Contract Specialist
Aurora Launch Services (ALS): Aurora Launch Services is a wholly owned subsidiary of Alaska Aerospace, established to provide low cost, highly reliable launch services on a contract basis to both government and commercial space launch customers worldwide. The company is headquartered in Anchorage, Alaska, co-located with Alaska Aerospace.
Position Summary: Reporting to the Contract Manager, the Contract Specialist manages the end-to-end procurement lifecycle by developing strategic solicitation documents and overseeing comprehensive contract administration. The role ensures full alignment with federal, state, and internal regulations through proactive performance monitoring, milestone tracking, and deliverable audits. The Specialist serves as the first line point of contact to mitigate risk and ensure contractual obligations effectively support organizational and program objectives.
Location: This position may be based in Kodiak or Anchorage, AK. Work is performed on-site, with occasional travel (<20%) to other operational sites or business-related locations in support of organizational needs.
Primary Job Responsibilities:
1. Lead the creation and analysis of complex solicitation packages, including Invitations to Bid (ITB), Requests for Proposals (RFP), and Requests for Information (RFI); ensure all technical requirements are translated into clear Statements of Work (SOW) or Performance Work Statements (PWS).
2. Ensure all procurement actions and contractual documents adhere to any applicable regulations, including the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS), and applicable state/local statutes.
3. Select and incorporate appropriate federal and state flow-down clauses into contracts and subcontracts to ensure legal and operational compliance across the supply chain.
4. Manage the full post-award lifecycle, in tandem with the programs team, including performance monitoring, delivery schedule oversight, and ensure all milestones are achieved.
5. Work with the program management team and contractor representatives to identify and address any performance issues. Understand and mitigate contractual risk that may be caused by contractor or company personnel.
6. Conduct market research to identify responsible contractors, develop competitive source lists, and evaluate vendor proposals for technical and regulatory conformity.
7. Review contract modifications ensuring all changes are within the original scope and analyzing the impact of modifications on program goals and timelines, prior to sending to the Contract Manager.
8. Serve as the first line point of contact for assigned procurements, facilitating clear communication between internal program teams, corporate leadership, and external vendors.
9. Participate in program planning by evaluating cost/schedule tradeoffs and resource requirements to ensure that procurement strategies align with long-term organizational objectives.
10. Support the Contract Manager with the resolution of contractual disputes, claims, or terminations (for convenience or default) in coordination with legal and management teams.
11. Maintain contractual documentation and records within the company’s documentation database. Work with the Contract Manager to maintain a logical records structure.
12. Work with the program management team on financial projections for contract actions and ensure that appropriate funding is secured and obligated before the execution of change
orders or modifications. 13. Lead the formal administrative close-out of completed contracts, including the de-obligation of excess funds and the release of all contractor claims to ensure total project finality.
14. Work with limited supervision to review all procurement documentation for accuracy, ensuring that all work products meet the high standards of the supported official and company policy.
15. Perform other related duties as assigned.
Required Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Adobe Acrobat, and business systems required; experience with Microsoft SharePoint and Deltek Costpoint preferred.
- Excellent communication (oral and written) and interpersonal skills, able to work with all levels of employees and management within the organization.
- Strong critical and analytical thinking.
- Ability to manage multiple, competing priorities within strict delivery timeframes.
- Understanding of and ability to handle confidential business information (CBI) and government controlled and classified information.
- Ability to multi-task in a very dynamic and complex aerospace environment.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively across teams.
- Strong organizational and time management skills.
Required Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in business administration, finance, economics, or a related field required.
- Minimum of one year of relevant contracts, procurement, acquisition, or compliance experience required with a degree; or five years of progressively responsible specialized experience without a degree. Three or more years of experience in a contracting environment with a solid understanding of the procurement lifecycle is preferred.
- Experience with federal, state, aerospace, defense, or other regulated contracting environments preferred. Relevant certifications such as FAC-C, DoD Contracting Professional Certification/DAWIA, FAC-COR Level II or III, DoD COR equivalent, or other related acquisition or contract management certifications preferred.
- Valid driver’s license required.
Work Environment & Physical Requirements:
This position operates primarily in an office environment with extended periods of sitting and computer use. Occasional standing, walking, and light lifting (up to 20 pounds) may be required. Travel to company facilities or operational sites may be required depending on assigned location and organizational needs.
Supervisory Responsibilities
No direct supervisory responsibilities. This position may require assisting the Contract Manager in training junior personnel when they are brought on. This position may be asked to participate in and to provide input on hiring for specific position.
Additional Requirements:
- Ability to work extended hours, including evenings and weekends, as required by mission campaigns, as applicable.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance (U.S. Citizenship required).
- Successful completion of pre-employment background check and drug screening.
ITAR Requirements
To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
It is the policy of Aurora Launch Services to provide equal employment opportunity to all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.
Compensation
A competitive salary and benefits package, determined upon experience level of individual, will be negotiated after an offer to hire has been given. The anticipated salary range for this position is $81,179 to $97,012 annually.
Inclusive Hiring Statement
We recognize that candidates may not meet every listed qualification and encourage applicants with relevant experience, transferable skills, and interest in the role to apply. Equivalent combinations of education, training, and experience may be considered where appropriate. We are committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive environment and will provide the support needed to help you thrive and succeed in this role.
To Apply
Please apply online on Indeed.com or send a resume and cover letter to [email protected]. Professional references required. For questions call (907) 413-2301. This position will remain open until filled.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $81,179.00 - $124,986.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid jury duty
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Retirement plan
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
- What is your preferred method of communication during the hiring process? Provide contact details here.
- Are you located in Kodiak or Anchorage, AK?
Education:
Experience:
- Contracts: 5 years (Preferred)
Security clearance:
Work Location: In person
