Kollsman

Senior Director, Contracts

Kollsman$150K — $180K *
Aerospace & Defense
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Law, Contracts Management, Engineering, or related discipline required.
  • 10+ years of extensive experience in contract management, negotiation, and administration.
  • At least 3-5 years of senior or leadership-level experience in contracts.
  • Proven track record managing complex, high-value agreements in technology, defense, or regulated industries.
  • Experience in external negotiations with customers or governing bodies.

Responsibilities

  • Provide strategic leadership and guidance on contract structure and risk management.
  • Lead complex negotiations with U.S. Government agencies and international customers.
  • Establish and execute contracting strategies that align with corporate priorities.
  • Resolve intricate contractual issues impacting program performance.
  • Advise executives and program leadership on contract matters as the subject matter expert.
  • Build strong relationships with customer contracting officers and industry partners.
  • Ensure compliance with Federal Acquisition Regulations and corporate policies.
  • Drive improvements in contracting processes and policies.

Benefits

  • Most locations offer a 9/80 schedule for a three-day weekend every other week.
  • Competitive 401(k) program to help plan for retirement.
  • Robust medical, dental, vision, and disability coverage with wellness discounts.
  • Flexible vacation and paid time off policies.
  • Paid parental leave to support new parents.
  • Generous employee referral program for recruitment.
  • Voluntary benefits for long term care, legal assistance, identity theft protection, and pet insurance.
Full Job Description
Job Summary

The Senior Director of Contracts serves as the Electronic System's Division authority on contract strategy, negotiations, and compliance. This role oversees all aspects of contract formation, execution, and risk management across aerospace and defense programs, ensuring alignment with corporate objectives, customer requirements, and U.S. Government regulations. The Senior Director provides strategic counsel to executive leadership, represents the company in high stakes negotiations, and drives operational excellence in contract management across all business units

Responsibilities and Tasks
  • Provide strategic leadership and expert guidance on contract structure, pricing, terms, and risk posture across major aerospace and defense programs.
  • Lead high value and complex negotiations with U.S. Government agencies, prime contractors, and international customers to secure favorable business outcomes.
  • Establish and execute contracting strategies that align with corporate priorities, regulatory requirements, and long term business objectives.
  • Oversee resolution of intricate contractual issues, including claims, disputes, modifications, and interpretations impacting program performance.
  • Serve as the enterprise subject matter expert on contracts, advising executives, program leadership, supply chain, legal, and finance stakeholders.
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with customer contracting officers and industry partners to advance business interests.
  • Ensure full compliance with Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR/DFARS), corporate policies, ethical standards, and audit expectations.
  • Lead the development, review, and approval of contractual and cost volumes for major proposals, ensuring accuracy, competitiveness, and risk balanced commitments.
  • Drive continuous improvement in contracting processes, tools, policies, and training across the organization.
  • Perform additional responsibilities as needed to support business goals and evolving contract requirements.


Knowledge (Education/License/Certification, Prior Experience)
  • Bachelor's degree required; preferred fields include Business Administration, Law, Contracts Management, Engineering, or a related discipline.
  • Extensive experience (typically 10+ years) in contract management, negotiation, and administration, with at least 3-5 years at a senior or leadership level.
  • Proven track record managing complex, high-value agreements within a technology, defense, or regulated industry environment.
  • Experience representing the organization in external negotiations and interactions with customers or governing bodies.


Skills and Abilities
  • Expert level understanding of contract law, FAR/DFARS, and government contracting principles.
  • Ability to manage and resolve complex contractual issues while providing clear, actionable recommendations to senior leaders.
  • Strong executive level communication, negotiation, and influence skills.
  • Proven leadership capabilities across multi disciplinary teams and stakeholder groups.
  • Advanced analytical and problem solving abilities, with a focus on strategic risk management.


Travel/Physical Requirements
  • Approximately 20% travel may be required for customer meetings, program reviews, and site visits.
  • Work is primarily performed in an office environment; occasional exposure to manufacturing or integration areas may occur.

Here Are Some of the Great Benefits We Offer:

  • Most locations offer a 9/80 schedule, providing every other Friday off
  • Competitive compensation & 401(k) program to plan for your future
  • Robust medical, dental, vision, & disability coverage with qualified wellness discounts
  • Basic Life Insurance and Additional Life & AD&D Insurances are available
  • Flexible Vacation & PTO
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Generous Employee Referral Program
  • Voluntary Benefits Available: Longer Term Care, Legal, Identity Theft, Pet Insurance, and more
  • Voluntary Tricare Supplement available for military retirees


This job description does not list all the duties of the job. You may be asked by your supervisors or managers to perform other duties. The employer has the right to revise this job description at any time. The job description is not an employment contract.

About Kollsman

Elbit Systems of America specializes in technology-based systems for diverse defense and commercial applications. They provide air data products, cockpit instrumentation, commercial aircraft services, head-up displays, and vision systems. They also provide custom product development and manufacturing to fit individual customer needs.

Elbit Systems of America Careers

Joining Elbit Systems of America presents an unparalleled opportunity to advance one's career with a leader in defense, aviation, and technology. This company stands out not only for its commitment to innovation and leadership but also for fostering a culture that values diversity and professional growth.

Explore Job Opportunities

Elbit Systems of America offers a range of job opportunities that cater to a variety of skills and interests. From engineering to project management, the company seeks passionate, creative, and solution-driven team players. Each position at Elbit Systems of America is a chance to contribute to groundbreaking projects that make a difference.

Internship Programs

For those starting their careers, internships at Elbit Systems of America provide invaluable industry experience and networking opportunities. Interns work alongside seasoned professionals, gaining insights that are crucial for future employment. These programs are designed to transform academic knowledge into real-world skills in a nurturing environment.

Professional Growth and Development

Elbit Systems of America is dedicated to the continuous professional development of its team members. With comprehensive training programs, including leadership development and diversity training, employees are equipped to excel in their current roles and prepare for future challenges. The company supports career advancement through professional development courses and certifications.

Benefits and Culture

The benefits at Elbit Systems of America go beyond standard employment perks. Employees enjoy a supportive and inclusive culture, competitive health benefits, retirement plans, and flexible working conditions. The company prioritizes work-life balance and employee well-being, making it a desirable workplace for individuals looking to thrive both professionally and personally.

Hiring Process

The hiring process at Elbit Systems of America is designed to be transparent and efficient. Candidates submit their resumes through the Elbit Systems of America careers portal, where they can also set up job alerts to stay informed about new openings. The interview process assesses not only a candidate's skills but also their potential for growth and alignment with the company’s values.

Networking and Innovation

At Elbit Systems of America, networking and innovation are at the core of the business. Employees are encouraged to engage in cross-departmental collaboration, fostering an environment of learning and new ideas. This approach ensures that Elbit Systems of America remains at the forefront of technology and industry standards.

Join the Team

Elbit Systems of America is actively searching for individuals who are curious, driven, and committed to excellence. Explore open positions that match your skills and interests on the Elbit Systems of America Jobs page. Discover the exciting and rewarding career opportunities that await at Elbit Systems of America.

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