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Subcontract Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Manage subcontracts to ensure timely completion of requirements and the closeout of subcontracts, negotiating subcontract modifications as needed. Positions classified in this discipline are required ...

In this role, you will lead a dedicated Supplier Management Team and serve as the key driver of subcontract performance across the full lifecycle. You will collaborate with internal program leaders ...

Lead the full subcontract lifecycle, including solicitation, competitive procurements, sole-source justifications, supplier selection and onboarding, RFP/RFQ administration, negotiation, award ...

Lead the full subcontract lifecycle, including solicitation, competitive procurements, sole-source justifications, supplier selection and onboarding, RFP/RFQ administration, negotiation, award ...

We are seeking a Subcontracts Manager to own the full subcontract lifecycle, from source selection ... Own the full subcontract lifecycle-requirements definition and SOW generation, solicitation (RFP ...

Manages and administers subcontract agreements from initiation through closeout. * Leads ... negotiation of subcontract terms, pricing, and conditions to achieve favorable outcomes while ...

Subcontracts Manager

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$120K - $170K/yr

We are seeking a Subcontracts Manager to own the full subcontract lifecycle, from source selection ... Own the full subcontract lifecycle-requirements definition and SOW generation, solicitation (RFP ...

Key Responsibilities End-to-End Subcontract Lifecycle Ownership * Lead the full subcontracting ... Manage purchase order creation, execution, and supplier performance to ensure cost, schedule, and ...

Manager, Subcontracts

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$146K - $194K/yr

Lead subcontract proposal and award process. Review subcontractor's proposal and negotiate price, terms, deliverables, and dates while generating required FAR/DFARs documentation. * Conduct ...

Manage complex projects, function as a project leader and/or serve as a supervisor or mentor to other subcontract analysts in the performance of assigned duties and responsibilities. Qualifications

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Showing results 1-20

Subcontract Manager information

See California salary details

$31.6K

$103.9K

$146.6K

How much do subcontract manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for subcontract manager in California is $103,937.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,900.00 and $121,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Subcontract Manager vs Project Coordinator?

AspectSubcontract ManagerProject Coordinator
ResponsibilitiesOversees subcontractor agreements, manages subcontractor performance, negotiates contractsAssists in project planning, coordinates tasks, tracks project progress
Required CredentialsRelevant experience, often a degree in construction or related field, certifications like CSP or CCMTypically a degree or diploma, less specialized certifications required
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, project offices, procurement departmentsOffice settings, project meetings, administrative tasks
Industry UsageCommon in construction, engineering, and large-scale projectsUsed across various industries for project support roles

The Subcontract Manager focuses on managing subcontractor relationships, contracts, and performance, requiring specialized experience and certifications. In contrast, the Project Coordinator provides administrative and logistical support to ensure project tasks are completed on time. Both roles are essential but differ significantly in scope and responsibilities.

What are Subcontract Managers?

Subcontract Managers are professionals responsible for overseeing and managing agreements between their organization and external vendors or subcontractors. They handle the negotiation, execution, and administration of contracts to ensure that all terms and conditions are met. Their duties often include sourcing suppliers, ensuring compliance with regulations, resolving disputes, and monitoring subcontractor performance. Subcontract Managers play a crucial role in mitigating risks and ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget.

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

To thrive as a Subcontract Manager, you need expertise in contract negotiation, supply chain management, and a solid understanding of procurement processes, often supported by a bachelor's degree in business or related field. Familiarity with contract management software, ERP systems, and relevant certifications such as NCMA’s Certified Professional Contract Manager (CPCM) are highly valuable. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help foster productive supplier relationships and resolve issues. These capabilities ensure efficient contract execution, risk mitigation, and alignment with organizational objectives.

What are some common challenges faced by Subcontract Managers, and how are they typically addressed within organizations?

Subcontract Managers often navigate challenges such as negotiating favorable terms with vendors, ensuring compliance with contractual obligations, and managing risks related to cost, schedule, and quality. These challenges are typically addressed through strong communication skills, regular performance reviews, and close collaboration with legal, procurement, and project management teams. Many organizations also provide training in contract law and negotiation techniques to support Subcontract Managers in resolving conflicts and maintaining positive supplier relationships.
What are the most commonly searched types of Subcontract jobs in California? The most popular types of Subcontract jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Subcontract Manager jobs in California? For Subcontract Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Subcontract Manager jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Subcontract Manager jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Subcontract Manager jobs? Cities in California with the most Subcontract Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Subcontract Manager job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $103,937 per year, or $50 per hour.
Subcontract Manager I

Subcontract Manager I

JPL

Pasadena, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Job Details
New ideas are all around us, but only a few will change the world. That's our focus at JPL. We ask the biggest questions, then search the universe for answers-literally. We build upon ideas that have guided generations, then share our discoveries to inspire generations to come. Your mission-your opportunity-is to seek out the answers that bring us one step closer. If you're driven to discover, create, and inspire something that lasts a lifetime and beyond, you're ready for JPL.
Located in Pasadena, California, JPL has a campus-like environment situated on 177 acres in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains and offers a work environment unlike any other: we inspire passion, foster innovation, build collaboration, and reward excellence.
Responsible for the identification, solicitation, selection, award, drafting and management of subcontracts. Develop requirements received in the form of purchase requisitions and project documents into solicitation documents to obtain pricing information, cost, technical and management proposals to establish lowest responsive and responsible bidders or select best value proposers. Utilize all available information to formulate negotiation strategies and conduct negotiations on delivery, price, technical requirements and subcontract terms. Manage the cost, schedule and quality of the requirements under the subcontract to ensure compliance with Laboratory requirements and resolve discrepancies. Manage subcontracts to ensure timely completion of requirements and the closeout of subcontracts, negotiating subcontract modifications as needed. Positions classified in this discipline are required to be in the Acquisitions Division within the Business Operations Directorate.
This is an excellent opportunity to be a Subcontracts Manager in the Communications & Instruments Group of the JPL Acquisition Division which functions as an integral part of all JPL/NASA Missions. This is an Entry Level position for a non-supervisory role. This individual contributor is responsible for managing a portfolio of subcontracts. As a Subcontracts Manager you will execute and manage fixed price, labor hour and cost type subcontracts for commercial items and services, flight hardware, computer hardware & software, fabrication services, technology demonstrations, laboratory and project support and services, instrument and software design and development for potential spaceflight and spacecraft communication applications.
This individual serves as the primary interface with JPL technical and business partners as well as suppliers in support of project procurement requirements. This individual must use critical thinking skills to develop solutions to unique subcontract issues and autonomously oversee the total supply chain management process, from identification of customer requirements through closeout of the subcontract.
As a Level 1 Subcontracts Manager, you will:
  • Be responsible for the identification, solicitation, selection, award, drafting and management of subcontracts.
  • Develop requirements received in the form of purchase requisitions and project documents into solicitation documents to obtain pricing and cost information, and technical and management proposals to establish the lowest responsive and responsible bidders or select the best value proposers.
  • Utilize all available information to formulate negotiation strategies and conduct negotiations on delivery, price, technical requirements and subcontract terms.
  • Manage the cost, schedule and quality of the requirements for assigned subcontracts to ensure compliance with Laboratory requirements and resolve discrepancies.
  • Manage subcontracts to ensure timely completion of requirements and the closeout of subcontracts, negotiating and executing subcontract modifications as needed.
  • Provide excellent customer service by navigating JPL technical and business partners through the total supply chain process.

Required:
  • Typically requires a Bachelors degree in Business Administration or a related discipline with a minimum of 1 year of experience or a Masters degree with 0 years of experience
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously and prioritize appropriately
  • Ability to think clearly and effectively under pressure
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills
  • Excellent customer service skills

Preferred:
  • Work experience utilizing business skills and customer service
  • Some knowledge in the procurement process or total supply chain management process
  • General understanding and application of standard principles, theories, concepts and techniques in procurement
  • Experience with Oracle Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system or other ERP systems
  • Professional Designation in Government Contracts or Purchasing Management and/or membership to related professional affiliations

JPL has a catalog of benefits and perks that span from the traditional to the unique. This includes a variety of health, dental, vision, wellbeing, and retirement plans, paid time off, learning, rideshare, childcare, flexible schedule, parental leave and many more. Our focus is on work-life balance, and living healthy, fulfilling lives as we Dare Mighty Things Together. For benefits eligible positions, benefits are effective the first day of the month coincident with or immediately following the employee's start date.
For further benefits information click Benefits and Perks
The hiring range displayed below is specifically for those who will work in or reside in the location listed. In extending an offer, Jet Propulsion Laboratory considers factors including, but not limited to, the candidate's job related skills, experience, knowledge, and relevant education/training.
The typical full time equivalent annual hiring range for this job in Pasadena, California.
$66,352 - $80,704
JPL is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy or perceived pregnancy, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, protected military or veteran status or any other characteristic or condition protected by Federal, state or local law.
In addition, JPL is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.
EEO is the Law.
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Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision
The Jet Propulsion Laboratory is a federal facility. Due to rules imposed by NASA, JPL will not accept applications from citizens of designated countries or those born in a designated country unless they are U.S. Citizens, Legal Permanent Residents of the U.S or have other protected status under 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3). The Designated Countries List is available here.