Contracts Manager

About Us

We are a small but rapidly growing aerospace manufacturing company specializing in precision-engineered components for commercial, defense, and space applications. Our team is driven by innovation, quality, and reliability. We are seeking a highly skilled Contracts Manager to oversee government and commercial contracts, ensure compliance, and support our continued growth.

Position Summary

The Contracts Manager is responsible for managing the full lifecycle of customer, supplier, and government contracts. This role ensures compliance with FAR/DFARS regulations, negotiates terms and conditions, oversees contract changes, and supports pricing, proposal development, and risk management. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, proactive, and comfortable working in a fast-paced small-business environment where wearing multiple hats is the norm. This position is fully on-site and requires daily presence at our Meriden facility.

Key Responsibilities

Contract Administration & Compliance

• Manage the full lifecycle of contracts from initial proposal through contract closeout.

• Ensure contract terms comply with applicable laws, regulations, and internal policies (including FAR, DFARS, and ITAR as applicable).

• Maintain accurate contract files, records, and documentation for audits and compliance reviews.

Negotiation & Communication

• Lead negotiations on pricing, terms, and conditions with customers, suppliers, and subcontractors.

• Serve as the primary point of contact for all contract-related communications.

• Collaborate with engineering, operations, finance, and supply chain teams to ensure contract requirements are fully understood and executed.

Risk Management

• Identify and assess contract risks related to scope, schedule, pricing, and regulatory compliance.

• Recommend mitigation strategies and escalate issues as needed.

• Prepare and review NDAs, Teaming Agreements, Purchase Orders, and Subcontract Agreements.

Proposal & Pricing Support

• Support the development of proposals, cost estimates, and bids for new business opportunities.

• Guide contractual requirements during the proposal process.

• Review customer solicitations (RFPs/RFQs) and ensure proposal compliance.

Performance Tracking & Reporting

• Monitor contract performance against deliverables, milestones, and financial objectives.

• Manage contract modifications, renewals, and amendments.

• Provide regular reports and updates to leadership on contract status, risks, and opportunities.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Contract Management, Law, Finance, or related field.

• 3–7 years of experience in contract management, preferably within aerospace, defense, or manufacturing.

• Strong understanding of FAR/DFARS, contract law, and government contracting practices.

• Ability to interpret complex contractual language and technical requirements.

• Excellent communication, negotiation, and analytical skills.

• High attention to detail and strong organizational skills.

Preferred

• Experience in a small business or startup manufacturing environment.

• Knowledge of ITAR, AS9100, and quality management systems.

• Familiarity with ERP systems (e.g., JobBOSS, Epicor, SAP Business One).

• NCMA certification (CPCM, CFCM, or equivalent).

Key Competencies

• Proactive problem-solving

• Strong ethical judgment

• Cross-functional collaboration

• Time management and prioritization

• Process improvement mindset

• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary Range: $95,000 – $120,000 per year (Actual salary will depend on experience, skills, and qualifications.)
• Annual bonus, if eligible
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Life Insurance
• Voluntary benefits
• Profit Sharing/401(k)
• Paid time off and holidays
• Professional development opportunities