Senior Contracts Manager II

Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, expand humanity’s reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We move fast, build real hardware for meaningful missions, and make the impossible routine. Come shape the future with us.

Based at either Rocket Lab Optical Systems Tucson, AZ, or Chantilly, VA, locations. The Contracts Manager will be responsible for contract administration and compliance across the Rocket Lab Optical Systems business in support of multiple types of U.S. Government and commercial contracts to ensure we meet our contractual obligations and performance milestones. This position will require high levels of productivity, resourcefulness, and maintaining focus and accuracy in a fast-paced open space environment.

• Negotiate and administer government contracts, commercial contracts, subcontracts non-disclosure agreements, teaming agreements and IP licenses.
• Review, interpret and provide advice regarding contract provisions and agreement types.
• Analyze model contract terms and conditions for implications on the program and corporation at large; disseminates this information to internal stakeholders and leadership.
• Serve as the primary customer interface for all contractual compliance matters, including: changes, disputes, or requests for equitable adjustment during contract performance.
• Assist the program and business development teams in proposal review and preparation in response to Government and commercial solicitations, as well as RFIs.
• Create and maintains contract and business files.
• Establish and maintain excellent relationships with Government and other customer counterparts, including internal customers and stakeholders.
• Assist Accounts Receivable team in generating invoices and payments with Government and commercial customers.

• Bachelor’s degree and8+ years of contract administration and/or management experience in the Space and/or Aerospace & Defense industries.
• Extensive knowledge of Government contracts and contract types, OTAs, the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS).
• Extensive knowledge and experience negotiating commercial terms and conditions.
• Experience managing DoD prime contracts and/or subcontracts supporting DoD programs.
• Request for proposal (RFP) analysis and proposal preparation experience.
• Have or be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret/SCI security clearance.

• Proficiency in out-of-the
  -box contracts (OTAs) a plus.
• Experience with Export Control, ITAR and EAR.
• Experience with financial, property and governmental agency audits.
• Experience with CLM systems like Docu Sign.
• Ability leverage critical thinking skills to be able to timely solve problems independently and creatively.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; able to articulate and effectively communicate contract compliance information to various levels of management and program teams.
• Proven ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment.
• Detail oriented, team player attitude, high work ethic and reliability.
• Ability to effectively communicate with engineers, scientists, attorneys, and industry executives.
• Ability to work independently as a self-starter, influence stakeholders through effective communication, and handle multiple priorities in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.

This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.

We’re on a mission to unlock the potential of space…