Principal Contract Administrator - National Space

BAE Systems • Boulder, CO

2d • $101,398 - $172,377 • Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a high-caliber Lead Program Contracts Manager to provide strategic oversight and expert guidance for a large, complex portfolio of programs. In this role, you will not merely manage contracts; you will serve as a critical business architect, ensuring that our contractual frameworks enable mission success while protecting the company’s interests in a high-visibility, high-stakes environment. The National Space Strategic Business Unit works with members of the intelligence and defense communities to deliver space systems that drive mission success and provide resilient mission-level solutions to meet the customer’s greatest challenges.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field plus 6 or more years related experience.
• Each higher-level degree, i.e., Master’s Degree or Ph.D., may substitute for two years of experience. Related technical experience may be considered in lieu of education.
• Degree must be from a university, college, or school which is accredited by an agency recognized by the US Secretary of Education, US Department of Education.
• A current, active Top Secret/SCI security clearance is required with the ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret/SCI Polygraph.
• Proven track record managing large-scale, complex government contracts within the defense or aerospace sectors.
• Working knowledge of FAR/DFARS; advanced expertise in navigating these regulations within a National Security context is highly preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to lead complex negotiations with government agencies to achieve optimal business outcomes.
• Ability to communicate effectively with executive-level leadership and government officials.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with "Other Transaction Authority" (OTA) and non-traditional procurement paths.
• A methodical approach to risk management in fast-paced, mission-critical environments.
• Ability to manage multiple high-priority workstreams simultaneously while maintaining meticulous attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Lead the end-to-end lifecycle management and complex portfolio, including Firm Fixed Price (FFP), Cost Plus (CP), Other Transaction Agreements (OTA), Time & Materials (T&M), CRADA, and IDIQ contracts.
• Serve as the primary contractual authority and strategic advisor to executive leadership and program managers, translating complex contractual requirements into actionable business strategies.
• Proactively identify, evaluate, and mitigate business and legal risks through the expert negotiation of Terms and Conditions (T&Cs) to ensure program stability and corporate compliance.
• Play a pivotal role in the capture process for new business and follow-on opportunities. Lead the development of contract strategies for proposals and change orders that maximize competitiveness and profitability.
• Cultivate and sustain high-trust, professional relationships with government customers and internal stakeholders to foster long-term strategic partnerships and business growth.
• Negotiate favorable business terms that enhance shareholder value while ensuring the delivery of mission-critical capabilities to the customer.
• Apply advanced knowledge of FAR and DFARS to ensure all program activities are compliant with federal acquisition regulations.
• Establish and maintain rigorous, auditable contract files. Lead the response and coordination for internal, external, and government audit agencies (e.g., DCAA/DCMA).
• Collaborate across Strategic Business Units (SBUs) and Strategic Capabilities Units (SCUs) to align contractual strategies with broader company goals and maintain a productive, professional work environment.
• Maintain a regular and predictable work schedule.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships within the department, the Strategic Business Units, Strategic Capabilities Units and the Company. Interact appropriately with others in order to maintain a positive and productive work environment.
• Perform other duties as necessary.

Benefits

• health, dental, and vision insurance
• health savings accounts
• a 401(k) savings plan
• disability coverage
• life and accident insurance
• employee assistance program
• legal plan
• discounts on things like home, auto, and pet insurance
• paid time off
• paid holidays
• paid parental leave
• military leave
• bereavement leave
• any applicable federal and state sick leave
• company recognition program to receive monetary or non-monetary recognition awards

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior