Senior Manager, Contracts

NSTXL (National Security Technology Accelerator)•Washington, DC

1d•$140,000 - $175,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Senior Contracts Manager manages and oversees an assigned team and portfolio of OT (Other Transaction)–based projects focused on prototyping emerging technologies for defense applications. Reporting to the Director, Contracts, the Senior Manager is responsible for oversight, management, and support of assigned team members, including appropriate delegation of tasks, assignments, and review and approval of agreement documentation and related memoranda to ensure compliance with policies, regulations, and statutes. The Senior Manager works closely with senior leadership, program managers, marketing, and finance to mitigate risk and ensure that all agreement obligations are met. The role requires a strong contracting skillset combined with customer service and problem-solving capabilities. The individual must have extensive knowledge of Government contracting requirements, processes, and associated documentation, along with a strong understanding of the contract lifecycle, contract types, and applicable regulations.

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration, Finance, Law or related field.
Active TS/SCI clearance
7+ years of Government or Department of War (DoW) contracting experience
3+ years of supervisory or team management experience
Direct experience managing a government-centric contracting portfolio and DoW acquisition policy related to R&D efforts and/or alternative contracting methods
Ability to analyze risk, make sound business judgments, and develop effective strategies
Demonstrated expertise in contract-related communications and research
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills (written and verbal)
Deep understanding and practical experience with FAR, DFARS, and other relevant regulations and instructions
Experience managing contracts and projects from inception to completion
Proven ability to build relationships and collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and stakeholders
Direct experience negotiating terms and resolving conflicts
Strong ability to ensure compliance with terms and conditions and protect sensitive information
Ability to manage multiple deadline-driven tasks and projects simultaneously
Ability to adapt to changing regulations, policies, and project requirements
High level of accuracy and attention to detail in contract documentation and management
High level of emotional intelligence and ability to analyze complex situations and develop effective solutions
Strong proficiency with contract management systems and Microsoft Office Suite

Nice To Haves

Direct experience with Other Transaction agreements (10 U.S. Code § 4021 & 4022)
Previous experience as Contracting Officer or Agreements Officer
Certification from National Contracting Management Association (or equivalent)
Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act (DAWIA) Level III in Contracting (or equivalent)
Previous experience briefing or presenting strategies to senior leadership and/or executive-level management

Responsibilities

Contract Management and Execution
Serves as agreement subject matter expert on OTs and acts as the primary liaison between the organization and performers and/or customers across the assigned portfolio throughout the project lifecycle.
Holds signature authority and is responsible for reviewing, executing, and approving assigned actions up to their delegated approval threshold.
Reviews and approves agreements to ensure compliance with Company policies, legal requirements, and federal contracting regulations and statutes.
Reviews agreement terms to identify potential risks and monitors performance to ensure compliance within contractual and regulatory frameworks.
Examines supporting materials and agreement documentation, conducts research, and provides authoritative guidance.
Prepares high-quality documentation, correspondence, and presentations in support of contract actions.
Ensures contract execution is timely, compliant, and aligned with both customer expectations and organizational objectives.
Negotiation and Risk Management
Leads and manages complex contract negotiations, effectively communicating and advocating for the interests of the organization while achieving balanced outcomes.
Provides guidance, strategy, and support to team members during negotiations with performers and customers.
Provides troubleshooting and well-supported recommendations to resolve contractual or performance issues and monitors implementation of resolutions.
Applies sound judgment in evaluating risk and advising on appropriate courses of action in dynamic contracting environments.
Team Leadership and Oversight
Provides oversight, management, and support to assigned team members, including delegation of tasks, assignments, and review/approval of agreement documentation.
Provides training, mentorship, and guidance to team members to support development and performance.
Drives team accountability, consistency in execution, and adherence to contracting standards and processes.
Stakeholder Engagement and Collaboration
Engages, informs, and collaborates with internal stakeholders to tailor strategies and services in support of customer missions.
Builds and maintains effective working relationships with government customers, performers, and internal teams.
Provides relevant training to internal and external stakeholders as needed.
Ensures alignment across stakeholders to support successful program and contract outcomes.
Compliance and Documentation
Ensures the team maintains accurate, thorough, and complete contract records in compliance with contractual, reporting, and regulatory requirements.

Benefits

Health Insurance: Medical and dental – company pays 92% of premiums for individual coverage and for family coverage
Vision Insurance: Fully covered
Retirement Plans: 401(k) with employer match up to 4%
Paid Time Off: Paid sick and safe leave, paid floating holidays, and generous vacation
Basic Life & AD&D policy company paid
Voluntary Life
Flexible & remote work structure
Wellness reimbursement plan & mental health support
Community sponsorships
Donation matching
Professional development allowance