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Contract Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Sakata Seed America, INC.

Contract Manager

Woodland, CA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

The Contract Manager will work with diverse legal and cross-functional teams playing a critical role in supporting Sakata's contract and agreement needs, enhancing processes and driving efficiency ...

Chrysalis Center Inc

Contract Manager

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$65K - $70K/yr

The Contract Manager is responsible for the successful day-to-day operations at their respective worksite as well as the supervision and continued professional development of Safekeeping Supervisors.

Chrysalis Center Inc

Contract Manager

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$65K - $70K/yr

The Contract Manager is responsible for the successful day-to-day operations at their respective worksite as well as the supervision and continued professional development of Safekeeping Supervisors.

Artiva Biotherapeutics, Inc.

Contract Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

$122K - $145K/yr

The Contract Manager, reporting to the Vice President, General Counsel & Corporate Secretary, is responsible for managing all aspects of Artiva's contract activities. The ideal candidate will have a ...

Artiva Biotherapeutics, Inc.

Contract Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

$122K - $145K/yr

The Contract Manager, reporting to the Vice President, General Counsel & Corporate Secretary, is responsible for managing all aspects of Artiva's contract activities. The ideal candidate will have a ...

Genentech

Contract Manager

South San Francisco, CA · On-site

$110K - $205K/yr

Possessing an understanding of managed care as well as related product and segment access, distribution and pricing strategies * Monitoring, evaluating and refining contract language and performance

BTAS

Contract Manager

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$99K - $231K/yr

Contract Manager LOCATION: Flexible / El Segundo, CA REQUIRED SECURITY CLEARANCE: Active TS with SCI eligibility POSITION TYPE/STANDARD WORK HOURS: Full time, 40 hours THE OPPORTUNITY: Upon award ...

Agility Recruiting

Contract Manager

Concord, CA

$120K - $140K/yr

Contracts & Risk Manager Heavy Civil Construction | Bay Area, CA | $120K to $140K + Discretionary Bonus An established, well capitalized heavy civil contractor in the East Bay is hiring a Contracts ...

Artiva Biotherapeutics

Contract Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

The Contract Manager, reporting to the Vice President, General Counsel & Corporate Secretary, is responsible for managing all aspects of Artivas contract activities. The ideal candidate will have a ...

CivicMinds, Inc.

Contract Manager

Irvine, CA · On-site

$95K - $127K/yr

Master's degree in Business or related field * 8-10 years' experience drafting, negotiating, and managing contracts with Government, commercial, and international customers * Thorough knowledge and ...

Sysco Corporation

Region Contract Manager

Walnut, CA · On-site

$108K - $156K/yr

The role will require effectively managing customers as they transition from the Business Development team over to the Regional Contract Sales team and Customer Experience teams (e.g., Field CEx, HQ ...

Sysco

Region Contract Manager

Los Angeles, CA · Remote

$108K - $156K/yr

The role will require effectively managing customers as they transition from the Business Development team over to the Regional Contract Sales team and Customer Experience teams (e.g., Field CEx, HQ ...

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All JobsContract JobsContract Manager JobsContract Manager Jobs in California

Contract Manager information

See California salary details

$40.5K

$104.6K

$137.2K

How much do contract manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract manager in California is $104,646.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,800.00 and $117,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do contract managers do?

Contract managers oversee the creation, negotiation, and management of contracts between organizations and clients or vendors. They ensure compliance with contractual terms, mitigate risks, and handle disputes, often using contract management software. Strong negotiation, communication skills, and knowledge of legal and industry standards are essential for this role.

What is the difference between Contract Manager vs Contract Specialist?

AspectContract ManagerContract Specialist
CredentialsBachelor's degree, certifications like CPCM or NCMABachelor's degree, certifications like CPCM or NCMA
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple contracts, manages teams, strategic planningPrepares, reviews, and negotiates individual contracts, detailed work
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in government, construction, corporate sectorsCommon in government agencies, defense, and large corporations

The main difference is that Contract Managers oversee the entire contract process, manage teams, and handle strategic aspects, while Contract Specialists focus on preparing, reviewing, and negotiating individual contracts. Both roles require similar credentials and are used across various industries, but Contract Managers typically have broader responsibilities and a higher level of oversight.

What are some common challenges faced by Contract Managers and how can they be addressed?

Contract Managers often encounter challenges such as navigating complex legal language, managing tight deadlines, and ensuring compliance with both internal policies and external regulations. Effective communication and attention to detail are crucial when coordinating between legal, procurement, and operations teams. Building strong relationships with stakeholders and staying up-to-date with contract management software can help streamline processes and minimize risks. Proactively addressing issues and maintaining well-organized documentation also contribute to successful contract outcomes.

Is contract manager a stressful job?

Contract managers often face stress due to managing multiple contracts, meeting deadlines, and ensuring compliance with legal and organizational standards. The role requires strong negotiation, attention to detail, and the ability to handle complex negotiations, which can contribute to a high-pressure environment.

What is the role of a contract manager?

A contract manager oversees the creation, negotiation, and execution of contracts between organizations and clients or vendors. They ensure compliance with contractual terms, manage risks, and often use contract management software to track deadlines and obligations. Strong negotiation, communication, and legal knowledge are essential skills for this role.

What does a Contract Manager do?

A Contract Manager is responsible for overseeing the creation, negotiation, execution, and management of contracts within an organization. They ensure that all agreements comply with legal and company standards, mitigate risks, and protect the company's interests. Contract Managers work closely with legal, procurement, and project teams to ensure that contractual obligations are fulfilled and to resolve any disputes that may arise. Their role is crucial in maintaining strong business relationships and supporting organizational goals.

What Does a Contract Manager Do?

A contract manager draws up and reviews contracts for the purchase or sale of goods or services. In this career, you negotiate contracts with customers and vendors, ensuring that you get the best possible price on goods while adhering to all internal policies and financial goals, as well as complying with any local, state, and federal regulations and laws regarding contracts. In addition to negotiating and drawing up contracts, you are also responsible for documenting transactions and negotiations and consulting with other departments that are affected by the terms and conditions of your contracts.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Contract Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Manager, you need a solid understanding of contract law, negotiation, and risk management, often supported by a degree in business, law, or a related field. Familiarity with contract management software, legal research tools, and compliance systems is typically required. Strong communication, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills help you navigate complex agreements and build positive stakeholder relationships. These abilities are essential for minimizing legal risks, ensuring compliance, and driving successful business outcomes.

What are the duties of a contract manager?

A contract manager oversees the creation, negotiation, and execution of contracts to ensure compliance with legal and organizational standards. They review terms, manage contract documentation, monitor performance, and resolve disputes, often using contract management software. Strong negotiation, communication, and attention to detail are essential skills for this role.

How much do contract managers get paid?

Contract managers typically earn a median annual salary between $70,000 and $120,000, depending on experience, industry, and location. Salaries can vary based on the complexity of contracts managed and certifications held, such as Certified Federal Contracts Manager (CFCM).
More about Contract Manager jobs
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What are popular job titles related to Contract Manager jobs in California? For Contract Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Contract Manager jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Manager jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Contract Manager jobs? Cities in California with the most Contract Manager job openings:
Contract Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Manager job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 61% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,646 per year, or $50.3 per hour.
Contract Manager

Contract Manager

Sakata Seed America, INC.

Woodland, CA • On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

JOB SUMMARY: The Contract Manager will work with diverse legal and cross-functional teams playing a critical role in supporting Sakata’s contract and agreement needs, enhancing processes and driving efficiency across the organization. The Contract Manager is responsible for end-to-end contract lifecycle management, including drafting, reviewing, negotiating, and administering a wide range of commercial contracts and agreements (including, but not limited to licensing, confidentiality/non-disclosure, distributor, grower, vendor/3rd party services & procurement, trade, Sales, Research, Production, Consultant, Employee/Personnel, settlement/release, service, construction, asset purchase, lease or sale). Contract Management responsibility covers all agreements held within the company including contracts on packaging, order forms, wrap agreements, electronic contracts or licenses, warranty, liability and terms and conditions of sale.


This role partners with cross-functional stakeholders in Sales, Product Management, Research & Development, Finance, Supply Chain, HR and Corporate Administration to develop and structure agreements that support business objectives while managing risk and ensuring compliance with company policies, procedures and applicable laws. The Contract Manager maintains contract templates, playbooks and standard company terms and conditions. This role is responsible for tracking agreement obligations, renewals, termination and supporting royalty and/or fee calculations where applicable and also assists with dispute/claim documentation and settlement agreements as needed. Under the direction of the Senior Manager, IP, Legal and Complaint, the Contract Manager provides Key Performance Indicators (KPI’s) related to company contracts and contract management.


The Contract Manager will participate in the selection and/or implementation of a new Contract Lifecyle Management (CLM) system and will be responsible for maintaining and managing the company CLM system, supporting internal training and process improvement. This role may also coordinate with outside legal counsel on complex contract matters to maintain contracting best practices and support risk management.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES*:

  • Contract Lifecycle Management:
  • Draft, review, revise, and negotiate agreements including licensing, confidentiality/non-disclosure (NDA), distributor, vendor, customer, and other company contracts as needed.
  • Use CLM system to manage the intake-to-signature process, ensuring appropriate approvals, version control, and timely agreement execution.
  • Maintain accurate contract records, versioning, renewal dates, and key terms/clauses, monitor obligations, deliverables, and notice requirements.
  • Risk, Compliance, and Governance:
  • Identify and communicate contractual risks (e.g., liability, indemnity, warranties, confidentiality, IP ownership, insurance, and dispute resolution) and propose practical risk mitigation strategies.
  • Ensure contracts comply with internal policies, applicable laws, and approved terms/clauses; escalate exceptions and complex issues as appropriate.
  • Support development and maintenance of contracting procedures, playbooks, templates, and standard clauses.
  • Cross-Functional Partnership and Commercial Support:
  • Partner with Sales, Product Management, Finance, Research & Development, Supply Chain, HR and Corporate Administration teams to align contract structures with business needs and timelines.
  • Coordinate with Finance to support royalty calculations, fee schedules, and payment terms for third-party licensors and commercial partners, as applicable.
  • Support documentation for claims, complaint settlements, and agreement amendments; track commitments through closure.
  • Support all areas of the IPR, Legal and Complaint as the need arises, including special projects and new subjects outside area of expertise.
  • Systems, Reporting, and Continuous Improvement:
  • Maintain contract trackers and/or contract management system data; prepare periodic reports on contract volume, cycle time, renewals, and key risk areas.
  • Coordinate and consult with outside counsel on contract laws, contract standards, disputes, or specialized legal matters, as directed.
  • Develop document retention policies and procedures.
  • Provide guidance and basic training to internal stakeholders on standard terms and conditions, contracting processes, and document retention expectations.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

  • Working knowledge of contract structure, legal terminology, and standard commercial provisions (e.g., indemnity, limitation of liability, warranties, confidentiality, governing law, dispute resolution, etc.).
  • Strong negotiation, problem-solving, and analytical skills; ability to manage risk and achieve business objectives.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities independently and meet deadlines.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including ability to translate legal concepts into practical guidance for non-legal stakeholders.
  • Proficient with Microsoft tools (Teams, SharePoint, Word, PowerPoint, Excel) and comfortable learning contract management and ERP systems.
  • Ability to be nimble and flexible on areas of responsibilities with respect to business groups, teams, types of contracts, operational tasks, etc.
  • Strong judgment, integrity, and discretion when handling confidential information.

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Minimum of a B.A./B.S. degree in Business Administration, Agricultural Business, Plant/Agricultural Science or a related field.
  • Ag, Seed, Science background or experience preferred but not required.

EXPERIENCE AND BACKGROUND:

  • A minimum of 3 to 5 years’ experience in contract administration/management, legal operations, or a related business function preferred
  • Experience drafting and negotiating commercial agreements; experience with licensing and royalty-bearing agreements preferred.
  • Experience utilizing contract database systems, workflow systems and/or Contract Lifecycle Management (CLM) system preferred.
  • Demonstrated ability to partner effectively with cross-functional teams and engage outside counsel or vendors when needed.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

  • Must be able to type and/or work at a computer terminal for long periods of time.
  • Must be able to sit for long periods of time.

BENEFITS:

Health & Wellness
Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
Monthly Wellness Stipend
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Disability Insurance (plans vary by location)


Financial Benefits
401(k) Program + Company Match
Profit Sharing Program (via 401(k)

Holiday Bonus

Performance Incentive Bonus Program
Tuition Reimbursement

529 College‑Savings Plan
Company-Paid Basic Life & AD&D Insurance


Time Off & Flexibility
Paid Vacation
Paid Sick Leave
14 Paid Company Holidays
2 Floating Holidays

Birthday Off

*To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty (as described above) satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.