Manager, Defense Contracts

Manager, Defense Contracts

The Contracts Manager (Defense) leads a team of contracts professionals to manage and administer the full life cycle of contracts with and in support of the U.S. Department of War (formerly the Department of Defense). Primary responsibilities include assigning and managing workflow, managing and mentoring the Contracts team, reviewing proposals to ensure bids are compliant, serving as the escalation point internally and externally, and resolving contractual issues. The Contracts Manager will interface directly with the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA), Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA), and other internal and external customers to achieve business objectives and ensure compliance. This position is based at our Corporate Headquarters in Wood Dale, IL, with a planned relocation to the Merchandise Mart (Chicago) in early 2027.

What you will be responsible for:

• Manage the transactional and day-to-day operations of team of contracting professionals in support of company objectives.
• Independently analyze and respond to solicitations and contract awards for products issued through DLA's Internet Bid Board System (DIBBS) and other procurement platforms.
• Review and approve Contracts team member's bids.
• Serve as a point of escalation internally and externally.
• Lead negotiation on price/cost analysis, commercial item determinations, and contract exceptions with the Government customer.
• Serve as a FAR/DFARS/DLAD/Procurement Notes/DLA Provisions guiding resource.
• Respond to and independently resolve customer issues and concerns.
• Identify and independently action opportunities for internal improvement.
• Assign and manage workflow and contracts within AAR's ERP system (IFS).
• Prepare and administer correspondence, negotiation memoranda, and contract documentation to ensure timely and coordinated submission.
• Establish and maintain strong relationships both within and outside AAR.
• Identify, communicate, mitigate, and escalate risks to business leadership.
• Champion compliance with federal regulations, contract requirements, and internal standards.
• Work closely with a variety of cross-functional teams.
• Provide training and guidance to members of the contracts team as well as broader business division.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) or Bachelor of Science (B.S.) from a four-year college or university, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 5–6 years of experience in federal contract administration (experience as a Prime Contractor or Contracting Officer preferred).
• Advanced knowledge of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS), Defense Logistics Acquisition Directive (DLAD), and other regulations relevant to federal contracting.
• Demonstrated experience managing T, U, Q, and R type solicitations and contracts as well as long-term and strategic contracting vehicles (IDIQ, BOA).
• Extensive experience in the bid process (proposal preparation, submission, negotiation) as well as the contract life cycle (contract review, contract modification).

The rewards of your career at AAR go far beyond just your salary: Competitive salary and bonus package Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision coverage. 401(k) retirement plan with company match Generous paid time off program Professional development and career advancement opportunities

Physical Demands/Work Environment:

The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee may be regularly required to sit, stand, bend, reach and move about the facility. The environmental characteristic for this position is an office setting. Candidates should be able to adapt to a traditional business environment. AAR provides accommodation in accordance with applicable laws through all stages of the hiring process. If you require accommodation for any part of the application and/or hiring process, please advise Human Resources.

Compensation: The anticipated salary range for this position is $88,000 to $110,000 annually . This range reflects the base salary for candidates who meet the requirements of the role, including experience, education, and location. In addition to base pay, this role is eligible for a bonus. AAR offers a competitive benefits package, including medical/dental/vision/life/and AD&D insurance, 401(k) savings plan with employer match, paid time off and holiday pay, as well as opportunities for professional development and growth.