Senior Space Contracts & Compliance Lead

Varda Space Industries, Inc.; El Segundo (CA); On-site; USD 155,000 - 175,000; Full time

Job summary

Varda Space Industries, Inc. in El Segundo, CA is seeking a Senior Contracts Specialist to own first-of-kind agreements across government and commercial missions.

You’ll work with the Contracts Manager on a lean team, guiding pre-award strategy, negotiations, and post-award execution to move missions forward. You’ll manage the full lifecycle under FAR/DFARS, ITAR/EAR, and export controls, coordinating with legal, engineering, and program teams.

Qualifications

• BA/BS in law, business, finance, or related field (equivalent experience).
• 4–6 years in contract management, government-focused.
• Experience with FFP and OTA agreements.
• Knowledge of FAR, DFARS, NASA FARS.
• Ability to obtain Top Secret clearance.

Responsibilities

• Represent the company as contracting officer for government and commercial missions.
• Lead negotiations with customers while protecting company interests.
• Ensure rapid signature by structuring favorable terms.
• Maintain contract files and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Oversee contract closeout, deliveries, payments, and issues.
• Advise leadership on rights and obligations.

Skills

Contract management

Government contracts

Negotiation

FAR/DFARS

ITAR/EAR

Top Secret clearance

Travel up to 10%

Education

BA/BS in law, business, finance

Job description

Varda Space Industries, Inc. in El Segundo, CA is seeking a Senior Contracts Specialist to own first-of-kind agreements across government and commercial missions.

You’ll work with the Contracts Manager on a lean team, guiding pre-award strategy, negotiations, and post-award execution to move missions forward. You’ll manage the full lifecycle under FAR/DFARS, ITAR/EAR, and export controls, coordinating with legal, engineering, and program teams.