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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 ...

Chenega Corporation

Contract Specialist I

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$62 - $68/hr

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 ...

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 ...

Chenega Corporation

Contract Specialist I

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$68K/yr

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 ...

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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 Sep 5, 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 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 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.

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.

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.

Is a contract specialist a hard job?

A contract specialist's job involves reviewing, negotiating, and managing contracts, which requires attention to detail, strong communication skills, and knowledge of legal and regulatory requirements. The role can be demanding due to tight deadlines and the need for accuracy, but it is generally manageable with proper training and experience.

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 Certified Commercial Contracts Manager (CCCM). These certifications demonstrate expertise in contract law, procurement processes, and negotiation skills, and may be required or preferred by employers depending on the industry and level of responsibility.
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:

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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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 3% 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

Tecolote Research

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

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 of contract management experience with knowledge of government pricing activities, contract negotiations, FAR regulations, and DoD acquisition processes.
Responsibilities
  • The applicant will be responsible for performing and training government personnel in conducting government pricing activities such as cost/price analysis, fact-finding, audit, and negotiation of contract actions.
  • They will be supporting and working directly for the government Procurement Contracting Officer (PCO).
  • Actively interfacing with contractors, DCAA, and DCMA. Develop and update documentation to support the above such as briefs, training packages, Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), policy updates, and guidebooks.
  • Prepare Price Negotiation Memorandum (PNM) and Price Competition Memorandums (PCMs) as required.
  • Applicant will also perform ConWrite and CON-IT administrative duties.

Skills Required
  • The position requires at least 5 years of contract management experience, preferably in support of space related programs.
  • Applicant should have a Bachelor's degree in one the following fields: Management, Business, Economics, Finance, Accounting, Mathematics, Science, Technology, Engineering, or Statistics.
  • Applicant should be proficient in the use of M/S office applications, i.e., M/S Word, PowerPoint, and Excel.
  • Excellent verbal communication, written, and quantitative analytical skills are required.
  • The candidate should have experience working on major DoD acquisition programs and be proficient in using the government contract writing system (ConWrite).
  • Applicant must be proficient in performing government pricing activities such as cost/price analysis, fact-finding, audit, and negotiation of contract actions.
  • They should also have a working knowledge of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), associated supplements, and other regulatory requirements.
  • Prior DoD contracting experience highly desirable.
  • Applicant must be able to work in a team environment.
  • Applicant must be able to obtain the proper security clearance.
  • U.S. citizenship required.

Education
Bachelor's degree required, preferably in math, engineering, business, or the sciences.

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