Lead Contract Compliance Analyst

As a community, the University of Rochester is defined by a deep commitment to Meliora - Ever Better. Embedded in that ideal are the values we share: equity, leadership, integrity, openness, respect, and accountability. Together, we will set the highest standards for how we treat each other to ensure our community is welcoming to all and is a place where all can thrive. Job Location (Full Address): 250 East River Rd, Rochester, New York, United States of America, 14623 Opening: Worker Subtype: Regular Time Type: Full time Scheduled Weekly Hours: 40 Department: 250548 LLE-Laboratory for Laser Energ Work Shift: Range: UR URG 113 Compensation Range: $77,600.00 - $116,400.00 The referenced pay range represents the minimum and maximum compensation for this job. Individual annual salaries/hourly rates will be set within the job's compensation range, and will be determined by considering factors including, but not limited to, market data, education, experience, qualifications, expertise of the individual, and internal equity considerations. Responsibilities: GENERAL PURPOSE: Develops and implements programs, policies, and practices to ensure that all departments are in compliance with organizational and governmental standards. Maintains compliance with all country-mandated regulatory requirements. Documents legal regulations that might affect the organization's policies and procedures. Maintains the organization's ongoing relationships with regulatory commissions/authorities. Coordinates and conducts the assessment of internal controls to ensure compliance as required by regulatory commissions/authorities. Develops programs and processes to manage complaint cases brought to regulatory authorities and develops process improvements to avoid future complaints. Advances organization positions with internal and external parties. Prepares and sponsors testimony to governmental or regulatory agencies. The University of Rochester Laboratory for Laser Energetics (LLE) is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Lead Contracting Compliance Officer. This individual will ensure LLE's full adherence to federal, state, and local regulations governing contracts with the U.S. government, academic institutions, and private industry. The role requires deep expertise in contract compliance, regulatory frameworks such as FAR and DFARS, and the application of ethical business practices. The Lead Contracting Compliance Officer will be responsible for developing, implementing, and monitoring compliance programs that meet all applicable legal, regulatory, and contractual obligations, while also advising senior leadership on compliance risks, audits, and legal concerns related to contracts. This position will require collaboration with LLE leadership, the Facility Security Officer, Lead Information Security Officer, and key personnel in procurement and research administration. Additionally, the officer will work closely with the University's Office of Research and Project Administration (ORPA), Export Control Officer, Central Purchasing, Office of Counsel, and other relevant staff. The role also involves substantial interaction with external government program managers and contracting officers. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: Compliance Program Leadership : Lead the design, implementation, and ongoing maintenance of a comprehensive government contracting compliance program, ensuring alignment with all relevant laws and regulations. Contract Review & Negotiation : Oversee and lead the review, negotiation, and approval of contract terms to ensure compliance with federal, state, and institutional guidelines. Regulatory Compliance : Ensure strict adherence to the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS), and other applicable federal, state, and local statutes. Staff Training : Develop and deliver compliance training programs for staff on current regulations, compliance issues, and best practices related to government contracts. Policy Development : Draft, update, and enforce internal policies related to government contracting, ethics, and overall compliance standards. Risk Mitigation : Identify, assess, and address compliance risks, providing recommendations to senior management to mitigate legal, financial, and reputational risks. Government Liaison : Serve as the primary contact with government agencies and regulatory bodies on all compliance-related matters, ensuring timely and accurate communication. Investigations & Corrective Action : Lead investigations of suspected non-compliance or violations of contract terms, recommend corrective actions, and ensure resolution. Audit Management : Oversee and coordinate internal and external audits, ensuring findings are addressed promptly and risks are mitigated. Reporting & Documentation : Prepare, present, and submit comprehensive reports on compliance status, audit results, risk assessments, and other relevant documentation to senior leadership and regulatory agencies. Subcontractor Compliance : Ensure all subcontractors and suppliers adhere to the terms and conditions specified in prime contracts, including compliance with 2CFR200 and other relevant regulations. Conflict of Interest Management : Identify and address potential conflicts of interest, ensuring all procurement actions are aligned with institutional policies and federal guidelines. Ethical Leadership : Foster a culture of ethical conduct, integrity, and compliance throughout the organization. QUALIFICATIONS: Education: Bachelor's degree in Law, Business Administration, Finance, or a related field. A Juris Doctor (JD) or MBA is preferred. Experience: A minimum of 10+ years of experience in government contract compliance, including senior-level experience. Expertise: In-depth knowledge of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS), and other relevant