Lead Contract Engineer

Our client, a leading global energy operator, is seeking an experienced Lead Contract Engineer to support the delivery of a major LNG development project. This is a high-profile position within a large-scale EPC environment, providing contractual leadership across complex construction and infrastructure work packages. Based within the project team, the successful candidate will be responsible for managing all aspects of contract administration, contractor performance, claims management, and change control throughout the project lifecycle.

The Role
As Lead Contract Engineer, you will provide commercial and contractual oversight for significant EPC contracts, ensuring project objectives are achieved while protecting the client's commercial interests. You will work closely with engineering, construction, project controls, and site management teams, acting as the focal point for contract management activities and contractor engagement.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the administration and management of major EPC/EPCM construction contracts.
• Coordinate contract restart, mobilisation, and resumption activities where required.
• Prepare and manage contract amendments, variations, and change orders.
• Provide contractual guidance and support to project and site management teams.
• Review and assess contractor claims, develop responses, and manage dispute resolution activities.
• Maintain contractual records, correspondence, registers, and reporting systems.
• Verify contract compliance, guarantees, insurances, and performance obligations.
• Review and validate contractor payment applications and supporting documentation.
• Support commercial negotiations with contractors and subcontractors.
• Supervise and mentor Contract Engineers and Quantity Surveyors within the project team.
• Ensure all contract activities are performed in accordance with company procedures, industry standards, and governance requirements. [Pos-

Essential Experience

• 15+ years of experience in contract management within the Oil & Gas, LNG, Energy, or major infrastructure sectors.
• Minimum 10 years in a senior Contract Engineer or Lead Contract Engineer position.
• Strong experience managing large EPC/EPCC construction contracts from award through to close-out.
• Excellent understanding of contract administration, change management, claims, and dispute resolution.
• Demonstrable experience supporting major capital project delivery.
• Strong commercial awareness with the ability to balance contractual obligations against project objectives.
• Proven ability to manage stakeholders in complex, multinational project environments.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and leadership skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Commercial Management, Law, or a related discipline.
• Master's qualification in Construction Law, Commercial Management, or Business is highly desirable.
• Experience working on LNG, offshore, subsea, or large-scale energy projects.
• Strong knowledge of international construction contracts and industry-standard contracting practices.

With over 90 years' combined experience, NES Fircroft (NES) is proud to be the world's leading engineering staffing provider spanning the Oil & Gas, Power & Renewables, Chemicals, Construction & Infrastructure, Life Sciences, Mining and Manufacturing sectors worldwide. With more than 80 offices in 45 countries, we are able to provide our clients with the engineering and technical expertise they need, wherever and whenever it is needed. We offer contractors far more than a traditional recruitment service, supporting with everything from securing visas and work permits, to providing market-leading benefits packages and accommodation, ensuring they are safely and compliantly able to support our clients.