Senior Legal Contracts Administrator (Contract Negotiator)

GEA Mechanical Equipment US, Inc., part of the global GEA Group—one of the world’s largest systems suppliers for the food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries—has an exciting opportunity for a highly skilled Senior Legal Contracts Administrator to join our team. This role is critical in supporting our business operations by ensuring contracts and agreements are properly drafted, reviewed, and negotiated in line with company standards and risk management practices. We are looking for a detail-oriented professional with strong legal and commercial acumen, excellent communication skills, and a proactive approach to contract administration. Responsibilities / Tasks GEA Group, founded in Germany in 1881, is a global leader in engineering solutions, serving industries such as food and beverage, pharma, dairy, and more. With over 18,000 employees worldwide and a strong U.S. presence since 1929, GEA combines the heritage of a well-established company with the innovation of a forward-thinking industry leader. At GEA, we’re not just building equipment, we’re building lasting careers with an average employee tenure range from 8 + years, reflecting the strong culture, growth opportunities, and support we provide. Start strong – Medical, dental, and vision coverage begins on your first day Recharge and refresh – Enjoy 12 paid holidays, including a flexible floating holiday, and 136 hours of PTO to relax or explore Invest in your future – A 7% 401(k) employer match helps grow your retirement savings faster Keep learning – Take advantage of tuition reimbursement to further your education or skillset Live well – Our wellness incentive program rewards healthy habits Get support when you need it – Access to a confidential Employee Assistance Program for personal or professional guidance Save smart – Flexible Health Savings and Spending Accounts to manage out-of-pocket expenses At GEA, we don’t just offer jobs, we offer opportunities to thrive, grow, and make an impact. Your responsibilities include: Draft, review, and negotiate a wide range of commercial contracts, including sales agreements, purchase orders, distributor and sales representative agreements, confidentiality agreements, and related legal documents. Interpret contractual terms and conditions in accordance with GEA’s contracting standards, business objectives, and applicable laws. Advise internal stakeholders on contractual rights, obligations, risks, and opportunities, ensuring alignment with company policies and compliance requirements. Actively participate in GEA’s internal risk review process, providing clear input and recommendations. Negotiate critical contract provisions such as warranties, indemnities, force majeure, limitations of liability, and negligence clauses. Collaborate with cross-functional teams across multiple cultures and geographic regions, building strong working relationships with internal stakeholders and external partners. Support continuous improvement in contract management processes and ensure consistency in contractual standards and practices. Your Profile / Qualifications Minimum of 5 years’ experience in contract NEGOTIATION, administration, procurement, or related roles. Prior legal experience is highly preferred. Proven hands-on experience drafting and negotiating contract terms and conditions. Strong knowledge of the fundamentals of contract law and the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) , with the ability to apply these principles to diverse commercial transactions. Experience working with various contract types and negotiation scenarios. Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to simplify complex issues for diverse audiences. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to propose innovative solutions. High level of integrity, independence, and initiative; capable of managing priorities and meeting deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a global, multicultural environment. Preferred Background: Candidates do not necessarily need a law degree or paralegal certification. Professionals currently serving as Contract Administrators, Contract Officers, Purchasing Agents, or Buyers with significant experience in contract drafting and negotiation are strongly encouraged to apply. At GEA, we don’t just offer jobs—we offer opportunities to thrive, grow, and make an impact. The typical base pay range for this position at the start of employment is $80,000 - $122,000. GEA Group has different base pay ranges for different work locations within the United States. The pay range is not a guarantee of compensation or salary. The estimated range is the budgeted amount for the position. Final offers are based on various factors, including skill set, experience, location, qualifications, and other job-related reasons. You may be eligible for additional rewards. GEA is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will therefore receive consideration for employment without regard to age, sex, race, color, religion, world view, national origin, genetics, disability, gender identity, marital status, sexual orientation, veteran status or any other protected characteristic required by applicable law. Applicants with disabilities are welcome and will be given special consideration if they are equally qualified. Please note: This position is based in the United States and does not offer visa or work sponsorship. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. without current or future sponsorship. #Engineeringforthebetter Did we spark your interest? Then please click apply above to access our guided application process.