SMP - Contract Specialist – Major Projects

The Opportunity

At Canadian Natural, we are dedicated to driving innovation and excellence in the energy sector. As a recognized leader in Canada’s energy industry, we operate one of the strongest and most diversified asset portfolios of any independent energy producer in the world. 

Make your mark while you grow your career! As a Contracts Specialist, you'll be responsible for managing and negotiating supply chain contracts within the energy sector, ensuring compliance with industry regulations and company policies. You'll collaborate closely with internal stakeholders, vendors, and legal teams to define sourcing strategies, optimize contract terms, mitigate risks, and drive cost efficiencies. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to operations across Canada while developing your expertise in energy procurement and contract management.

• Job location: Calgary, Alberta
• Work schedule: 5 x 2, 8-hour shifts
• Safety sensitive position: No
• Application deadline: November 15, 2026 

Key Accountabilities

• Lead and support contracting strategies; manage the full Request for Proposal (RFP) process through to award, including negotiation and execution of contracts. Ensure alignment with business objectives, risk management practices, and compliance with contractual terms, conditions, and service level agreements through effective collaboration with internal and external stakeholders
• Liaise with internal stakeholders (Project Teams, Engineering, Legal, Finance, and others) to define scope, establish commercial structures, and develop appropriate contract terms
• Proactively identify, assess, and mitigate contractual and commercial risks throughout the full contracting lifecycle
• Manage contract formation and administration, including effective oversight of vendor, contractor, and supplier relationships. Control, negotiate, and administer change orders throughout the term of the agreement
• Identify opportunities through evaluation of supply management arrangements and provide recommendations to enhance value delivery to Canadian Natural
• Strengthen the role and contribution of Supply Management by supporting business units and enabling the achievement of corporate objectives
• Mentor and support the development of less experienced team members
• Establish and maintain complete, auditable contract files to ensure accurate documentation and ease of reference
• Ensure compliance with internal policies, procedures, and applicable Canadian contract law across all supply management activities

What You Bring to the Role

• Typically 10+ years of related industry experience with a University degree
• Professional designations such as Supply Chain Management Professional (SCMP), Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM), or a paralegal certification are considered an asset
• Benefit to have progressive experience in contracts management, procurement, or supply chain within the energy sector or a related industry
• Proven expertise in drafting, reviewing, and negotiating complex contracts, with strong knowledge of contract law and industry regulations applicable to the Canadian energy market
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across departments and with external vendors
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with attention to detail and a focus on risk mitigation and cost optimization
• Proficient in contract management software and Microsoft Office Suite

What We Offer

• Competitive salary, stock options, company matched stock savings plan, annual bonuses
• May be eligible for relocation pursuant to Canadian Natural’s Relocation Policy
• 100% Employer paid extended Health, Dental and Vision Benefits 
• Health & Wellness Spending Account
• Multiple volunteer opportunities within the community
• Employee & Family Assistance Program
• Access to online learning platforms for continuous learning and development
• Paid vacation and time off during Christmas week and summer Fridays

Check out our COMPENSATION & BENEFITS to learn more about what we have to offer!