Skip to main content

Contract, Program and Project Administrators Career Pathway

Contract, program and project administrators plan and undertake the administration of contracts, organisational programs, special projects and support services.

What do Contract, Program and Project Administrators do?

Some examples of roles and responsibilities include:

  • Develop, review and negotiate variations to contracts, programs, projects and services
  • Respond to enquiries and resolve problems concerning contracts, programs, projects, services provided, and affected parties
  • Manage paperwork associated with contracts, programs, projects and services provided
  • Work with project managers, architects, engineering professionals, owners and others to ensure that goals are met
  • Advise senior management on matters requiring attention and that involve implementation of their decisions
  • Oversee work by contractors and report on variations to work orders
  • Prepare and review submissions and reports concerning the organisation's activities
  • Collect and analyse project data and report on project outcomes

 

Where do Contract, Program and Project Administrators work?

Many positions are associated with large projects such as construction and engineering, where numerous contractors are involved. Around 45% of contract, program and project administrators work in the industry, with 27% working in public administration and safety. Just over 32% work in New South Wales, 23% in Victoria, and 20% in Queensland.

How much do they earn in Australia?

The average annual salary for contract, program and project administrators in Australia is $62,250.

As these administrators gain further competencies and progress through their careers, their earning potential generally increases.

Average Salary potential
Entry-level salary: $60,000
Mid-level salary: $78,300
Senior salary: $92,000
Bonuses: $1,000 - $10,000

 

Contract, Program and Project Administrators Career Outlook at a glance

Median age is: 42 years old

" "

Employment level trends & growth - over five years

" " 

Source: https://docs.employment.gov.au/documents/australian-jobs-occupation-matrix

 

Which type of person suits this career?

This complex role involves a high level of personal attributes as well as education and training. These include but are not limited to the following:

  • Management qualities. Teamwork is central to project administration, which requires interfacing with numerous colleagues and contractors while handling varied tasks at a given time.
  • Financial literacy. Mathematical skills are needed for budgetary forecasting and management.
  • Organisational abilities. Deadlines and daily appointments are constant, so self-organisation and time-keeping are vital.
  • Logistical skills. A practical approach is valuable in this varied role.
  • Communication skills. Strong written skills are valued for processing contracts and related documentation, including briefs, proposals, and reports.
     

 

 

 

  • Verbal skills are needed for the numerous interactions with people at all levels.
  • Accuracy. A consistent approach to detail is required for all elements of large, complex projects.
  • Resilience. The ability to work under pressure on fast-moving projects is essential.

Specialisations

Some administrators may specialise in negotiating and preparing contracts on behalf of an organisation. Others may specialise in the administration of organisational programs, special projects and support services.

What are some related job titles to policy and planning managers?

  • Program manager
  • Project manager
  • Contract manager

 

What education do you need

An Associate Degree, Advanced Diploma or Diploma, or at least 3 years of relevant experience is usually needed to work in this role. Around two in five workers have a university degree. Even with a qualification, experience or on-the-job training is usually needed. A qualification in project management is valued by employers, particularly in demanding positions in civil engineering or construction. A postgraduate qualification will prepare for advancement to project manager positions.

How long does education take?

  • A bachelor degree takes 3 years full-time, or 4 years with honours.
  • A master’s degree can be obtained online in 2 years of part-time study.
  • A graduate diploma can be obtained in a minimum of 16 months of part-time study.
  • A graduate certificate can be obtained in a minimum of 8 months of part-time study.

How long does education take?

  • A bachelor degree takes 3 years full-time or 4 years with honours.
  • A post-graduate master's degree or graduate diploma can be obtained online in 16 months part-time. 
  • A graduate certificate can be obtained in a minimum of 8 months.

 

Sources

Australian Bureau of Statistics 
*Australian Standard Classification of Occupations (ASCO) 2nd Edition, ABS Catalogue No. 1220.0, p131.
**Australian Jobs Matrix, 2018 Australian Government Job Outlook
Payscale

 

100% online Project Management Courses

 

" " 



 

For more details about the SCU 100% Online project management courses, see below: