Contract Manager (Aerospace And Defense)

Aston Carter•San Diego, CA

2d•$120,000 - $200,000•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a highly experienced Contracts Manager to lead the administration of complex commercial and government contracts. This role is responsible for managing proposals, negotiating agreements, and providing expert guidance on contractual matters within the aerospace and defense sectors. The ideal candidate brings strong leadership, deep regulatory knowledge, and the ability to partner effectively with legal, business development, and program teams.

Requirements

A bachelor’s degree in business, law, or a related field, along with thirteen or more years of progressively complex experience in contracts management and special agreements.
Extensive knowledge of government and commercial contract administration principles and practices.
Demonstrated experience reviewing, negotiating, and recommending changes to contract terms and conditions.
Exceptional written communication and documentation skills.
Strong working knowledge of applicable regulations, including Federal Acquisition Regulations and related supplements.
Proven ability to resolve complex technical, legal, and management challenges.
Excellent leadership, communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a dynamic environment, with flexibility to support extended hours and travel as business needs require.

Nice To Haves

Experience managing international contracts, particularly in Japan, India, and Europe.
Experienced in the aerospace and defense industries, ideally working with defense primes or tier one suppliers.
People management experience, including direct supervision and team leadership.
Strong stakeholder engagement skills, partnering closely with legal, program management, and business development teams.
Familiarity with DFARS and FAR supplements, as well as special agreements such as CRADAs, MOUs, and confidentiality agreements.
Knowledge of EMS, satellite, and space systems contracts.

Responsibilities

Manage the full lifecycle of assigned contracts, including negotiation, preparation, review, approval, administration, and termination of contractual documents.
Oversee proposal preparation, contract negotiations, ongoing administration, and customer engagement to ensure successful contract acquisition and performance.
Identify legal and contractual risks, develop practical solutions, and advise leadership on resolving complex issues.
Ensure company proprietary interests are protected and that internal policies are followed when reviewing reports, papers, and technical documentation.
Review agreements and related documentation to identify potentially problematic provisions and ensure all contractual requirements are met.
Advise management on contractual rights, obligations, and interpretations of terms and conditions.
Serve as the primary point of contact for contract related activities and issues, representing the company with customers, prospective customers, and government representatives as needed.
Support the development of new business opportunities and the expansion of existing programs in collaboration with leadership.
Stay informed of applicable laws, regulations, and industry practices that impact contracts and special agreements.
Lead and develop contract personnel by supporting hiring, retention, performance, and professional growth to ensure the organization has the required expertise.
Maintain strict confidentiality of sensitive and proprietary information.
Perform additional duties as assigned to support business and compliance objectives.