Contracts Administrator

Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc (ESAero) is a leader in aerospace engineering, product development, and manufacturing, dedicated to delivering high-quality, innovative, and cost-effective solutions to the industry. We specialize in cutting-edge system design, rapid product development, precision manufacturing, comprehensive testing, and technology demonstrations to support the evolving needs of the aerospace community. Committed to excellence, on-time delivery, and continuous growth, we invest in infrastructure to expand our manufacturing and aftermarket capabilities while maintaining the highest standards of engineering services. 

At ESAero, we don’t just build products, we engineer solutions that propel  

the aerospace industry forward. 

**This position is fully on-site at ESAero in San Luis Obispo, CA** 

The Contracts Administrator will create and review industry contract agreements. The duties will include negotiating terms and conditions with each party, analyzing potential risks involved with subcontract clauses, helping vendors, employees and leadership better understand and comply with the requirements. The Contracts Administrator will manage the process for contractual documents proceeding efficiently through review and approval processes with the goal of maximizing financial and operational performance and minimizing risk. 

• Review and/or prepare subcontracts, contracts, agreements, amendments, change orders, business proposals, non-disclosure agreements, rental agreements and other contractual documents. 

• Take sufficient steps to identify project risks 

• Liaise with and support the Project Managers to ensure the project is executed in compliance with terms and conditions 

• Participate in the development of new business proposals, ensuring compliance with terms and conditions. 

• Ensure compliance with the company’s policies, standards, and procedures 

• Prepare and review subcontracts in cooperation with Supply Chain and Procurement, insuring flow down of requirements 

• Prepare monthly project reports and make presentations at meetings 

• Support negotiations of claims, manage contractual changes and resolve disputes or conflict resolution with Contractors and Customers 

• Assess and prepare claims from suppliers 

• Manage contract closeout procedures 

• Confer with counsel and leadership on items out of the ordinary or carrying significant risk 

• Support supply chain in supplier and vendor certification and compliance 

• Assist in debriefings, resolving disputes, claims, litigation and settlements 

• Ensure completeness of contract files and records. 

Required Qualifications 

• BA/BS degree in contract management, business management, procurement, law or a related field preferred 

• A minimum of 5 years’ experience in any combination of the following areas: contracts, subcontracts or purchasing. 

• US Citizenship Required 

• Demonstrated experience in Project Contract Administration required 

• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret contractual and legal documents, financial reports and technical documents 

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills 

• Must possess excellent organizational skills, problem solving, and decision-making skills. 

• A working knowledge of federal government procurement procedures 

• Good understanding of Federal Acquisition Regulations, industrial standard operating procedures (SOPs) and occupational, industrial regulations and law 

• Ability to maintain integrity and confidentiality while working with purchasing information and other pertinent sensitive information.  

• Excellent computer skills is a must, including a variety of software applications; tracking/scheduling software and Microsoft Products 

• Time management, organization, and problem-solving skills 

• Detail oriented 

Desirable Qualifications and Skills 

• Certified Professional Contract Manager (CPCM) certification desired 

• Knowledge of operations, program management, project management, product development, and procurement desired 

• Expertise working with cross-functional teams 

• Experience in aerospace preferred  

• Preferred familiar with ISO9001/AS9100 

• Advanced understanding of purchasing and supply chain procedures 

• Comprehensive Benefits & Perks: 

• Health & Wellness: Choose from three health, dental, and vision plans - including a 100% employer-paid option covering both employees and their families. 

• Paid Time Off: Enjoy 120 hours of PTO, 80 hours accrued plus an additional 40 hours of holiday break pay in addition to Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day off. 

• Life Insurance: $25,000 employer-paid life insurance policy, with the option to purchase additional coverage for employees and their families. 

• Supplemental Coverage: Access optional benefits such as Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity, Accident Insurance, and Critical Illness with Skin Cancer coverage. 

• Health Savings Account (HSA): Take advantage of a tax-advantaged HSA to manage medical expenses. 

• Retirement Savings: 401(k) with a company match to support your financial future. 

• Paid Holidays: Enjoy 9 paid holidays throughout the year. 

• Work Environment: A casual dress code, complimentary snacks, and a welcoming company culture. 

• Ideal Location: Work in an area that offers an outstanding quality of life - a perfect place to live, work, and play! 

• ESAero is an equal opportunity employer.  
  E-Verify participation required for employment.  
  Must present proof of authorization to work in the United States.     
  Must be able to pass background check.    
  Hiring Range: $75,000-$95,000 annual salary (DOE)