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

Perform contract administrative duties throughout the contract lifecycle including, but not limited to, proposal review and preparation, leading pre and post award negotiations, executing contract ...

Contracts Manager

Albuquerque, NM

$86K - $115K/yr

Perform contract management and administrative duties throughout the contract lifecycle including, but not limited to, proposal review and preparation, leading pre and post award negotiations ...

Interpret and analyze financial information and contract language on Contracts to ensure accurate entry into the ERP; Timely and accurate contract data entry into the ERP and CLM; Initiate requests ...

Interpret and analyze financial information and contract language on Contracts to ensure accurate entry into the ERP; Timely and accurate contract data entry into the ERP and CLM; Initiate requests ...

Showing results 41-60

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.

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:

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.

Contracting Specialist

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

Kirtland Air Force Base, NM

$74K/yr

Part-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Perform all pre-award and post-award contracting functions.

  • Provide business advice to customers related to procurement activities.

  • Use a wide range of contracting methods and types to procure commodities, services, and construction.


U.S. Department Of Defense rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 539 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

Click on "Learn more about this agency" button below for IMPORTANT additional information.
Qualifications:BASIC REQUIREMENTS: Applicants must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited educational institution authorized to grant baccalaureate degrees.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE:
In addition to meeting the basic requirements, applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade accordance with Department of Defense 1102 Qualification requirements:
For the GS-11 grade level: I have successfully completed a bachelor's degree from an accredited educational institution authorized to grant baccalaureate degrees -AND- I have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-09 level. Specialized experience is experience that may have been gained while providing business advice to customers and performing all pre-award/post-award functions, using a wide range of contracting methods and types to procure complex and/or diversified commodities, services and/or construction.
OR
Ph.D (or equivalent doctoral degree) or three academic years of progressively higher level graduate education.
NOTE: For position identified with Contracting Officer duties, applicant must have at least two years of specialized experience in contracting positions, of which one year must have been equivalent to the next lower grade or pay band.
For the GS-12 grade level: I have successfully completed a bachelor's degree from an accredited educational institution authorized to grant baccalaureate degrees -AND- I have at least two years of specialized experience in contracting positions, of which one year is equivalent to the GS-11 level or equivalent pay band. Specialized experience is experience that may have been gained while providing business advice to customers and performing all pre-award/post-award functions, using a wide range of contracting methods and types to procure complex and/or diversified commodities, services and/or construction.
For the GS-13 grade level: I have successfully completed a bachelor's degree from an accredited educational institution authorized to grant baccalaureate degrees -AND- I have at least two years of specialized experience in contracting positions, of which one year is equivalent to the GS-12 level or equivalent pay band. Specialized experience is experience that may have been gained while providing business advice to customers and performing all pre-award/post-award functions, using a wide range of contracting methods and types to procure complex and/or diversified commodities, services and/or construction.
For the GS-14 grade level: I have successfully completed a bachelor's degree from an accredited educational institution authorized to grant baccalaureate degrees -AND- I have at least two years of specialized experience in contracting positions, of which one year is equivalent to the GS-13 level or equivalent pay band. Specialized experience is experience that may have been gained while providing business advice to customers and performing all pre-award/post-award functions, using a wide range of contracting methods and types to procure complex and/or diversified commodities, services and/or construction.
For the GS-15 grade level: I have successfully completed a bachelor's degree from an accredited educational institution authorized to grant baccalaureate degrees -AND- I have at least two years of specialized experience in contracting positions, of which one year is equivalent to the GS-14 level or equivalent pay band. Specialized experience is experience that may have been gained while providing business advice to customers and performing all pre-award/post-award functions, using a wide range of contracting methods and types to procure complex and/or diversified commodities, services and/or construction.
To view occupational requirements for this position, refer to the provisions of subsections (a) and (b) of 10 United States Code (USC) 1724, 10 USC 1723 and 10 USC 1732
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs): Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas:
1. Knowledge of contracting principles, policies and procedures.
2. Knowledge of business practices and market conditions applicable.
3. Skill in applying contract price/cost analysis techniques to a variety of pre-award and/or post-award procurement actions.
4. Ability to communicate both orally and in writing.
PART-TIME OR UNPAID EXPERIENCE: Credit will be given for appropriate unpaid and or part-time work. You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week.
VOLUNTEER WORK EXPERIENCE: Refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service Programs (i.e., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student and social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge and skills that can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.Education:IF USING EDUCATION TO QUALIFY: If position has a positive degree requirement or education forms the basis for qualifications, you MUST submit transcriptswith the application. Official transcripts are not required at the time of application; however, if position has a positive degree requirement, qualifying based on education alone or in combination with experience; transcripts must be verified prior to appointment. An accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education must accredit education. Click here to check accreditation.
FOREIGN EDUCATION: Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the requirements. You must show proof the education credentials have been deemed to be at least equivalent to that gained in conventional U.S. education program. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying.Employment Type: OTHER

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