ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Government Contracts Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MELE Associates

Contracts Administrator

Rockville, MD · Hybrid

MELE Associates, Inc. is looking for a knowledgeable, dedicated, experienced, organized, and ... The ideal candidate must have a strong background and deep understanding of Federal government ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsGovernment Contracts Associate Jobs

Government Contracts Associate information

See salary details

$15

$36

$54

How much do government contracts associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Government Contracts Associate, and why are they important?

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 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 Government Contracts Associates?

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 are some 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.
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 job categories do people searching Government Contracts Associate jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Government Contracts Associate jobs are:
Government Contracts Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Government Contracts Associate job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 28% Full Time, 64% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,585 per year, or $36.3 per hour.
Senior Contracts Associate

Senior Contracts Associate

Quantech Services, Inc.

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$155K - $195K/yr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Job Title
Senior Contracts Associate
Functional Title
Contracts Manager
Contract position State Location
Los Angeles - Los Angeles Air Force Base, CA US (Primary)
Education
Master's Degree
Job Type
Full-time
Job Description
Quantech is seeking a highly experienced and strategic Contracts Manager to provide expert advisory and assistance services (A&AS) in support of a major defense program within the Space Systems Command (SSC). This pivotal role will be responsible for the full spectrum of contract management activities, including negotiation, administration, compliance, and the execution of acquisition strategies aimed at supporting SSC's critical mission in developing and sustaining cutting-edge space systems.
The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of Department of Defense (DoD) acquisition regulations (FAR/DFARS), comprehensive experience in contract lifecycle management, and a proven track record of successfully working within U.S. Space Force programs. As a Contracts Manager, you will play a key role in ensuring contractual integrity, mitigating risks, and providing strategic guidance to both our client and internal teams.
You will be embedded within the Space Systems Command (SSC) Space Domain Awareness and Combat Power (SDACP) (SSC/SZ) and Battle Management, Command, Control, and Communications (BMC3) (SSC/BC) directorates. These organizations are responsible for highly classified Space Domain Awareness (SDA) systems, Defensive and Offensive Space Control (DSC/OSC) capabilities, and space test range assets, all crucial for meeting current and projected DoD operational requirements. This dynamic environment requires a professional with a strong understanding of ground, near-space, space, and related operating systems.
Additional Responsibilities:
  • Assist the client in executing source selections in accordance with FAR 9.505-4.
  • Coordinate functional meeting requests related to contractual matters.
  • Develop comprehensive source selection documentation.
  • Review and draft thorough proposal evaluations.
  • Provide expert contract and subcontract management support throughout the contract lifecycle.
  • Assist the client in the execution of various contracting actions, including advising on requests for proposals (RFPs) and technical evaluations.
  • Provide authoritative contracts guidance and determinations to program stakeholders.
  • Advise all levels of management on contractual rights and obligations, proactively identify and mitigate risks, develop effective strategies, and provide solutions to complex problems.
  • Advise and assist in the strategic management of Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contracts and contribute to the development and execution of acquisition strategies for follow-on efforts.
  • Provide technical and operational leadership for program and business management teams on contractual matters.
  • Lead the development of robust contractual and pricing strategies, as well as comprehensive funding and expenditure profiles.
  • Comprehensive working knowledge of Space Systems Command (SSC) contracting regulations and procurement procedures.
  • Proven proficiency in preparing detailed and accurate contract files for review.
  • Demonstrated ability to effectively coordinate between Government organizations and synthesize information for clear and concise presentations.
  • Significant experience working directly with Space Systems Command (SSC) or other Space Force organizations.
  • Expertise in leading the development of sophisticated contractual and pricing strategies, as well as detailed funding and expenditure profiles.
  • Proven experience providing comprehensive general contract office support, including managing and responding to government taskers.

Job Requirements
Minimum Education & Certification(s): MA/MS in Business, Finance, Contract Management, or a related field (or equivalent experience). NCMA Certified Professional Contract Manager (CPCM), Certified Federal Contracts Manager (CFCM), or DAWIA Level II/III Certification in Contracting.
Minimum Yrs. Experience and/or Expertise: 10+ years of experience in contractual rights and obligations, risk avoidance and mitigation, strategy, and problem-solving, with a strong focus on negotiation techniques and skill in devising negotiation strategies.
Clearance: Active TS (SCI Eligible)
Location: El Segundo, CA. Full-time, On-Site (5-days)
Salary information below is a general guide only. Salaries are commensurate with experience and qualifications, as well as business and market considerations.
Salary Range: $155,000 - $195,000
WORK, PHYSICAL AND MENTAL REQUIREMENTS *
Please see standard Work, Physical and Mental Requirements for all Quantech roles.
Work Environment This job operates in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, scanners, filing cabinets and fax machines.
Physical Demands This is largely a sedentary role mostly sitting; however, some filing maybe required . This would require the ability to move files, or boxes with file data, open filing cabinets and bend or stand as necessary, ability to lift up to 40lbs.
Mental Demands: Reading; communicate effectively (verbal and written); maintain emotional control and professionalism.
We hire military.
Security clearance required
TSSCI
Travel
N/A

Apply