Contracts Manager, Government Programs

About the role

Quartermaster is seeking a Contracts Manager to own the full lifecycle of U.S. government contracts, from negotiation through post‑award administration. This is the first dedicated contracts position, giving you the chance to shape the function and directly influence company revenue.

Key responsibilities

• Serve as the primary interface with U.S. Government Contracting Officers and prime contractors, negotiating terms, conditions, and pricing across various contract vehicles.
• Review solicitations (RFPs, RFQs, BAAs, SBIR topics, OTAs) for compliance, risk, and contract‑type suitability, and partner with the proposal team on compliance matrices.
• Manage pre‑ and post‑award actions, including CLIN restructures, option exercises, funding extensions, and contract closeouts.
• Negotiate NDAs, teaming agreements, and subcontracts, ensuring prime contractors honor flow‑down terms.
• Maintain SAM.gov registration, annual certifications, and socioeconomic status representations.
• Support finance with cost volumes, rate structures, and certified cost or pricing data, aligning billing milestones with deliverables.
• Own technical data and software rights positions to protect Quartermaster’s core technology.
• Ensure adherence to FAR, DFARS, and agency supplements, advising internal teams on acquisition rules.

Required profile

• 6+ years of experience in federal government contracting, acquisition, or senior contracts management in defense/intelligence.
• Hands‑on track record negotiating awards, modifications, CLIN structures, option exercises, and closeouts.
• Deep knowledge of FAR, DFARS, and contract types (FFP, CPFF, T&M, OTA).
• Ability to assess material risk in contract terms and communicate implications to leadership.
• Proven cross‑team collaboration with growth, proposal, finance, and program groups.
• Startup mindset: proactive, fast‑moving, independent, and capable of building repeatable processes.

Required skills

• FAR/DFARS compliance
• Contract negotiation and lifecycle management
• Technical data and software rights handling
• Salesforce or comparable CRM for contract and pipeline tracking

What we offer

• Hybrid work environment based in the DC/Northern Virginia area
• Competitive salary with comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits
• High ownership and autonomy in a fast‑growing startup
• Mission‑driven impact on maritime safety and security