1

Government Contracts Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Government Contracts Attorney + Hybrid Schedule + Bid Protests + FAR/DFARS + Direct Client Contact ... Opportunity for advancement at the associate, senior associate, or counsel level * Stable, growing ...

A litigation boutique firm with a national reputation is looking for an Associate that specializes in Government Contracts This Jobot Job is hosted by: Cam Strahm Are you a fit? Easy Apply now by ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Government Contracts Associate information

See salary details

$15

$36

$54

How much do government contracts associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for government 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.

What is a government contracts associate?

Government Contracts Associates are legal professionals who specialize in advising clients on matters related to securing, negotiating, and complying with government contracts. They help organizations understand complex federal, state, and local procurement regulations, draft and review contract documents, and represent clients in disputes or audits involving government agencies. Their work ensures that businesses fulfill legal requirements and maximize opportunities when working with government entities.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a government contracts associate?

To thrive as a Government Contracts Associate, you need a solid understanding of federal procurement laws, contract negotiation, and compliance, usually supported by a JD degree and relevant legal experience. Familiarity with systems like SAM.gov, FAR (Federal Acquisition Regulation), and contract management software is typically required. Exceptional attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong written and verbal communication skills make candidates stand out in this role. These skills ensure accurate contract drafting, effective risk mitigation, and successful navigation of complex government regulations.

What are common challenges faced by government contracts associates when working with federal procurement regulations?

Government Contracts Associates often encounter the challenge of navigating complex and frequently changing federal procurement regulations, such as the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and agency-specific supplements. Staying compliant while managing tight deadlines and coordinating with multiple stakeholders, including legal, finance, and project management teams, can require strong organizational skills and attention to detail. Continuous learning and proactive communication are essential to ensure contract terms are met and risks are mitigated.

What is the difference between Government Contracts Associate vs Contract Specialist?

AspectGovernment Contracts AssociateContract Specialist
CredentialsBachelor's degree, knowledge of government contracting lawsBachelor's degree, often with certifications like NCMA or DAWIA
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, defense contractors, consulting firmsFederal agencies, defense contractors, private sector
Employer & IndustryPrimarily government and defense sectorsGovernment agencies, defense, aerospace, and related industries

The Government Contracts Associate and Contract Specialist roles share similar educational backgrounds and work environments, often within government or defense sectors. While both handle contract processes, the Associate typically supports contract administration, whereas the Contract Specialist manages negotiations and compliance. The roles are closely related, with the Contract Specialist often requiring more experience or certifications.

More about Government Contracts Associate jobs

What cities are hiring for Government Contracts Associate jobs?

Cities with the most Government Contracts Associate job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Government Contracts jobs?

The most popular types of Government Contracts jobs are:

What states have the most Government Contracts Associate jobs?

States with the most job openings for Government Contracts Associate jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Government Contracts Associate jobs?

For Government Contracts Associate jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Government Contracts Associate job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, 33% Part Time, and 34% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $75,585 per year, or $36.3 per hour.

Government Contracts Associate

Washington, DC • On-site

DLA Piper LLP (US)
Legal Services • 5 - 10K employees

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


DLA Piper rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 35 rated law firms


Job description

DLA Piper is, at its core, bold, exceptional, collaborative and supportive. Our people are the backbone, heart and soul of our firm. Wherever you are in your professional journey, DLA Piper is a place you can engage in meaningful work and grow your career. Let’s see what we can achieve. Together.

Summary

We are looking for a mid-level associate to join our firm’s Government Contracts practice to handle an array of Government Contract issues including bid protests and claims litigation, investigations, compliance counseling, and M&A due diligence in matters involving government contracts. The candidate must have a demonstrated interest in and experience with Government Contracts. The ideal candidate would have 4-5 years of experience in a firm’s government contracts practice or the equivalent experience handling procurement-related issues for a Federal agency, and experience serving as a lead associate on government contract litigation, diligence, and/or investigation matters. Law school course work related to Government Contracts and/or a clerkship with the U.S. Court of Federal Claims, Federal Circuit, or Boards of Contract Appeals is preferred but not required. Submission of a resume, transcript, writing sample and two references is required at time of application submission.

Responsibilities
  • Legal Research: Conduct thorough and comprehensive legal research and analysis to support case/transaction preparation and strategy.
  • Legal Writing: Draft well-written, error free, and reasoned legal documents, including briefs, motions, contracts, and correspondence.
  • Case/Transaction Assistance and Management: Assist/Manage a variety of complex cases/transactions from inception to resolution including preparing for trials, negotiations, settlements, closings, and other legal activities while continuously demonstrating strong judgement.
  • Internal/External Client Interaction: Build, maintain, and cultivate strong internal and external client relationships by providing support, regular updates, advice, and addressing concerns promptly and with the utmost professionalism.
  • Collaboration: Work collaboratively with other lawyers and business professionals to support and develop innovative case/transaction strategies to achieve the most favorable outcomes for internal and external clients.
  • Attend, support, and participate in high-level legal activities including court hearings, depositions, negotiations, trials, etc.
  • Compliance: Ensure rigorous compliance with legal standards and regulations, staying abreast of changes in law and legal precedents.
  • Professional Development: Proactively seek out and participate in ongoing training and development opportunities to enhance your legal knowledge, practice technology, management, and leadership skills.
  • Firm Citizenship and Community Involvement: Engage in and contribute to; firm programs and initiatives; civic and professional organizations; pro bono work by providing legal assistance to underserved and underrepresented communities.
Desired Skills
  • Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
  • Strong research, analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Attention to detail.
  • Good business and professional judgment.
  • Excellent organizational skills.
  • Ability to work collaboratively and independently.
  • Conceptual thinking.
  • Persuasive communication.
  • Management skills.
Education

JD Degree from an accredited law school.

Certifications

Admitted to practice in DC.

Experience

4 - 5 years of relevant experience.

Direct and applicable law firm, government, and/or clerkship experience involving government contracts.

Essential Job Expectations

While the specific job requirements of a DLA Piper position may vary depending upon scope of the job and area of specialty, there are certain universal requirements that are expected of all DLA Piper employees, which include but are not limited to: Effectively communicate, verbally and in writing, with clients, lawyers, business professionals, and third parties; Produce deliverables, answer phone calls, and reply to correspondence in an efficient and responsive manner; Provide timely, accurate, and quality work product; Successfully meet deadlines, expectations, and perform work duties as required; Foster positive work relationships; Comply with all firm policies and practices; Engage in both physical and sedentary activity, such as (a) working at a computer for extended periods of time, including on-screen reading and typing; (b) participating in digital/virtual conference calls; (c) participating in meetings as needed; Ability to work under pressure and manage competing demands in a fast-paced environment; Perform all other duties, tasks or projects as assigned. Our employees are expected to embrace and uphold our firm values as a part of our DLA Piper culture. We are committed to excellence in how we represent our clients and develop our people.

Physical Demands

Sedentary work: This is primarily sedentary work, requiring occasional exertion of up to 10 pounds of force to lift, carry, push, pull, or move objects. The role involves sitting for extended periods, with occasional walking and standing, and occasional travel, both domestic and international.

Work Environment

The firm’s work location requirements may be modified at the firm’s discretion Hybrid - Regular in-office presence with some flexibility for work-from-home

Disclaimer

This job description provides a concise overview of the role and is not intended to describe all work elements that may be performed. It should not serve as the sole criteria for personnel decisions. Job duties, requirements, and expectations may be modified at the firm’s discretion at any time. This job description does not alter the at-will nature of employment.

Pay Transparency

The firm’s expected hiring range for this position is $310,000 - $365,000 per year depending on the candidate’s geographic market location. The compensation offered for employment will also be dependent on other factors including the candidate’s experience, skills, educational and professional background, and overall qualifications. We offer a comprehensive package of benefits including medical/dental/vision insurance, and 401(k). Applicants who are not based in the jurisdiction in which this position is posted and who apply for this role are doing so voluntarily and are not eligible for relocation assistance. Any relocation benefits, if any, are provided only where a relocation is required at the firm’s direction and in accordance with applicable policy and law.

#J-18808-Ljbffr

What DLA Piper employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


DLA Piper logo

About DLA Piper

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

DLA Piper is one of the largest business law firms in the world and one of the most recognized law firm brands globally. Since our firms founding, we have established ourselves as an innovative and entrepreneurial firm that is deeply committed to our global core values of people, clients and community. In fact, it is the individual members of the DLA Piper teamthe combination of talented lawyers and business professionals working togetherthat define our success and drive our growth.

Industry

Legal services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

City of London, Greater London, GB