0122 - Contracts Manager

Electra is a rapidly growing aerospace startup company devoted to delivering feasible, innovative solutions at the nexus of advanced air mobility and the decarbonization of aviation. Electra’s first commercial product is a turbine hybrid-electric ultra-short takeoff and landing (eSTOL) aircraft designed to have the operational flexibility of a helicopter with the superior payload, range, and low operating costs of conventional fixed wing aircraft. We have an insanely talented team who has accomplished what others said was impossible before, and we’re not afraid to disrupt the status quo as we do it again. Headquartered in northern Virginia, we're on a quest to change aerospace, and the world, for the better. 
About the Role: 
Are you a contracts wizard and master negotiator with a passion for driving transformative projects? We're seeking a Contracts Manager to join our dynamic team in Manassas, Virginia. Reporting directly to the CFO, you'll be at the forefront of our mission, managing contracts from inception to fruition. 
 
Responsibilities & What You'll Do: 

1. Drive R&D Customer Contracts from beginning to end: 

• Be the go-to contracts expert, supporting the business development teams during the proposal process 
• Draft, negotiate and execute contracts directly with your customer counterpart, ensuring compliance with internal and government regulations, while mitigating business risk. 
• Keep our customers in the loop, providing updates and addressing concerns throughout the project lifecycle. 

2. Establish and maintain Subcontracts: 

• Collaborate with supply chain and program teams to draft, negotiate, and formalize subcontracts. 
• Gain thorough understand of subcontract objectives and supplier risks, and craft terms and conditions to mitigate those risks 
• Maintain meticulous documentation and hold subcontractors accountable for their commitments. 

3. Formalize our partnerships 

• Draft and negotiate partnership agreements with strategic customers or major suppliers 

• Draft aircraft purchase agreements in accordance with commitments appropriate for the current development lifecycle. 

4. Empower Contracts Administration: 

• Maintain a repository of legal templates for customer R&D contracts, supplier terms and conditions, NDAs and aircraft purchase agreements. 
• Provide ad-hoc legal support, ensuring compliance across the board. 

Required Skills & Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Business, or related field. 
• 6+ years of experience in contract management or relevant disciplines. 
• Expertise in U.S. government contracts and FARs, with a focus on Small Business Programs. 
• Experience with U.S. export control laws. 
• Strong negotiation skills and a knack for communication. 
• Ability to lead contract execution independently and uphold the highest ethical standards. 
• US Citizenship or Green Card required. 

Desired Qualifications: 

• Law Degree 
• Prior experience in program management, especially in tech-driven industries. 
• Advanced degree and aerospace experience are pluses. 

Travel: Occasional ( 25%) 
Expected onsite presence in Manassas, VA HQ location 4-5 days per week.
Salary: Electra’s salary range for this position is: $81,250.00 - $181,250.00
Our salary ranges reflect the minimum and maximum range for the Company level overall across all locations & projects and does not necessarily reflect the budgeted amount for this position. Individual pay is based on additional factors, including project budgets, job-related skills, experience, relevant education and/or training, role, level, location, and project.