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Contract Specialist Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM (NOW HIRING)

Tecolote Research

Contract Specialist

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

Overview We are seeking a motivated Contract Specialist (Advanced Analyst) to support DoD and space-related acquisition programs in Albuquerque, NM. The ideal candidate will have at least five years ...

Tecolote Research

Contract Specialist

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

Overview Tecolote is seeking an experienced Senior Contract Specialist to support major DoD acquisition and space-related programs. The ideal candidate will have at least 10 years of contract ...

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All JobsContract Specialist JobsContract Specialist Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

Contract Specialist information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$36.2K

$76.5K

$111K

How much do contract specialist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract specialist in Rio Rancho, NM is $76,470.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,600.00 and $92,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract specialist?

A contract specialist is a professional responsible for drafting, reviewing, and managing contracts to ensure compliance with legal and organizational standards. They often work in government agencies or corporations, requiring knowledge of procurement processes, negotiation skills, and familiarity with contract management tools. Their role helps facilitate secure and effective agreements between parties.

How much does a contract specialist earn?

A contract specialist typically earns a median annual salary of around $65,000 to $85,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Salaries can vary based on the industry, level of certification, and whether they work in government or private sectors.

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

To thrive as a Contract Specialist, you need a strong understanding of contract law, negotiation techniques, and procurement processes, typically supported by a bachelor’s degree in business, law, or a related field. Familiarity with contract management software, ERP systems, and certifications such as CPCM (Certified Professional Contracts Manager) are highly beneficial. Excellent attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills set outstanding professionals apart in this field. These competencies ensure compliance, mitigate risk, and promote successful business agreements for their organization.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

Contract specialists typically do not earn $500,000 annually; high-paying roles in the US reaching this level are often in executive management, specialized medical fields, investment banking, or corporate law. These positions usually require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and specialized skills, and compensation may include bonuses and stock options.

What is the difference between Contract Specialist vs Contract Administrator?

AspectContract SpecialistContract Administrator
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree; often certifications like NCMA or NCMA-CertifiedBachelor's degree; certifications like NCMA or NCMA-Certified are common
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, defense, corporate sectorsGovernment agencies, corporate sectors, private companies
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in government and defense contractingWidely in government, corporate, and private sectors
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Contract Specialists focus on negotiating, drafting, and analyzing contracts, often in government or defense sectors. Contract Administrators manage contract execution, ensuring compliance and performance. While both roles require similar credentials and work environments, Contract Specialists are more involved in the negotiation phase, whereas Contract Administrators oversee contract performance post-award.

What are Contract Specialists?

Contract Specialists are professionals responsible for managing, drafting, reviewing, and negotiating contracts between organizations and vendors, suppliers, or clients. They ensure that agreements comply with legal requirements and organizational policies, while also protecting their employer’s interests and minimizing risks. Contract Specialists often collaborate with legal, procurement, and project management teams to oversee the contract lifecycle from initiation to completion. Their work is essential in both the public and private sectors to facilitate smooth business operations and maintain strong professional relationships.

What Is a Contract Specialist?

A contract specialist oversees the review and negotiation of contracts between two or more parties. As a contract specialist, your responsibilities include reviewing existing contracts to be sure both parties are fulfilling their requirements, mediating and addressing shortcomings, and negotiating new contracts. You may also be asked to research alternatives and execute these options. Contract specialists may work with various professionals within a business, such as purchasing agents or the purchasing manager. Your job is to ensure that both parties feel they are being treated fairly and are therefore willing to agree to the terms of the contract.

What certifications do you need to be a contract specialist?

Contract specialists typically benefit from certifications such as the Certified Federal Contracts Manager (CFCM), Certified Professional Contracts Manager (CPCM), or the Defense Contract Management Certification. These credentials demonstrate expertise in contract law, procurement processes, and federal regulations, and can enhance job prospects and professional credibility.

How does a Contract Specialist typically collaborate with legal and procurement teams during the contract lifecycle?

Contract Specialists work closely with both legal and procurement teams to ensure contracts are compliant, cost-effective, and aligned with organizational goals. During contract drafting and negotiation, they coordinate with legal counsel to address risk management and regulatory requirements. Simultaneously, they partner with procurement professionals to understand supplier capabilities, pricing structures, and delivery terms. This cross-functional collaboration is essential for developing robust contracts and resolving any issues that arise throughout the contract lifecycle.
More about Contract Specialist jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Specialist jobs in Rio Rancho, NM? The most popular types of Specialist jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:
What are popular job titles related to Contract Specialist jobs in Rio Rancho, NM? For Contract Specialist jobs in Rio Rancho, NM, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Contract Specialist jobs in Rio Rancho, NM look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Specialist jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:
What cities near Rio Rancho, NM are hiring for Contract Specialist jobs? Cities near Rio Rancho, NM with the most Contract Specialist job openings:
Contract Specialist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Specialist job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 63% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,470 per year, or $36.8 per hour.
Contract Specialist I

Contract Specialist I

Chenega Professional & Technical Services

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

$62K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Summary

Come join a company that strives for Extraordinary People and Exceptional Performance! Chenega Professional & Technical Services, LLC, a Chenega Professional Services’ company, is looking for a Contracts Specialist I to provide acquisition support services to the Office of Acquisition Management (OAM) and Management and Budget (MB) within the Department of Energy’s (DOE) National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA).  The Contracts Specialist I will assist NNSA in contract and grant closeouts.

Our company offers employees the opportunity to join a team where there is a robust employee benefits program, management engagement, quality leadership, an atmosphere of teamwork, recognition for performance, and promotion opportunities. We actively strive to channel our highly engaged employee’s knowledge, critical thinking, innovative solutions for our clients.


Responsibilities
  • Receive and upload into automated systems contract information.
  • Close all types of contracts and prepare the closeout file accordingly.
  • Contact contractors as needed to obtain required documentation.
  • Fill out a completion checklist to track and document closeout actions.
  • Review documents submitted by contractors for accuracy and completeness.
  • Obtain required scientific and technical reports.
  • Prepare modifications to de-obligate excess funds, and/or close out the contracts.
  • Record the closeout, update all systems with retired date and distribute finalized documentation to appropriate offices.
  • Submit all files of a closed instrument to the appropriate entity for Records Inventory Disposition Schedule (RIDS).
  • When required, request audit information from the Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA) or from NNSA and reconcile audit information.
  • Other duties as assigned

Qualifications
  • Minimum of a High School diploma.
  • Must be able to report onsite full time in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
  • Minimum of one to three years contracting with experience in general contract closeout procedures.
  • A Bachelor’s degree can be substituted for 2 years of experience combined with 1 year of on-the-job experience to meet the minimum qualification of 3 years (total) contracting experience.
  • Must possess knowledge of general procedures for contract closeout, including de-obligation of any funding balances, closeout modifications, contract file validation, review, and validation of financial records, and preparing past performance information.

 Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

  • Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
  • Skilled at using Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook Mail, Microsoft Edge, and Adobe Acrobat.

Estimated Salary/Wage
USD $62,000.00/Yr. Up to USD $68,000.00/Yr.

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