Contracts Lead

TL;DR

Contracts Lead (Defense Contracts): Lead contracting strategy and execution for turreted weapon systems programs, with an accent on FAR/DFAR compliance, high-stakes negotiations, and contract risk mitigation. Focus on aligning contract efforts with business objectives while mentoring contract specialists and supporting proposal and contract financial performance monitoring.

Company

hirify.global supports defense and aerospace programs through engineering and manufacturing.

What you will do

• Mentor contract specialists/program administrators and support training, policies, and procedures across the defense contracts organization.
• Develop and execute contract strategies across turreted weapon systems programs aligned with operational and financial objectives.
• Partner with legal, finance, program management, and senior contracts leadership on negotiations, renewals, amendments, commerciality support, and dispute resolution.
• Advise on compliance with federal regulations and FAR/DFAR guidance; monitor contract risks and implement mitigation strategies.
• Lead and/or guide high-stakes defense-industry negotiations with government agencies and aerospace & defense customers.
• Support proposal teams on contract terms, pricing strategies, risk identification, and solicitation compliance; monitor contract financial and operational performance.

Requirements

• Minimum 5 years of experience in US Government contracting with a Bachelor’s degree (advanced degrees preferred).
• Experience negotiating, drafting, and managing contracts subject to US Government regulations, specifically FAR and DFARS.
• Experience drafting and leading and/or significantly contributing to competitive and non-competitive proposals.
• Strong communication, collaboration, and influence skills.
• Ability to lead and develop junior contracts professionals.
• Work location: Hybrid in Santa Barbara, CA.

Culture & Benefits

• Hybrid work schedule based in Santa Barbara, CA.
• Open paid time off policy and region-specific benefits.
• Compensation includes base salary plus potential annual bonuses and an employee stock purchase plan.
• Work with a performance-focused culture emphasizing trust and quality of life.

Hiring process

• Interviews with relevant stakeholders including contract leadership and hiring manager.
• Assessment of defense contracting experience, FAR/DFAR knowledge, and negotiation/proposal support capabilities.

Location: Hybrid – Santa Barbara, CA

Salary: $95,000.00–$175,000.00 annually