Contracts Manager

Company Overview

Vatn Systems is a group of entrepreneurs, engineers and maritime experts disrupting the autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) market with low cost, modular and expendable devices that allow customers to dramatically upscale underwater and surface operations. Using AI/ML technology to drive next generation navigation combined with advanced manufacturing techniques, Vatn AUVs increase capability, reduce personnel requirements and grow capacity to conduct long range underwater missions. The modular hardware and standardized software allows the user to match power, endurance and payload to the specific mission. Vatn arms users with the ability to bring sufficient mass to make maritime applications relevant at the size and scale the maritime environment demands.

Job Overview

We are seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Contract with a strong background in Department of Defense (DoD) contracting, FAR and non-FAR based contracting, Business to Business deals and state and local contracts. The ideal candidate will possess a proven track record of managing and ensuring compliance and payment of our contract stack. This is an in-person position.

Key Responsibilities

• Contracting Process Development and Deployment: Develop, deploy and manage contracting process for the company appropriate for the business; develop streamlined workflows and processes to ensure timely, accurate and compliant contracting
• Integrate New Technologies into the Contracting Process: Research, propose, integrate and deploy new technologies to improve the contracting process. Specifically, integrate and manage contracting business processes with Salesforce.
• Contract Lifecycle Management: Manage the entire contract pipeline, including preparation, submission, negotiation, execution, modification and close-out of prime and subcontract agreements. Work directly with customers and suppliers to ensure a smooth contracting process.
• Contract Documentation and Records Management: Manage and organize all documentation, contracts, quotes, records and invoices for customer accounts, sales and other revenue related processes.
• Forecasting and Planning: Provide forward looking information on contracts, opportunities, new rules and regulations, upcoming legislation and contract changes. Support projections and analysis for the finance, operations and revenue teams.
• Quoting & Proposal Support: Collaborate with business development and technical teams to prepare pricing and proposals; generate accurate and competitive quotes and cost estimates in response to solicitations or customer requirements.
• Procurement Support: Provide contracting support for procurement of materials, components, services and other externally sourced items.
• Stakeholder Communication: Serve as the primary point of contact for contractual matters with customers, partners, vendors, and internal stakeholders. Ensure alignment and clarity throughout contract negotiations and execution.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure all contracts and business practices comply with applicable federal regulations (e.g., FAR/DFARS), export controls (ITAR/EAR), and company policies.
• Risk Management: Identify contractual risks and propose mitigation strategies. Review contract terms to ensure appropriate protections are in place for the company.
• Legal Coordination: Work closely with internal or external legal counsel to coordinate reviews of contractual terms, address legal issues, and ensure enforceable agreements.
• Invoicing & Financial Coordination: Invoice customers. Collaborate with finance to ensure timely and accurate invoicing aligned with contract terms. Monitor payments, deliverables, and contractual obligations.
• Contract Follow-up & Monitoring: Track key milestones, deliverables, renewal dates, and compliance items. Maintain organized contract records and ensure ongoing adherence to obligations.
  
  

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Contract Management, Law, or a related field; advanced degree or JD a plus.
• 3–7 years of contract management experience, ideally within the defense or government contracting sector.
• Strong working knowledge of FAR, DFARS, and other federal acquisition regulations.
• Exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and contract management software/tools.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, small-team environment.
• Clearance eligibility required; active clearance preferred.
  
  

Preferred Skills

• Experience with government procurement portals (e.g., SAM.gov).
• Familiarity with defense industry compliance requirements, including cybersecurity (NIST 800-171), ITAR/EAR, and CMMC.
• Knowledge of project cost structures, pricing models, and indirect rate application
• Knowledge of Salesforce preferred