Government Contracts Manager

xAI’s mission is to create AI systems that can accurately understand the universe and aid humanity in its pursuit of knowledge. Our team is small, highly motivated, and focused on engineering excellence. This organization is for individuals who appreciate challenging themselves and thrive on curiosity. We operate with a flat organizational structure. All employees are expected to be hands-on and to contribute directly to the company’s mission. Leadership is given to those who show initiative and consistently deliver excellence. Work ethic and strong prioritization skills are important. All engineers are expected to have strong communication skills. They should be able to concisely and accurately share knowledge with their teammates.

xAI is pushing the boundaries of artificial intelligence to unlock the mysteries of the universe. This expansion has created a key opening for a Contracts Manager within our Legal and Compliance group. In this role, you'll oversee the administration and adherence to a range of government and commercial agreements, ensuring we deliver on all commitments while navigating complex regulatory and compliance landscapes. You'll engage in contract-related tasks such as drafting confidentiality agreements, partnership deals, and supplier contracts, while also responding to government solicitations, reviewing and negotiating contract awards and building lasting relationships with mission partners.

Responsibilities:

• Oversee adherence to government and commercial agreements, including prime contracts, and collaborate with AI project leads to support seamless execution
• Lead negotiations for government deals, NDAs, vendor partnerships, and distribution agreements
• Prepare and refine proposal submissions for government and private sector RFPs, working closely with technical teams and AI specialists to ensure compliance and completeness
• Analyze, explain, and offer guidance on various contract structures and terms
• Handle billing, invoicing, and payment processes for all contract types
• Develop and organize comprehensive records for contracts and related business activities
• Cultivate strong, collaborative ties with government officials and external partners

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field or equivalent experience 
• 7-10 years in managing or administering government contracts

Preferred qualifications:

• Familiarity with federal contracting principles, including the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS), and other applicable guidelines
• Experience handling contracts with the Department of Defense, the Intelligence Community, or similar government entities
• Expertise in evaluating RFPs and crafting competitive proposals
• Demonstrated success thriving in dynamic, high-stakes settings with minimal oversight
• Outstanding educational background paired with exceptional skills in research, drafting, communication, relationship-building, and coordination
• Advanced degree such as a JD or MBA, or certification from the National Contract Management Association (NCMA)
• Current Top Secret or TS/SCI security clearance

• Flexibility to commit to longer hours or weekend work when project demands arise
• Capability to secure a Department of Defense or Intelligence Community clearance if needed

$160,000 - $220,000 USD

Base salary is just one part of our total rewards package at xAI, which also includes equity, comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short & long-term disability insurance, life insurance, and various other discounts and perks.

xAI is an equal opportunity employer.

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