advising leadership on contractual, operational, financial, and regulatory impacts.

The position partners closely with Legal, Supply Chain, Finance, Risk Management, Engineering, Project Management, and executive leadership to optimize supplier performance, protect company interests, and achieve business objectives. In this high-visibility position, you will provide guidance and direction to junior contract professionals and lead cross-functional teams during major contracting initiatives.

Job Description

What You'll Do:
  • Develop and execute comprehensive contracting and commercial strategies for major capital projects, enterprise procurement initiatives, and strategically important supplier relationships.
  • Lead complex negotiations involving commercial, legal, operational, regulatory, and financial considerations, securing favorable terms while balancing business objectives and risk tolerance.
  • Serve as the primary commercial advisor to business leadership, project teams, and stakeholders regarding contract interpretation, risk allocation, dispute resolution, claims management, and supplier performance issues.
  • Conduct detailed commercial, financial, and contractual risk assessments and develop mitigation strategies throughout the contract lifecycle.
  • Lead cross-functional teams in the evaluation, negotiation, administration, and closeout of high-value and high-risk contracts.
  • Identify opportunities for cost savings, value creation, process improvement, and contractual optimization across assigned supplier portfolios.
  • Develop and maintain executive-level reporting on contract portfolio performance, supplier risk exposure, claims activity, commercial outcomes, and key performance indicators.
  • Lead formal dispute resolution efforts, including claims analysis, settlement negotiations, mediation support, and coordination with Legal on litigation-related matters.
  • Perform commercial analysis of supplier proposals, pricing structures, cost escalation provisions, market conditions, and total cost of ownership considerations.
  • Establish governance frameworks for strategic supplier relationships, including performance scorecards, business reviews, and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Evaluate changing regulatory, market, and industry conditions and recommend contract modifications or risk mitigation strategies to protect company interests.
  • Lead negotiations associated with contract amendments, renewals, terminations, transitions, and supplier restructuring events.
  • Manage the commercial impacts of force majeure events, supply disruptions, regulatory changes, and other significant business contingencies.
  • Develop, improve, and standardize contract templates, policies, procedures, negotiation playbooks, and best practices to enhance organizational effectiveness.
  • Mentor and provide technical guidance to Contract Specialists and other team members regarding contract strategy, negotiation techniques, risk management, and contract administration practices.
  • Represent the organization in executive discussions with suppliers, industry partners, regulators, and external stakeholders on contract-related matters.
  • Support strategic sourcing, supplier selection, and procurement activities through commercial leadership, due diligence, and negotiation expertise.
  • Other duties as assigned.


What We're Looking For:
  • Bachelor's degree in related field of study + 6 years of relevant work experience.
  • (or) In lieu of Bachelor's degree must possess an Associate's degree in related field of study, and a minimum of 8 years of relevant work experience.
  • (or) In lieu of Associate's degree must possess a High School Diploma or equivalent, and a minimum of 10 years of relevant work experience.


Preferred Qualifications:
  • Advanced degree such as a Masters in Business Administration, Law degree or global equivalent.
  • Nine (9) years of contract administration, subcontract administration, and procurement experience.
  • Experience developing and negotiating contracts terms and conditions for contracts related to services, construction, engineering, materials and equipment installation.
  • Experience administering the Request for Proposal/Request for Quotation process.
  • Experience in work change, claims evaluation and negotiation.
  • Experience with Contract Lifecycle Management systems.


Other Requirements:
  • Physical demand level is Sedentary
  • Demonstrate significant experience in a moderate range of subject categories relevant to areas of contract responsibility.
  • Apply problem-solving skills and use creativity in problem solving.


Where You'll Work:
  • This is an On-Site role based out of Columbus, OH.


What You'll Get:
  • Annual Bonus
  • 401(k) Match
  • AEP Pension
  • Comprehensive Benefits Package


Compensation Data

Compensation Grade:

SP20-007

Compensation Range:

$98,000.00 - $125,000.00

The Physical Demand Level for this job is: S - Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally (Occasionally: activity or condition exists up to 1/3 of the time) and/or a negligible amount of force frequently. (Frequently: activity or condition exists from 1/3 to 2/3 of the time) to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally, and all other sedentary criteria are met.

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About American Electric Power

American Electric Power generates, transmits, and distributes electricity, serving residential, commercial, and industrial customers nationwide. AEP serves millions of customers across 11 states. It operates in the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity, providing power to residential, commercial, and industrial customers. AEP generates electricity using diverse sources, including coal, natural gas, nuclear, and renewable energy like wind and solar. The company maintains a vast transmission network that delivers electricity from power plants to local distribution systems, ensuring a stable and reliable power supply. AEP is actively involved in renewable energy initiatives, investing in wind farms and solar facilities to diversify its energy portfolio and reduce its environmental impact. Additionally, the company engages in community outreach, supporting education, environmental conservation, and various social initiatives.

American Electric Power Careers

Join the dynamic team at American Electric Power (AEP), one of the largest electric utilities in the United States, and ignite your career with a company known for its commitment to innovation and leadership in the energy sector.

Opportunities Await

At AEP, we offer a multitude of job opportunities that cater to a variety of skills and professional interests. Whether you're seeking an entry-level position or a more senior role, our diverse range of employment options ensures that there's a place for every ambitious individual in our team.

Grow and Innovate

Embark on a journey of growth and professional development with AEP. Our company is at the forefront of the energy industry’s transformation, integrating sustainable and innovative practices that not only lead the market but also contribute to a greener planet. Engage in work that challenges the status quo, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the energy sector.

Culture and Benefits

AEP is dedicated to fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion, where every team member’s contribution is valued. We offer competitive benefits that support the health, well-being, and financial security of our employees and their families. From comprehensive health benefits to professional development programs and diversity training, AEP ensures that our team is equipped for both personal and professional success.

Internship Programs

Kickstart your career with an AEP internship. Our programs provide invaluable industry experience and networking opportunities that pave the way for future employment. Interns at AEP work on real projects, learn from seasoned professionals, and gain the hands-on experience necessary to succeed in the fast-paced world of energy.

Leadership and Development

Leadership at AEP means more than guiding teams – it involves inspiring change and driving innovation. With leadership development programs, employees are prepared to take on challenging roles that shape the future of the company and the industry. Our focus on leadership and continuous improvement creates an environment where ambitious professionals can thrive.

Join Our Team

Explore the career possibilities at American Electric Power today. Search open positions that match your skills and interests. We are constantly hiring new talent and look for passionate, curious, and solution-driven team players. Prepare your resume, ace the interview, and join a company where your career can flourish.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with the latest at AEP by following our careers blog. Gain insider perspectives, industry-leading insights, and career tips that you can put to use today—all from the people who work here.

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Explore American Electric Power Jobs

Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the industry, AEP offers a dynamic work environment where innovation, leadership, and growth are part of everyday life. Join us in powering a new and brighter future for everyone.
Learn more about American Electric Power
Size
16,688 employees
Market Cap
$48.8 billion
Industry
Energy & Utilities
Net Income
$2.2 billion
Founded
1906
5 Year Trend
+0.5%
Revenue
$14.9 billion
NASDAQ
AEP
* Ladders Estimates

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