Contracts Administrator

Job Summary

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Entry-Level Contracts Administrator to join our growing Contracts team. This position offers an excellent opportunity to build a strong foundation in government and commercial contract administration, working closely with senior contracts professionals and cross-functional departments such as Sales, Finance, and Program Management. The successful candidate will assist in the preparation, review, and administration of contracts and documentation in compliance with Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and other applicable requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in reviewing solicitations and requests for proposals (RFPs) to support the proposal process.
• Ensures adherence to internal policies for Quotes and Proposals regarding ATS Delegation of Authority.
• Creates Quotes in accordance with approved pricing documentation and ATS policies and procedures.
• Creates and submits sales orders accurately into the ATS ERP systems at either site location via approved processes.
• Reviews and provides guidance to ATS Planning and Shipping teams regarding the sales order requirements.
• Keeps detailed documentation in ATS Contracts Department SharePoint site in accordance with the Departments policies and procedures.
• Help prepare and organize contract documentation, including proposals, certifications, and supporting materials.
• Prepare and submit customer/supplier certifications and representations.
• Maintain contract records, databases, and filing systems to ensure compliance and audit readiness.
• Support the tracking of contract deliverables, deadlines, and funding status.
• Assist in the preparation of contract modifications, extensions, and closeout documentation.
• Work with internal teams (program, finance, procurement) to support contract execution and compliance.
• Monitor contract performance milestones and assist with reports to internal stakeholders.
• Communicate professionally with government agencies and/or prime contractors under the guidance of senior staff.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Legal Studies, Public Administration, or a related field (required).
• Internship or academic experience related to contract administration, procurement, government affairs, or legal support (preferred but not required).
• Basic understanding of government contracting principles and the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) is a plus.
• Some exposure to contract review processes, including non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) and basic redlining of contract terms (preferred).
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint).
• Ability to learn quickly and take initiative in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Skills (Not Required)

• Exposure to Deltek, Unanet, SAP, or other contract management tools.
• Coursework or certification in contract management or government procurement.
• Familiarity with contract types such as FFP, CPFF, or T&M.

What We Offer

• On-the-job training and mentorship from experienced contracts professionals.
• Exposure to real-world U.S. Government contracts (DoD, civilian agencies, prime/subcontract).
• Career development support and access to industry certifications (e.g., CFCM, CPCM, DAWIA).
• Competitive salary, benefits, and PTO package.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

Office Setting: This position is performed predominately or exclusively on-site at the office or other approved worksite. This may occur in a personal office or in a moderately noisy shared work area with an assigned cubicle.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to type on a keyboard as well as feel and manipulate items; reach with hands and arms; and talk and hear over headphones, other communication devices, or in person. The employee is frequently required to stand, walk, and sit. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds, and intermittently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.

The employee may be intermittently exposed to outside weather conditions, and is occasionally exposed to fumes, building temperature fluctuation, dust, chemicals, odors, and low-to-moderate levels of noise. Other conditions may include frequent interruptions, working alone, working long hours during peak periods, and extended exposure to computer monitors. Safety glasses and hearing protection may be required at times.

Pay and benefits

For individuals hired to work in California, Astronics Test Systems (ATS) is required by law to include a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role. This compensation range is specific to California. Any offer extended to a candidate will be based upon their unique set of knowledge, skills, education, and experience, as well as internal equity. A reasonable estimate of the range for this position is $70,000 - $72,000 / year.

Employment Eligibility Requirements

• An offer of employment is contingent on successfully passing a drug test and background check
• This position may involve access to items subject to U.S. export-control laws. Employment is contingent upon the employee's authorization to access such items under applicable law. The company does not guarantee and is under no obligation to seek such authorization if it would be necessary.

Astronics Test Systems offers a competitive benefit package including

• Stay Healthy - Health, dental, vision, disability, life insurance, FSA, HSA, as well as voluntary life/AD&D, voluntary critical illness, accident prevention and hospital indemnity
• Save for the Future - 401K & Employee Stock Purchase Plan
• Find Balance - Employee Assistance Program & Wellness Program
• Time for You - Generous Paid Time Off, Paid Holidays and Paid Parental Leave
• Professional Growth - Tuition Reimbursement Program