Contracts Manager

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. You will have 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), Basic Ordering Agreements (BOAs), and Other Transaction Agreements (OTAs) across government, public sector, and commercial programs
• Support proposal development, contract negotiation, compliance, task order management, modifications, and contract close-out activities across government, public sector, and commercial contracts
• Draft, review, and negotiate a variety of agreements including NDAs, teaming agreements, software and technology agreements, reseller agreements, subcontracts, vendor agreements, strategic partnerships, and prime contracts across government, public sector, 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 teams
• Oversee the end-to-end contract lifecycle, from initial proposal development through negotiation, execution, performance management, modifications, compliance monitoring, and contract close-out
• Support public sector contracting activities across procurement vehicles and compliance frameworks, including FAR, DFARS, FedRAMP-related requirements, GSA-aligned contracting structures, and government reseller and integrator relationships
• Ensure compliance with contracting policies, laws, and regulations, including but not limited to FAR, DFARS, Cost Accounting Standards (CAS), Export Administration Regulations (EAR), International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), and applicable federal procurement requirements
• Analyze and summarize contractual obligations, risk factors, intellectual property considerations, performance requirements, and contract modifications for internal stakeholders and leadership teams
• Generate compliance matrices, support risk assessments, and assist with internal and external compliance reviews
• Partner closely with business development, proposal, engineering, finance, supply chain, and operations teams to align contract terms with pursuit strategies, operational execution, and program timelines
• Ensure seamless flow-down of contract terms, obligations, and compliance requirements to cross-functional teams, supporting execution across program management, engineering, finance, procurement, and supply chain operations
• Oversee subcontractor, vendor, channel partner, and reseller agreements to ensure alignment with prime contract requirements and compliance with all applicable contractual obligations and regulatory requirements
• Maintain accurate records for each contract including versions, amendments, deliverables, compliance documentation, correspondence, and reporting obligations
• Track contract performance, deliverables, milestones, and reporting requirements across multiple government, public sector, and commercial programs
• Provide contract briefings, compliance updates, risk summaries, and strategic guidance to leadership and program managers
• Support the development and implementation of scalable internal contract policies, tools, templates, and contract lifecycle management processes to improve operational efficiency
• Assist in the preparation of representations, certifications, and other compliance documentation including SAM.gov registrations, CPARS support, SBA forms, and related government contracting requirements
• Cultivate strong relationships with internal stakeholders, government customers, public sector partners, prime contractors, subcontractors, and external strategic partners
• Synthesize complex legal and regulatory information for a cross-functional audience
• Manage multiple contracts and deadlines in a dynamic environment
• Perform other duties as requested

Required Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Legal Studies, Supply Chain, or related field
• U.S. Citizenship required due to ITAR regulations & the ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Defense (DoD) security clearance
• Minimum 7 years of progressive experience in contract management, procurement, or similar field
• Minimum 4 years of experience in government contracting
• Experience with full-life cycle contract management for CPFF (Cost-Plus-Fixed-Fee), FFP (Firm-Fixed-Proce), OTA (Other Transactions Authority) and T&M (Time & Materials) government and commercial contracts.
• Experience managing complex, multi-year contracts in government and international environments
• Experience with FAR, DFARS, ITAR, EAR, and federal procurement standards
• Experience negotiating terms and managing contract execution and compliance
• Understanding of contract structures, obligations, flow-downs, and performance requirements

Preferred Qualifications 

• Graduate degree in Business, Law, or Public Administration
• NCMA (National Contract Management Association) Certifications, such as CPCM, CFCM, or CCMA.
• Proficiency with contract management tools or CRM systems
• Experience implementing CLM (Contract Lifecycle Management) systems
• Experience with international contracting processes and export controls
• Active DoD security clearance; Secret or higher

Work Environment 

• This is a hybrid 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 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 - $200,000
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.
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.
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.