Lead Contracts Engineer - Erbil

Location: Erbil, Kurdistan
Rotation: 28 Days On / 28 Days Off
Contract Type: 12-Month Contract
Compensation: Day Rate (USD)

An experienced Lead Contracts Engineer is required to support operational contracting and procurement activities for a major upstream oil & gas operation in Kurdistan. Based in Erbil on a rotational basis, the role is responsible for managing the full contracting lifecycle — from strategy development and tendering through to post-award contract administration and close-out — ensuring full compliance with company procedures, governance requirements, and best industry practice.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, source, and execute contract packages in line with approved procurement and contracting procedures.
• Develop contracting strategies and manage pre-qualification, tendering, evaluation, negotiation, and award processes.
• Prepare and issue tender documentation, conduct commercial evaluations, and analyse contractual and commercial qualifications.
• Act as focal point for contract holders during post-award phases, including variations, amendments, and change management.
• Manage contract administration activities, monitoring contractor performance, progress, quality, and compliance.
• Coordinate technical, operational, HSE, quality, and commercial inputs into governance and approval documentation.
• Maintain awareness of supply market dynamics, vendor performance, and supply-side risks.
• Support the development and continuous improvement of supply chain policies, procedures, and work practices.
• Assist in mentoring and developing junior or national supply chain personnel.
• Ensure compliance with governance, audit, and cost recovery requirements, maintaining a robust audit trail.
• Promote effective relationship management with contractors and suppliers to deliver sustainable value.
• Prepare and manage Service Orders and Call-Off Orders using the company ERP system.
• Liaise with internal stakeholders on legal, tax, insurance, compliance, and HSE matters.
• Uphold strict compliance with anti-bribery, anti-corruption, and ethical standards.

Candidate Profile

• Minimum 10 years’ experience in oil & gas contracting, including at least 5 years with an operator.
• Strong experience across contracts and procurement within upstream oil & gas operations.
• Drilling and well services contracting experience is a strong advantage.
• University degree (technical or business-related discipline preferred).
• Professional certification such as CIPS or equivalent is preferred.
• Strong understanding of supply chain best practices, governance, and contract management standards.
• Commercially astute with excellent analytical and negotiation skills.
• Confident managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced, operational environment.
• Strong interpersonal and stakeholder management skills in multicultural settings.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office and ERP systems.
• Fluent in English, written and spoken.

If you are interested, please apply