Contracts Manager
Firestorm
San Diego, CA, USA
USD 110k-165k / year + Equity
Posted on Sep 23, 2025
Contracts Manager
San Diego, CA
Business Development
In office
Full-time
Who We Are
At Firestorm, we’re on a mission to revolutionize how defense solutions are designed and delivered. Our goal is to empower U.S. ally nations to effectively deter aggressors — regardless of their defense budget — through innovative, cost-efficient technologies. We call this vision “democratized deterrence.” As a VC-backed company at the intersection of defense and Silicon Valley, we’re pioneering the development of mission-adaptable aerial vehicles that put power back into the hands of operators. By prioritizing operator effectiveness, we’re pioneering a new era of aerial vehicle design. We aim to upend the traditional defense procurement model by delivering world-class capabilities at a fraction of the usual cost. Join us at Firestorm as we redefine defense procurement, making cutting-edge technology accessible to all at a fraction of the cost.
About the Role
Firestorm Labs is seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Contracts Manager to oversee the full lifecycle of contracts across our diverse portfolio of partners. You will be responsible for drafting, negotiating, and managing a wide range of agreements while driving the implementation of streamlined contract management processes and tools. This cross-functional, individual contributor role is ideal for a contracts professional with strong organizational skills, deep government contracting expertise and a collaborative, solutions-focused mindset.
As a subject matter expert in Contracts Administration within the aerospace and defense industry, you will develop and refine bid, capture, and negotiation processes, ensuring efficient contract performance throughout the lifecycle, including amendments and interpretations. Attention to detail and a proactive approach to risk management are critical to success in this high-impact role. You will work closely with teams across business development, engineering, product, and leadership, navigating complex government and international contracting regulations. This position offers significant visibility and frequent engagement with internal and external stakeholders in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.
What You'll Do
- Manage and provide contract support for various contract types including Cost-Plus-Fixed-Fee (CPFF), Firm-Fixed-Price (FFP), Time & Materials (T&M), Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ), and Other Transaction Agreements (OTAs)
- Support proposal development, contract negotiation, compliance, task order management, modifications, and contract close-out activities across these contracts
- Draft, review, and negotiate a variety of agreements including NDAs, teaming agreements, subcontracts, vendor agreements, and prime contracts across government and commercial partners
- Support the preparation, review, and submission of Requests for Information (RFIs) and Requests for Proposals (RFPs) in coordination with BD and capture team
- Oversee the end-to-end contract lifecycle, from initial proposal development through negotiation, execution, performance management, modifications, and close-out
- Ensure compliance with contracting policies, laws, and regulations, including but not limited to the FAR, DFARS, Cost Accounting Standards (CAS), Export Administration Regulations (EAR), and International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR)
- Analyze and summarize contractual obligations, risk factors, performance requirements, and modifications for internal teams
- Generate compliance matrices, assist with risk assessments, and reviews
- Partner with business development and proposal team to align contract terms with pursuit strategies and timelines
- Ensure seamless flow-down of contract terms and obligations to cross-functional teams, driving compliance across program execution, engineering, finance, and supply chain operations
- Oversee subcontractor and vendor agreements to ensure alignment with prime contract requirements and enforce compliance with all applicable terms and conditions
- Maintain accurate records for each contract including versions, amendments, deliverables, and correspondence
- Track contract performance, deliverables, and reporting obligations across multiple programs
- Provide contract briefs and compliance updates to leadership and program managers
- Support the development and implementation of internal contract policies, tools, and templates
- Assist in the preparation of representations, certifications, and other compliance documentation (e.g., SAM.gov, CPARS, SBA forms)
- Cultivate strong relationships with internal stakeholders, customers, and external partners
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Legal Studies, Supply Chain, or related field
- Minimum 7 years of progressive experience in contract management, procurement, or similar field
- 4+ years of experience in government contracting
- U.S. Citizenship required due to ITAR regulations & the ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Defense (DoD) security clearance
- Experience with full life cycle contract management for CPFF, FFP, OTA and T&M government and commercial contracts.
- Adept at managing complex, multi-year contracts in government and international environments
- Strong working knowledge of FAR, DFARS, ITAR, EAR, and federal procurement standards
- Proven experience negotiating terms and managing contract execution and compliance
- Understanding of contract structures, obligations, flow-downs, and performance requirements
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to synthesize complex legal and regulatory information for a cross-functional audience
- Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple contracts and deadlines in a dynamic environment
Preferred Qualifications
- Graduate degree in Business, Law, or Public Administration
- NCMA Certifications, such as CPCM, CFCM, or CCMA.
- Proficiency with contract management tools or CRM systems
- Experience implementing contract lifecycle management (CLM) systems
- Experience with international contracting processes and export controls
- Active DoD security clearance; Secret or higher
Additional Requirements
- Ability to work in an office environment
Work Environment
- This is an on-site role based in San Diego, CA.
- We welcome candidates who are local or open to relocating; relocation assistance is available and may be included in the offer package where appropriate.
- Occasional travel may be required to domestically; up to 10% within a calendar year.
This position typically operates in a standard office setting and manufacturing environment. This role requires use of standard office equipment and the physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach and move about regularly throughout the day. Must have manual dexterity to operate standard office equipment.
Compensation
U.S. Range: $110,000 - $165,000
The posted salary range reflects an estimate based on a variety of compensation factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, education, certifications, specialized skills, geographic location, and business needs. Actual compensation may vary, and this range is subject to change as our compensation structure or market conditions evolve.
Benefits & Perks
Our culture fosters collaboration, respect, and trust, empowering passionate people to do their best work. We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth. In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative, collaborative and fast-growing business with a highly motivated and skilled team, we also take pride in taking care of our employees. Here are just a few ways that we show our appreciation:
- We offer comprehensive medical, dental, and visions plans
- 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan to invest in your long-term retirement goals
- Equity grants for new hires
- Unlimited PTO
- Extremely generous company holiday calendar, including a holiday hiatus in November, & December.
- Generous Parental Leave
- Lifestyle Spending Account
- FSA
- DCFSA
- HSA
- Hospital Indemnity insurance
- Critical Illness insurance
- Accident insurance
- Basic Life/AD&D, short-term and long-term disability insurance, 100% covered by Firestorm. Plus, the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your family.
- Mental Health Resources: We provide free mental health resources 24/7 including therapy and more. Additional work-life services, such as free legal and financial support, are available to you as well.
Export Control Compliance
To conform to U.S. government export control regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR), you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or U.S. Department of Commerce.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Firestorm is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic under federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process.
Firestorm is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible work environment. If you require accommodations or assistance during the application process, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at careers@launchfirestorm.com so we can provide the support you need.
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EXPORT CONTROLS - This position requires access to information and technology that is subject to U.S. export controls. Your responses to the questions below will be used solely to determine your eligibility under U.S. law to receive information and materials subject to U.S. export controls.
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Clearance Eligibility - This position requires eligibility to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance
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Req ID: R87