Contract Specialist

Job Summary:

The Contract Specialist is responsible for managing the lifecycle of contracts critical to our 3PL operations. This role focuses on agreements with carriers, shippers, and other service providers. It requires a deep understanding of transportation and logistics, contract law, meticulous attention to detail, strong analytical skills, and the ability to effectively communicate with internal and external stakeholders. The Contract Specialist will ensure compliance with company contract policies while maximizing value and minimizing risk in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities:

• Draft, review, negotiate, and execute a variety of contracts, including:
  • Carrier agreements
  • Shipper agreements
  • Technology/software agreements
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders (e.g., sales, operations, legal, finance) to ensure contracts align with business objectives and legal requirements.
• Manage contract renewals, amendments, and terminations.
• Maintain accurate and organized contract records, utilizing Transportation Management System (TMS) and contract management software (CLM).
• Monitor contract performance and identify potential risks or opportunities, particularly concerning carrier compliance and service level agreements (SLAs).
• Research and stay up-to-date on relevant transportation regulations (FMCSA, DOT) and legal requirements.
• Develop and implement contract management best practices specific to the 3PL industry.
• Advise internal stakeholders on contractual matters related to transportation and logistics.
• Participate in negotiations with external parties, including carriers and shippers.
• Prepare reports and presentations on contract status and performance.
• Contribute to process improvements related to contract management within the 3PL context.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Legal Studies, or a related field preferred.
• 2  years of experience in contract administration, preferably within the 3PL, transportation, or logistics industry preferred.
• Strong understanding of contract law and principles, with a focus on transportation and logistics.
• Excellent negotiation and communication skills (written and verbal).
• Meticulous attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.  
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).  
• Experience with Transportation Management Systems (TMS) and contract management software (CLM) is a plus.
• Knowledge of FMCSA regulations and DOT requirements is highly desirable.

Benefits:

You may be eligible to participate in Axle’s benefits programs as they are in effect from time to time and to the extent that such plans permit within their terms and conditions. Currently, Axle’s benefits include the following:

• Health, dental, and vision (active on the first of the month following the first 30 days)
• Basic Life and AD&D Insurance - Company Provided
• 401K: Eligible after 6 months of employment
• Paid Time Off:
  • Year 1 - Eligible after 90 days: 10 PTO Days
  • Year 2: 13 PTO Days
  • Year 5: 18 PTO Days
• Paid Holidays: New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, 4th of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, the day after Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day
• Parking permit and company cellphone

Location:

• Onsite at the Axle Logistics Knoxville HQ 
  
• Open to remote and/or hybrid work with relevant prior 3PL experience