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Contracts Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

$93K - $106K/yr

The Senior Research Contracts Associate will draft, review, execute a high-volume of research agreements, and manage a limited number of consortiums. Works independently on all but the most complex ...

Chubb

Compensation & Contracts Associate, Sr.

Chicago, IL · On-site

$70K - $92K/yr

Combined Insurance, is seeking a Senior Compensation and Contracts Associate to join our fast-paced, high energy, growing company. We are proud of our tradition of success in the insurance industry ...

Ria Money Transfer

Corporate Contracts Associate

Denver, CO · On-site

$135K - $175K/yr

... contract negotiations for a broad range of commercial agreements across the money transfer division and providing commercial and regulatory legal advice to business groups. You will draft and ...

L3HHCM20

Senior Associate, Contracts

Huntsville, AL

Senior Associate, Contracts Job Code: 36555 Job Location: Huntsville, AL Job Schedule: 9/80: Employees work 9 out of every 14 days- totaling 80 hours worked- and have every other Friday off The ...

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Contracts Associate information

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$15

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$54

How much do contracts associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for contracts associate in the United States is $36.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.44 and $43.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do contract jobs pay well?

Contracts Associate roles can offer competitive pay, often influenced by experience, industry, and location. Contract positions may also include benefits like flexible schedules or specialized skills, but pay rates vary widely across sectors and project scopes.

What is the difference between Contracts Associate vs Contract Specialist?

AspectContracts AssociateContract Specialist
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree, legal or business background often preferredBachelor's degree, legal or business background often preferred
Work EnvironmentCorporate legal or procurement departments, law firmsCorporate legal, procurement, or government agencies
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in corporations, law firms, and governmentCommon in government, large corporations, and defense sectors
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for contract management rolesOften compared for contract review and negotiation roles

The Contracts Associate and Contract Specialist roles share similar educational backgrounds and work environments, often within corporate legal or procurement departments. While both handle contracts, Contracts Associates typically assist with drafting and administrative tasks, whereas Contract Specialists focus more on review, negotiation, and compliance. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right role based on their skills and career goals.

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

Contracts associates typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are usually found in executive roles, specialized legal positions, or senior corporate leadership. High-paying jobs often require extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes ownership stakes or bonuses. For most professionals, reaching this level involves significant career progression and industry expertise.

What are Contracts Associates?

Contracts Associates are professionals who assist in drafting, reviewing, negotiating, and managing contracts for organizations. They work closely with legal teams, procurement departments, and business units to ensure that contracts comply with legal requirements and company policies. Their responsibilities may also include maintaining contract databases, monitoring contract performance, and supporting contract renewal or termination processes. Contracts Associates play a key role in minimizing risk and ensuring smooth business operations.

What are some typical challenges a Contracts Associate might face when managing multiple agreements simultaneously?

Contracts Associates often handle several contracts at once, which can present challenges such as tracking deadlines, ensuring compliance with various terms, and maintaining clear communication among all parties involved. Effective organization and attention to detail are crucial to avoid errors or missed obligations. Utilizing contract management software and collaborating closely with legal, procurement, and business teams can help streamline processes and reduce risks associated with overlapping timelines or requirements.

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

To thrive as a Contracts Associate, you need a solid understanding of contract law, attention to detail, and a relevant degree such as in law, business, or a related field. Familiarity with contract management systems, document drafting software, and sometimes certifications such as Certified Commercial Contracts Manager (CCCM) are commonly required. Excellent organizational skills, negotiation abilities, and clear communication help you effectively manage workflows and build strong stakeholder relationships. These skills ensure contracts are accurately drafted, compliant, and serve the best interests of the organization.

What does a contracts associate do?

A contracts associate reviews, drafts, and negotiates contracts to ensure legal compliance and protect the company's interests. They often work closely with legal teams and use contract management software to track and organize documents, requiring strong attention to detail and understanding of contractual language.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Contracts Associates typically do not earn $2,000 a day; such high daily rates are usually associated with specialized freelance consultants, senior legal or financial advisors, or high-level executive roles. These positions often require extensive experience, certifications, or working on complex, high-value projects in industries like finance, law, or consulting.
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Contracts Associate jobs near you

Government Contracts Associate Attorney

Direct Counsel

Washington, DC • Hybrid

$225K - $260K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Government Contracts Associate Attorney
Location: Washington, DC (Hybrid)

Direct Counsel is seeking a Government Contracts Associate to join the Government Contracts practice of a leading Am Law 100 law firm in Washington, DC. This is a full-time, hybrid-position supporting a range of government contracts matters across transactional, litigation, compliance, and advisory work, including clients in the Aerospace, Defense, and Next-Generation Energy sectors.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Advise clients on government contracts matters, including bid protests, claims litigation, investigations, compliance counseling, and M&A due diligence involving government contracts

  • Draft, negotiate, and manage complex contracts, licenses, and developmental agreements, particularly for clients in the aerospace, defense, and energy sectors

  • Support transactional matters while also assisting with disputes, internal investigations, and regulatory counseling

  • Conduct legal research and analysis to support case strategy, compliance, and transactional work

  • Draft high-quality legal documents including briefs, motions, contracts, and correspondence

  • Manage cases and transactions from inception through resolution, coordinating with clients and internal teams

  • Build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, providing timely advice and updates

  • Collaborate with lawyers and business professionals to develop innovative solutions and strategies

  • Participate in professional development and contribute to firm initiatives, pro bono work, and community engagement

Qualifications:

  • JD from an accredited law school (minimum GPA 3.5 preferred)

  • Admitted to practice in DC (or eligible for admission)

  • 1–3+ years of experience in government contracts matters, ideally from an Am Law 100 firm or equivalent experience with federal agencies or government contractors

  • Prior experience in Aerospace, Defense, or Next-Generation Energy sectors preferred

  • Prior clerkship with the U.S. Court of Federal Claims or Boards of Contract Appeals, or relevant pre-law professional experience, is a plus

  • Strong legal research, writing, analytical, and problem-solving skills

  • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail

  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment

Work Environment:

  • Hybrid schedule with regular in-office presence and some flexibility for remote work

  • Primarily sedentary work with occasional physical activity as needed

Compensation:

  • Expected base salary: $225,000 – $260,000
    (Final compensation depends on experience and other relevant factors.)

  • Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, and 401(k)

This role offers exposure to complex government contracts matters across transactional, compliance, and litigation work, with opportunities to support high-profile clients in critical industries.