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Government Contracts Associate Jobs in California

Tecolote Research

Contracts Business Associate

Goleta, CA · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Analyze subcontractor proposals for compliance with Government/customer, Prime Contract, and company requirements. * Perform price and cost analysis and support, fact-finding and negotiations of ...

Boutique Recruiting

Associate Attorney

Irvine, CA · On-site

$180K - $245K/yr

... disputes, government contracts, surety, and complex commercial litigation. Rather than being limited to research or isolated assignments, associates gain hands-on exposure to client strategy ...

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All JobsGovernment Contracts Associate JobsGovernment Contracts Associate Jobs in California

Government Contracts Associate information

See California salary details

$15

$35

$54

How much do government contracts associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for government contracts associate in California is $35.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.11 and $43.17 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.

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

The most popular types of Government Contracts jobs in California are:

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

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

What job categories do people searching Government Contracts Associate jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Government Contracts Associate jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Government Contracts Associate jobs?

Cities in California with the most Government Contracts Associate job openings:

Government Contracts Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Government Contracts Associate job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,595 per year, or $35.9 per hour.

Intermittent Employee Investigator - Santa Maria, CA

OMNIPLEX World Services Corporation

Santa Maria, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Conduct in-person, one-on-one subject interviews to obtain factual information about individuals' backgrounds and character.

  • Travel within the geographic area of responsibility to conduct investigations at various locations such as employment sites, residences, and educational institutions.

  • Develop and maintain effective working relationships with managers, government organizations, and law enforcement agencies through regular communication.

Job description

OMNIPLEX World Services Corporation is seeking talented individuals committed to excellence, honesty, and integrity to join our team.We are a trusted provider of high quality background investigations programs to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the intelligence community at locations throughout the United States. OMNIPLEX is seeking to fill immediate and upcoming openings for Contract Investigators.A Contract Investigator works for us on an as needed basis and no hours are guaranteed. We prefer Contractors to be available to work a minimum of ten hours per week where work is available.Candidate must be willing to travel within a 35-50 mile radius from city location.
  • Candidate must be local to Santa Maria, CA
QUALIFICATIONS:
  • U.S. Citizenship;
  • H.S. Diploma or equivalent;
  • Minimum of 1 year of specialized Federal Background investigative experience within the last 5 years;
  • Must have some FIS Experience;
  • Reliable personal vehicle, valid driver's license, and satisfactory driving record;
  • Willing to travel on temporary duty assignments as needed (by car or plane);
  • Successfully pass background checks and all required training;
  • Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists;
  • Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in oral, written, diagram, or schedule form;
  • Ability to read, analyze, and interpret professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations;
  • Ability to write reports and business correspondence;
  • Ability to work in a MS Window based operating environment, including proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Internet and E-mail;
  • Current (within the last 2 years) Single Scope Background Investigation (SSBI) or active Secret level security clearance based on an SSBI and able to obtain the required security clearance.
Job Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Conduct in-person, one-on-one subject interviews to obtain factual information about the individual's background and character, in accordance with agency guidelines and instructions.
  • Obtain factual information from a variety of personal and record sources to produce a report of investigation that contains all pertinent facts of an individual's background and character in accordance with agency guidelines and instructions.
  • Travel throughout the geographic area of responsibility to conduct investigations at various places of employment, residence, and education institutions as cases are assigned.
  • Must be willing to travel in and around assigned location within 30-50 miles (or more) as needed
  • Engage in dialogue on a regular basis with managers and representatives at contractor facilities, various U. S. Government organizations, and law enforcement agencies to develop and maintain effective and cooperative working relationships.
  • Adapt to changing situations and environments as they occur and be able to interact with people from all walks of life and socioeconomic levels.
  • Demonstrate strong verbal and written communications skills and exhibit professional demeanor in all situations.
  • Work load based on availability of cases in geographic area.
  • Some voluntary, temporary duty assignments in other areas of the country (typically 2-4 weeks at a time) are possible.
  • Other duties as required.
Desired Experience and Education:
  • Background Investigator Training that meets the National Training Standards (NTS)
  • Prior background investigations experience supporting government contracts.
  • Associate or Bachelor degree in Criminal Justice or a related field.
  • Current Top Secret clearance

WORKING CONDITIONS:
Work is typically based in the investigator's home office as well as in the investigator's personal vehicle traveling to various field locations to conduct interviews. Coverage area varies and could include some extended drives. Work hours vary depending on availability of leads and do not always fall within normal business hours, to include potential weekend hours or third-shift appointments.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
Requires intermittent standing, writing/typing, walking, sitting, and driving throughout the workday, and may include for multiple hours.

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