Sr Contract Manager

We are seeking a proactive, business-minded Contracts Manager to lead contract strategy, negotiation, and execution across a portfolio of commercial and government-facing programs.

This role requires the ability to operate across a range of contracting environments, including commercial fixed-price agreements and contracts incorporating U.S. Government regulatory frameworks (e.g., FAR/DFARS).

The Contracts Manager will serve as a strategic partner across Program Management, Engineering, Finance, and Supply Chain helping drive disciplined contract execution, protect margins, and enable scalable growth. This role works cross-functionally across the organization and interfaces directly with customers, partners, and suppliers.

Essential Functions:

Own Contract Strategy & Lifecycle

• Manage contracts across the full lifecycle: RFP proposal negotiation award execution closeout
• Lead contract structuring and positioning to support favorable business outcomes
• Ensure contract documentation, compliance, and audit readiness

Lead Negotiations & External Engagement

• Negotiate directly with primes, customers, and suppliers on terms, pricing structures, and changes
• Serve as the primary contractual point of contact with customers and partners
• Represent the company with professionalism and credibility in all external interactions

Identify Risk & Drive Mitigation

• Identify contractual, financial, and operational risks early and proactively drive mitigation strategies
• Evaluate:
• • Scope risk / scope creep
  • Pricing exposure
  • Compliance and regulatory risk
• Advise leadership with clear, actionable recommendations

Support Proposal & Business Development

• Review solicitations and shape proposal strategy and contract structure
• Partner with Finance and BD on pricing alignment and contract positioning
• Support evaluation of opportunities, including risk/reward tradeoffs

Ensure Compliance & Enable Future Government Work

• Ensure compliance with:
• • FAR / DFARS (current flowdowns future direct contracts)
  • ITAR / export controls
  • Internal policies and audit requirements
• Interpret clauses and ensure proper flowdowns to subcontractors and suppliers
• Support readiness for CPSR and increased government scrutiny

Drive Cross-Functional Execution

• Act as a true business partner, not just a contracts administrator
• Work across:
• • Programs
  • Engineering
  • Finance (pricing, revenue recognition)
  • Legal and compliance

• Help resolve contract issues quickly and keep programs moving

Basic Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in contracts
• Strong experience with:
• • Commercial FFP contracts
  • FAR/DFARS (flowdowns required; prime experience preferred)
• Demonstrated ability to:
• • Negotiate complex agreements independently
  • Analyze and mitigate contractual risk
  • Work cross-functionally in a fast-paced environment
• Bachelor’s degree (Business, Finance, Contracts, or related)

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience transitioning from commercial government contracting environments
• Professional certification (NCMA – CPCM/CCCM)
• Experience with aerospace, defense, or advanced manufacturing

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Onsite role – Littleton, Colorado

Export Control / Compliance Requirements

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. 

Compensation & Benefits

The good faith base salary rangefor this role is $135,000 – $165,000at the time of this posting. Where you fall within the range depends on your experience, skills, and location. This range reflects base salary only and does not include benefits or bonus/incentive. This range may be adjusted in the future.

ExoTerra offers a comprehensive, total compensation package, which includes competitive salary, a discretionary annual bonus plan, paid time off (PTO), a comprehensive health benefit package and various other benefits. When you join our team, you’re not just an employee; you become part of a dynamic community dedicated to innovation and excellence.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

ExoTerra is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.