Senior Space & Defense Contracts Leader

Karman; Gulfport, Northern (MS, KY); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision

401(k) with company match

Paid time off

HSA with company contribution

FSA

Company‑paid life and AD&D insurance

Disability insurance

Job summary

Karman Space & Defense in Gulfport, Mississippi, is seeking a Senior Contracts Manager to lead government and commercial contract activities, negotiate terms, and ensure compliance with FAR/DFARS/ITAR. The role requires guiding junior staff and managing complex agreements from capture through closeout.

You will work independently while mentoring colleagues, monitor obligations and milestones, and maintain contract records in CLM and ERP systems.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, or Accounting or equivalent experience.
• 8–10 years of progressive contract administration and management experience.
• Experience with government prime contracts and subcontracts including FAR/DFARS/ITAR.
• Experience with Other Transactions and various procurement agreements.
• Ability to supervise or mentor contracts professionals.
• Strong negotiation skills and business judgment.

Responsibilities

• Manage a portfolio of government prime contracts and commercial agreements from capture through closeout.
• Draft and negotiate contractual documents using templates and playbooks.
• Ensure compliance with FAR, DFARS, ITAR, and related regulations.
• Mentor and supervise Contract Administrators and coordinate with other teams.
• Monitor contract obligations, funding levels, and milestones; report risks.
• Maintain contract records in CLM and ERP systems.

Skills

Contract leadership

Negotiation

Regulatory knowledge

Risk assessment

Written communication

Verbal communication

MS Office

ERP systems

CLM systems

Mentoring

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Business/Finance/Accounting

Advanced degree

Tools

Microsoft Office

ERP systems

CLM systems

Job description

Karman Space & Defense in Gulfport, Mississippi, is seeking a Senior Contracts Manager to lead government and commercial contract activities, negotiate terms, and ensure compliance with FAR/DFARS/ITAR. The role requires guiding junior staff and managing complex agreements from capture through closeout.

You will work independently while mentoring colleagues, monitor obligations and milestones, and maintain contract records in CLM and ERP systems.