Contracts Manager
About the role
At Dynamic Aviation, we solve unique challenges for our customers with innovative aviation solutions. Our focus is on operations that serve, protect, and enhance the lives of families and communities worldwide. Whether modifying aircraft to help protect our service members overseas, performing geographical mapping for scientific research, or working to suppress large wildfires on the West Coast, we serve with integrity and excellence.
The Contracts Manager role exists in supporting complex aviation operations, government programs, and commercial partnerships in the United States and internationally. The Contracts Manager will possess contract negotiation experience, sound business judgment, and a practical approach to managing contractual risk. This is an opportunity to take ownership of a diverse contract portfolio, work directly with business and operational teams, and solidify processes. The Contracts Manager will oversee assigned government, commercial, and international agreements, collaborating with stakeholders to move opportunities forward while protecting the company's interests. Beyond managing contracts, the Contracts Manager will play a vital role in strengthening the contracts function by incorporating process improvements, developing practical contracting tools, and streamlining the final product.
Responsibilities
- Reviews domestic and international solicitations, proposals, statements of work (SOWs), and contractual requirements to identify risks, inconsistencies, required flow downs provisions, and exceptions
- Manages assigned domestic and international government and commercial contracts throughout the contract lifecycle, from proposal review and negotiation through execution, administration, and closeout
- Drafts, reviews, and negotiates a variety of agreements, including customer contracts, subcontracts, teaming agreements, Other Transaction Agreements (OTAs), strategic alliance agreements, nondisclosure agreements (NDAs), consulting agreements, and supplier agreements
- Partners with Proposal, Business Development, Finance, Operations, and other internal stakeholders to develop practical contractual solutions that support business objectives
- Identifies and evaluates contractual risks involving liability, indemnification, payment terms, intellectual property, termination, and performance obligations, escalating material matters to the Director of Contracts
- Reviews international contractual considerations, including governing law, dispute resolution, payment security, and cross-border requirements, coordinating with Trade Compliance on applicable ITAR/EAR, sanctions, and import/export obligations
- Coordinates contract modifications, renewals, and extensions, and tracks key contractual milestones, deliverables, reporting obligations, and representations and certifications
- Maintains accurate contract records, approvals, and documentation within company repositories and tracking systems, coordinating with the Contracts Coordinator as needed
- Supports the Director of Contracts in developing standard terms and conditions, contract risk assessment practices, negotiation resources, and contracting procedures
- Contributes to the development and maintenance of the Contracts knowledge bank, including contract precedents, negotiated positions, and lessons learned, and recommends improvements to contracting processes and consistency
- Maintains positive, professional relationships with internal and external stakeholders
- Performs other duties as assigned
Requirements
- BA or BS degree (preferably in business, law, or related field)
- 5+ years of experience in contract administration, including reviewing and negotiating government or commercial contracts
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and SharePoint
- Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
- Strong organizational abilities and attention to detail
- Ability to manage multiple priorities to meet deadlines
- Self-motivated, proactive, and capable of working both independently and collaboratively within a team
Qualifications
- Experience in the aviation or defense industry
- Working knowledge of export regulations (ITAR/EAR)
- Working knowledge of FAR/DFARS and U.S. government procurement processes
- Experience with international commercial or defense-related agreements is a plus, particularly within the Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) region
- Familiarity with international payment terms, governing law, and cross-border transactions
- Experience with contract risk assessments, standard terms, or process improvements