Karman Space & Defense is a leader in the rapid design, development, and production of critical, next-generation system solutions that align with the U.S. Department of War and its allies’ core mission priorities, and meet the accelerating demand for access to space. Building on nearly 50 years of success, we deliver Payload & Protection Systems, Aero/Hydrodynamic Interstage Systems, and Propulsion & Launch Systems to more than 80 prime contractors supporting over 130 space and defense programs.
This role supports our Defense Systems business, bringing together Hypersonics, Strategic Missile Defense, Tactical Missiles, and Integrated Defense Systems. Modern defense missions demand more than piecemeal parts or patchwork products; they require hardware that seamlessly integrates disparate technologies into a unified system. Backed by decades of flight-proven performance, our teams deliver tailored mission-ready solutions across air, land, and sea, including: launch and deployment systems, propulsion, payload protection, integration and deployment.
As a Contract Administrator, you support end-to-end contract management by reviewing and negotiating terms, maintaining accurate documentation, and ensuring compliance with procurement regulations. This role strengthens program execution by partnering with internal teams and customers to align contract obligations, resolve issues, and maintain clear communication that supports successful delivery and business performance.
Schedule
- This position follows a hybrid schedule with two days onsite each week. During the first month, full‑time onsite attendance Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. is required for training.
Responsibilities
- Supports complete contract administration from initial review through final execution.
- Reviews and negotiates contracts and purchase orders and prepares necessary flow-down clauses.
- Analyzes requests for proposals (RFPs) and solicitations for compliance with Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS), and U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) requirements.
- Maintains organized contract files in both digital and hard-copy formats for audits and compliance activities.
- Serves as the primary contact for routine contract matters and coordinates customer interactions.
- Ensures compliance with contract terms, deliverables, regulatory requirements, and export-control obligations throughout contract performance.
- Collaborates with program management, accounting, and supply chain to support reporting and deliverable completion.
- Reports contract status and key updates to management.
- Negotiates contract terms, conditions, and pricing and ensures accurate implementation.
- Evaluates potential organizational risks associated with contract changes.
Required Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Minimum of two years of experience in contract administration or contract management.
- Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English.
- Working knowledge of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS), and common contract types.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and Adobe Acrobat.
- Ability to work independently while managing multiple contracts.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills and strong organizational abilities.
- Ability to adapt effectively to changes in the work environment.
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in business administration or a related field.
- Manufacturing industry experience.
Special Mentions
- No travel required for this position.
This position requires U.S. person status under U.S. export control laws, including U.S. citizens and nationals, lawful permanent residents, refugees, and asylees.
Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) with company match
- Paid time off
- Health Savings Account (HSA) with company contribution
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
- Company‑paid life and AD&D insurance
- Short‑ and long‑term disability coverage
- Tuition reimbursement
Karman Space and Defense is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.
Skills Required
- Minimum of 2 years contract administration or contract management experience
- Working knowledge of FAR, DFARS, and DoD procurement regulations
- Familiarity with contract types (FFP, T&M, CPFF, CPAF, CPIF, OTAs)
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint) and Adobe Acrobat
- High school diploma or equivalent (Bachelor's preferred)
- Manufacturing experience preferred (aerospace/defense preferred)
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple contracts independently
- Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English at a level sufficient to perform job duties
- Must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (ITAR/government contract requirement)
What We Do
Karman Space & Defense is a leader in the rapid design, development, and production of critical, next-generation system solutions that align with the U.S. Department of War’s core mission priorities and meet our nation’s accelerating demand for access to space. Building on nearly 50 years of success, we deliver Payload & Protection Systems, Aero/Hydrodynamic Interstage Systems, and Propulsion & Launch Systems to more than 80 prime contractors supporting over 130space and defense programs. For more information, visit our website at Karman-SD.com.
