Director of Contracts

Trust Automation•San Luis Obispo, CA

4d•$160,000 - $190,000

About The Position

The Director of Contracts leads Trust Automation's newly established Contracts Department in support of the company's $400M IDIQ prime contract and all other government contracts, ensuring comprehensive contract oversight across the organization. This senior leadership role is responsible for establishing, managing, and overseeing all aspects of government contract administration, subcontract management, and regulatory compliance. The Director will build and lead a team of contracts professionals while ensuring full compliance with FAR/DFARS requirements and maintaining audit-ready contract files across all program activities.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Contracts Management, or related field required; Master's degree preferred
10+ years of progressive experience in government contract administration
5+ years in a leadership or management role overseeing contracts teams
Extensive experience with IDIQ contracts, task order management, and subcontract administration
Proven experience managing contracts in aerospace, defense, or manufacturing industries
Expert knowledge of FAR/DFARS regulations and their practical application
Deep understanding of various contract types (FFP, CPFF, T&M, cost-reimbursable)
Experience with DCAA audits and maintaining audit-ready contract files
Strong knowledge of government subcontracting requirements and flow-down provisions
Demonstrated ability to build and lead high-performing teams from the ground up
Self-starter with excellent organizational skills and ability to prioritize competing demands
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills with executive presence
Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
Proficiency in contracts management systems and Microsoft Office Suite
Active Secret security clearance required or ability to obtain
U.S. citizenship required

Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Department Development
Establish and lead the Contracts Department from inception, developing policies, procedures, and workflows.
Build and mentor a team of contracts professionals including Government Contracts Manager, Subcontracts Manager, and Contracts Administrator
Partner with VP of Finance to develop department budget, resource planning, and performance metrics
Serve as primary liaison with external consultants and legal counsel on complex contracting matters
Develop and implement contracts management systems, processes, and best practices to ensure compliance and efficiency
Government Contracts Management
Oversee all prime contract activities from award through closeout for the IDIQ and task orders
Ensure comprehensive understanding and compliance with FAR/DFARS regulations across all contract activities
Review, negotiate, and approve contract modifications, amendments, and change orders
Maintain ultimate responsibility for audit readiness across all government contracts and subcontracts
Coordinate with DCAA, DCMA, and other government oversight agencies during audits and reviews
Subcontract Management Oversight
Oversee subcontracting strategy and execution for services including installations, training, and surveys
Ensure proper flow-down of prime contract terms, conditions, and compliance requirements to subcontractors
Monitor subcontractor performance, deliverables, and compliance through subordinate managers
Approve major subcontracts and resolve escalated subcontractor issues
Cross-Functional Leadership
Collaborate with Program Management, Finance, Legal, Engineering, and Business Development teams
Support proposal development efforts by providing contracts expertise and pricing strategies
Ensure proper coordination between contracts, purchasing, and finance for subcontractor payments and tracking
Communicate contract status, risks, and opportunities to executive leadership
Compliance & Risk Management
Maintain comprehensive knowledge of government contracting regulations and ensure organizational compliance
Identify and mitigate contractual risks across the contract portfolio
Ensure all contract files are complete, organized, and audit-ready at all times
Stay current on FAR/DFARS updates and implement necessary process changes