Contracts Manager

At Parallax, we believe in advancing science and serving the public good—and we’re looking for team members who do too. If you’re ready to support big ideas through precise execution, we encourage you to apply.

At Parallax Advanced Research, our work is rooted in innovation, collaboration, and national impact. As a nonprofit research institute, we partner with government, academic, and industry clients to solve complex challenges in AI, aerospace, human‑machine teaming, and beyond. Our mission is to deliver innovative research and provide technology, human and business solutions via The Science of Intelligent Teaming for government, industry and academic clients.

Parallax uses agile software development methods to deliver customized research and development software products in support of Air Force and other service missions.

• Lead purchasing and procurement operations in accordance with company policies, the Authorization Matrix, and applicable regulations.
• Review and approve purchase requisitions, purchase orders, justifications, price analyses, and procurement documentation for quality and compliance.
• Lead administration of complex government contracts, grants, cooperative agreements, OTAs, CRADAs, commercial agreements, and subcontracts.
• Independently negotiate contract terms and conditions with customers and subcontractors.
• Interpret FAR, DFARS, agency supplements, and financial assistance regulations.
• Advise executive leadership and Program Managers regarding contractual obligations, risks, and opportunities.
• Lead contractual strategy for proposals and capture efforts.
• Provide day‑to‑day working leadership and technical guidance to Contracts personnel.
• Mentor and develop staff through coaching and cross‑training.
• Develop and maintain contracting policies, SOPs, templates, and training.
• Lead internal compliance initiatives and contract file audits.
• Support DCMA, DCAA, CMMC, customer, and internal audits.

• US Citizenship is required.
• Active S or TS/SCI Clearance Preferred – must be clearance eligible and remain clearance eligible as a condition of employment.
• Bachelor’s degree in business or related field with 6‑10 years of contracts experience.
• In‑Depth knowledge of the FAR, Defense Acquisition Regulations System (DFARS), and other agency supplements.
• In‑Depth knowledge of 2 CFR 200, "Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards."
• General knowledge of Financial Assistance Mechanisms such as Grants, Cooperative Agreements, and other Cooperative Research & Development Agreements.

• Master’s degree in business or related field.
• Experience with Deltek Cost Point.
• Experience with Research and Development (R&D) contracts.
• A Professional Certification, such as National Contract Management Association (NCMA) CPCM, CFCM, or CCCM.
• Experience working with non‑profit organizations.

• Active S or TS/SCI Clearance preferred, and US Citizenship required.

Physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the functions.

• Sitting & Posture – Ability to sit for long periods with good posture.
• Manual Dexterity – Use of a keyboard, mouse, and office equipment.
• Vision & Reading – Clear vision (corrected if needed) for screens and documents.
• Hearing & Communication – Ability to hear and speak clearly for calls and meetings.
• Mobility – Walking short distances, occasional reaching, bending, or lifting light objects.
• Cognitive Ability – Focus, problem‑solving, and multitasking skill

Travel requirements/percentage: 10%

Parallax Advanced Research is an Equal Opportunity Employer, drug‑free workplace, and complies with ADA regulations as applicable.

We offer a workplace that values both personal well‑being and professional growth, along with a robust benefits package:
Health Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision coverage
Insurance: 100% employer‑paid life, short‑ and long‑term disability
Retirement: Roth or pre‑tax 401(k) with company match + annual employer contribution
Education:Up to $20k tuition coverage for employees and support for dependents
Time Off: 25 days of PTO, flex holidays, paid parental leave, and military leave
Work‑Life Balance: PTO sell‑back program and hybrid flexibility for select positions

At Parallax, we believe in advancing science and serving the public good—and we’re looking for team members who do too. If you’re ready to support big ideas through precise execution, we encourage you to apply.