Space Contracts Lead - Federal & Commercial Programs

Space Kinetic; El Segundo (CA); On-site; USD 125,000 - 170,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity-Based Compensation

401(k) with company match

PTO and holidays

Medical, dental, vision

Job summary

Space Kinetic, based in El Segundo, CA, is seeking a Contracts Manager to own the full contract lifecycle for government and commercial engagements. You will ensure compliance, minimize risk, and optimize performance while coordinating with legal, proposal, accounting, and engineering teams.

The role requires deep knowledge of CPFF, FFP, T&M, IDIQ contracts, ITAR/DFARS/FAR, and strong negotiation skills to support national security through advanced aerospace technologies.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or related field.
• 5+ years of contracts, subcontract, or supply chain management experience, ideally in aerospace, defense, or technology manufacturing
• Proven track record of negotiating and managing complex subcontract agreements in a fast-paced, program-driven environment
• Deep understanding of subcontracting principles including SOW development, pricing structures, risk allocation, and supplier performance management
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements in Aerospace & Defense, including ITAR, DFARS, FAR, and export control compliance
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills with a desire to collaborate across technical, operational, and business teams
• Results-driven mindset with a pragmatic, solutions-oriented approach to closing issues and driving accountability
• Ability to balance strategic thinking with hands‑on execution in a dynamic, startup environment

Responsibilities

• Execute contract management throughout the life of each contract.
• Complete contract review and acceptance.
• Oversee and prepare contract proposal planning and management and support preparation of proposals.
• Ensure compliance with government regulations, legal requirements, and company policies.
• Assist in identification, development, and implementation of new contract policies and processes.
• Maintain comprehensive contract documentation and compliance records.
• Provide contract summaries and ensure contract execution in accordance with government and company requirements.
• Provide program managers and executives with contract briefs during the life of contracts.
• Provide guidance on FAR/DFARS requirements and other regulatory considerations.
• Cultivate strong, ongoing relationships with internal/external customers.
• Provide contractual guidance and risk mitigation strategies for contractual and business obligations.
• Negotiate complex contractual terms with federal agencies, prime contractors, and subcontractors.

Skills

Contract management

Negotiation

Regulatory compliance

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in related field

Job description

Space Kinetic, based in El Segundo, CA, is seeking a Contracts Manager to own the full contract lifecycle for government and commercial engagements. You will ensure compliance, minimize risk, and optimize performance while coordinating with legal, proposal, accounting, and engineering teams.

The role requires deep knowledge of CPFF, FFP, T&M, IDIQ contracts, ITAR/DFARS/FAR, and strong negotiation skills to support national security through advanced aerospace technologies.