Contract Manager

Va Tech Foundation•Arlington, VA

25d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Contract Manager manages cradle to grave contractual activities, including preaward planning, solicitation development, negotiation, postaward administration, modifications/changes, compliance, reporting, closeout and file management. This role will serve as the primary point of contact for contract matters, collaborate with internal stakeholders and external partners, and ensure adherence to applicable laws, regulations, organization policies, FAR/DFARS, and agency specific guidelines. The ideal candidate has deep experience in federal contracting, excellent judgement, exceptional analytical skills, and the ability to navigate multiple priorities under tight timelines. Experience with small business or nonprofit organizations is strongly preferred. This position is contingent based upon contract award.

Requirements

Active TS with SCI eligible security clearance (polygraph preferred).
Bachelors degree in Business, Contract/Acquisition Management, Public Administration, or related field. Additional years of experience may be considered in lieu of degree.
7+ years of federal contracting or contract management experience, including cradle to grave responsibilities.
Demonstrated knowledge of Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR/DFARS/agency supplements) and grant management regulations.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to interface professionally with government and nonprofit stakeholders.
Proficiency in MS Office and familiarity with contract writing/management systems.
Ability to receive and implement guidance and instruction while also able to suggest improvements and work independently as needed.

Nice To Haves

Experience supporting national security, intelligence community, or classified programs.
Knowledge of cost analysis, market research, and price negotiation techniques.
Experience in a nonprofit environment with federal prime awards, subcontracts, subawards and grant funded programs.
Professional certification such as CFCM, CPCM, FACC/DAWIA.
Ability to work independently; possess a proactive, collaborative and solution oriented mindset while maintaining attention to details.

Responsibilities

Contract Administration & Compliance Manage cradle-to-grave contract activities, including solicitations, proposals, negotiations, awards, modifications, renewals, closeout, and compliance tasks.
Prepare, review, and maintain contractual documentation in accordance with organizational policy and procedures (SOWs, negotiation memoranda, justification & authorizations, reports).
Ensure compliance with FAR/DFARS, OMB Guidance, agency supplements, and other applicable regulations.
Review, interpret, and advise teams on contract terms, conditions, risks, and obligations.
Maintain accurate and compliant contract files in accordance with internal policies and applicable regulations.
Acquisition Planning & Advisory Support Support presolicitation and preaward strategy, requirements development, and market research.
Advise internal stakeholders on federal acquisition requirements and contracting best practices.
Assist in the review of cost estimates, evaluation criteria, and procurement strategies.
Stakeholder Engagement Serve as the primary point of contact for government Contracting Officers, program managers, subcontractors, and internal stakeholders to support mission needs.
Participate in preaward conferences, postaward reviews, and recurring programmatic/contractual meetings.
Provide timely communication and issue resolution with both internal and external partners.
Subaward & Vender Management Draft and manage small business subcontracting plans including pre-award planning, review and post-award management and oversight.
Support subcontractor and vendor oversight, including negotiation, compliance monitoring, and back up for invoice review.
Provide guidance on procurement related contractual issues (consultants, service contracts, modifications, etc.).
Financial & Data Management Support Finance Manager/Dept in review of invoices, financial reports, and cost data for accuracy and compliance.
Conduct basic cashflow or cost/pricing analysis in support of acquisition decisions.
Use contract and financial systems (e.g., SharePoint, enterprise workflows, contract writing tools) to maintain accurate information.
Audit Support & Risk Management Support internal and external audits; respond to audit compliance reviews and findings.
Process Improvement & Organizational Support Contribute to the refinement of SOPs, templates, and workflow improvements.
Provide backup, training, or mentorship to staff involved in contract related work when needed.