Contract Manager

Job description

Spacecraft represent the most pressing unmet need across the entire aerospace industry. As more launch vehicles come online and the cost to orbit decreases, more companies launching payloads to space continue to emerge. For the first time in history, this influx of payload companies combined with reduced launch costs has resulted in a massive increase in need for commercial spacecraft platforms, known as satellite buses. These buses hold the payloads of our customers and are flown on launch vehicles. Apex manufactures these satellite buses at scale using a combination of software, vertical integration, and hardware that is designed for manufacturing. Our spacecraft enable the future of society: ranging from earth observation to communications and more. We’d love for you to join us on our mission of providing humankind access to the galaxy beyond our planet.  ABOUT THE ROLE Contract Manager Apex is seeking a detail-oriented, organized, and driven Contract Manager to join our expanding team. As a company at the forefront of space exploration and satellite technology, Apex is looking for an individual capable of managing the full lifecycle of the company's contracts. This role is responsible for supporting the legal department and assisting in drafting, reviewing, and administering a wide range of agreements and contract related forms while ensuring compliance and company policies. This position sits within the Legal Department, reports to the Director of Legal, and works closely with the Business Development, Mission Management, Supply Chain, and Finance teams. ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES • With the assistance of counsel, draft, review, and manage a broad portfolio of government and commercial agreements, including MSAs, subcontracts, teaming agreements, NDAs, purchase agreements, and service agreements. • Administer contracts throughout their lifecycle, from intake through execution, performance, modification, renewal, and closeout. • Serve as a liaison between internal stakeholders and external customers, suppliers, and government counterparts to communicate and resolve contractual issues. • Maintain internal databases and records of all contracts, detailing key dates, parties, obligations, deliverables, and scope. • Track contractual deadlines to ensure timely performance and compliance by all parties. • Develop and maintain contract templates, playbooks, and standard terms; recommend improvements to streamline the contracting process. • Support proposal and bid activities by reviewing solicitation documents and flagging terms that require negotiation or clarification. • Perform other job-related duties as assigned. • Perform special projects as needed. REQUIREMENTS • Minimum of 5 years of experience in contract management, contract administration, or a related field. • An understanding of government contractual regulations (e.g., FAR/DFARS). • Bachelor's degree in business administration, legal studies, or a related discipline. • Experience drafting and reviewing a variety of commercial and government agreements and forms. • Ability to facilitate work within and across teams and varied functions and levels of leadership, as well as customer and supplier contacts. • Ability to manage multiple contracts and competing priorities in a fast-paced environment. • Strong oral and written communication skills. • Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc. • Strong interpersonal and professional skills. • A positive, team-player attitude. NICE-TO-HAVE • Experience in satellite manufacturing or related industries (aerospace, defense, or high-tech) is strongly preferred. • Experience with government contracts and familiarity with FAR/DFARS. • Experience with contract lifecycle management (CLM) software. • Experience in other legal or compliance functions, such as export compliance or procurement. • Paralegal certificate, JD, or other relevant legal or contract management credential (e.g., CFCM, CCCM). WHY JOIN APEX? Apex believes in creating a work environment that you look forward to embracing every day. Our employees love working at Apex, and we want you to love it too. We're a fast-growing startup that has raised more than $500M in funding, and we invest heavily in our people from day one. WHAT WE OFFER FOR FULL-TIME EMPLOYEES: - Shared upside: Receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you create - Best-in-class healthcare: 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no cost - Comprehensive PTO package to reset and recharge - starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays - Competitive 401(k) plan with generous matching - 100% match on first 3%, 50% on next 2% - 8 weeks paid parental leave plus childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work-related travel - Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day