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

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.

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:

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.