Contracts Manager

Overview Worker Type: Regular. Job Description Summary: The Contracts Manager position requires complex thinking skills and a deep understanding of contract management processes and regulations as they pertain to complex aerospace projects. You will partner closely with cross‑functional teams, including legal, finance, procurement, and engineering, to streamline contract workflows, mitigate risks, and ensure the execution of agreements that support business goals. Responsibilities Partner with the Operations, Contracts, Sales, Strategy & Marketing, Finance, and Legal teams on bid and proposal preparation, contract negotiation, review, and administration for new and sustaining products and services. Perform contract management and administrative duties throughout the contract lifecycle, including proposal review and preparation, leading pre‑ and post‑award negotiations, executing contract modifications, initiating contract close‑outs, and providing overall support for complex, multi‑year contracts. Draft, evaluate, and negotiate various agreements such as NDAs, Sales/Purchase Agreements, Subcontracts, Consulting Agreements, License Agreements, Master Agreements, FAR‑based contracts, OTAs, and other contractual agreements. Ensure all agreements and terms comply with applicable regulations, requirements, and company policies. Manage and monitor the performance of long‑term contracts and agreements. Analyze and summarize contractual obligations, commitments, and performance for internal stakeholders. Assess the impact of modifications and revisions, preparing recommendations and risk reviews for management. Coordinate flow‑downs of terms and conditions with program management, engineering, product support, finance, quality, supply chain, and manufacturing departments. Liaise with the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) and other audit agencies; lead internal and external audits. Maintain accurate contract files and documentation, ensuring data integrity in business systems. Prepare reports and participate in status reviews. Perform other duties as assigned. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. 6–8 years of experience in aerospace, defense, or government contracting environments. Current U.S. Security Clearance (Secret minimum; Top Secret preferred). Expertise in Federal and International regulations and relevant legal concepts. Significant experience in international and DoD/Federal prime government contract administration/management. Ability to work autonomously with sound judgment, proactively identifying risks and issues. Entrepreneurial focus and ability to excel in a dynamic, technically focused environment. Business acumen and a record of innovative problem‑solving. Excellent communication skills, translating between business and technical risk. Proven contract drafting and negotiation skills with FAR/DFAR knowledge, OTA knowledge, and understanding of U.S. Government acquisition laws. Broad experience with contract types: firm fixed price, cost‑type, commercial/non‑commercial, production, development, and sustainment. Broad experience with license, non‑disclosure, and teaming agreements. Knowledge of Truthful Cost or Pricing Data (FAR Part 15). Excellent interpersonal, written, verbal, and presentation skills. Collaborative approach that inspires confidence among co‑workers and customers. Federal Contract Manager (CFCM) certification (preferred). Advanced degree preferred. Strong emotional intelligence and judgment, rapid fact evaluation, and the ability to recommend defensible paths forward. Organized, professional conduct, and strong finance and accounting familiarity. Capacity to thrive in a fast‑paced, deadline‑driven environment; initiative and drive to accomplish goals. Effective problem‑solving, analytical, interpersonal, and communication skills. Physical Demands The role requires an office environment with frequent sitting, standing, and use of a computer and telephone. Ability to lift up to 10 lbs. and perform tasks such as stooping, reaching, and bending is necessary. Travel to sites or programs may be required. Environmental Conditions Office setting with standard conditions; requires routine computer use, telephone communication, and occasional travel. Legal & Security Requirements U.S. citizenship required. Must be able to travel within the Continental U.S. and internationally when required. Secret clearance required (Top Secret preferred). Clearance level: Secret. Access to ITAR and EAR controlled information; applicant must qualify as a U.S. person or have export license approval. Salary range: $101,000 – $143,325. Benefits Medical, dental, and vision coverage. 401(k) with company matching. 9/80 work schedule. Paid holiday shutdown. EEO Statement AeroVironment, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Qualified applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic data, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other legally protected status. #J-18808-Ljbffr AeroVironment, Inc.