Senior Contracts Director - Defense & Aerospace

Actalent; California; On-site; USD 160,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision

401(k) match

Incentive program

Job summary

Actalent, a global engineering and sciences services firm, seeks a Senior Contracts Manager for defense and aerospace programs. You will lead negotiations, manage risk, ensure government compliance, and protect financial and IP interests.

Based in Valencia, CA, this onsite role requires 10+ years in aerospace/defense contracts, with 5+ years in leadership. The position involves coordinating with BD, PM, Finance, Legal, and Compliance teams and supporting audits and contract closeouts.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Law, Engineering, Contract Management, or related field.
• 10+ years of contracts experience in aerospace or defense.
• 5+ years of leadership experience managing contracts or contract teams.
• Strong understanding of FAR, DFARS, TINA, and government contracting regulations.
• Experience supporting DCAA audits and DCMA reviews.
• Knowledge of ITAR and export compliance requirements.
• Experience negotiating complex prime contracts and subcontracts.

Responsibilities

• Lead negotiations for government and commercial contracts.
• Review contract terms, pricing, and compliance requirements.
• Advise leadership on contract risks and business impacts.
• Support proposal development, contract awards, and contract closeout activities.
• Work closely with Business Development, Program Management, Finance, Legal, and Compliance teams.
• Manage contract modifications, change orders, and funding updates.
• Ensure compliance with FAR, DFARS, ITAR, and other government regulations.
• Support audits and government reviews, including DCAA and DCMA.
• Protect company intellectual property and technical data rights.
• Develop contract procedures, templates, and negotiation strategies.
• Resolve contractual issues and support claims, REAs, and corrective actions.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for customers, government agencies, and legal counsel on contract matters.

Skills

Contract Management (A&D)

FAR/DFARS knowledge

Negotiation leadership

Regulatory compliance

Risk assessment

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Business/Law/Engineering/Contract Management

Job description

Actalent, a global engineering and sciences services firm, seeks a Senior Contracts Manager for defense and aerospace programs. You will lead negotiations, manage risk, ensure government compliance, and protect financial and IP interests.

Based in Valencia, CA, this onsite role requires 10+ years in aerospace/defense contracts, with 5+ years in leadership. The position involves coordinating with BD, PM, Finance, Legal, and Compliance teams and supporting audits and contract closeouts.