Contracts Manager IV

JPL/NASA•Pasadena, CA

3d•$132,600 - $158,704•Onsite

About The Position

New ideas are all around us, but only a few will change the world. That’s our focus at JPL. We ask the biggest questions, then search the universe for answers—literally. We build upon ideas that have guided generations, then share our discoveries to inspire generations to come. Your mission—your opportunity—is to seek out the answers that bring us one step closer. If you’re driven to discover, create, and inspire something that lasts a lifetime and beyond, you’re ready for JPL. Located in Pasadena, California, JPL has a campus-like environment situated on 177 acres in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains and offers a work environment unlike any other: we inspire passion, foster innovation, build collaboration, and reward excellence. The Task Order Management Group within JPL’s Financial & Business Operations Directorate is responsible for managing task orders under the Caltech–NASA Prime Contract that operates JPL. We focus on day‑to‑day contract management activities, ensuring compliance with contractual requirements, and supporting JPL’s mission through effective task order administration. As a Level 4 Contracts Manager, you will play a key role in managing the lifecycle of task orders—from initiation through close-out while providing strategic guidance and resolving complex contractual issues. You will serve as a primary interface with NASA, internal stakeholders, and sponsoring agencies for task order development, management, and modification. This position requires exceptional analytical skills, independent judgment, and the ability to influence decisions across multiple organizations while working collaboratively in a highly collaborative, stakeholder‑heavy environment. This role is based in Pasadena, CA. Work is on-site.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Finance, or related field with a minimum of 9 years of related experience; OR a Master’s degree in similar discipline with a minimum of 7 years of related experience; OR PhD in similar discipline with a minimum of 5 years of related experience.
Proven track record in a managerial or project leadership role, with the ability to lead change and innovation under pressure.
High degree of attention to detail and the ability to communicate effectively across all levels of the organization.
Broad multidisciplinary knowledge of industry best practices in contract, personnel, and program/project management.
Extensive understanding and experience managing multiple government contracts.
Extensive understanding and ability to apply FAR-based contracting principals.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office.

Nice To Haves

Advanced knowledge of applicable industry and/or academic practices and standards in government contracting including different contract types such as Firm Fixed Price, Time and Materials, and other Cost Type contracts.
Active TS/SCI security clearance or ability to obtain the clearance.

Responsibilities

Independently manage a large portfolio of complex research and development task orders under the Caltech–NASA Prime Contract, ensuring compliance with contractual terms and timely execution of modifications, renewals, funding actions, and no‑cost extensions.
Coordinate and lead discussions for task order changes, funding adjustments, and other contractual matters with NASA/sponsors and internal stakeholders.
Provide authoritative interpretation of task order requirements and advise project teams on contractual obligations, risks, and compliance strategies.
Partner with pricing, business teams, legal, program management, and technical teams to resolve complex issues and ensure smooth task order execution in a highly collaborative, stakeholder‑heavy setting.
Manage preparation, review, and maintenance of task order documentation for accuracy and adherence to JPL and NASA requirements.