Job Title:  Contracts Specialist

Abaco Systems is a global leader in modular, high performance, open architecture, standards-based rugged embedded computing for the most demanding applications in defense and industry. Our products and solutions are found in high-profile military/aerospace sea, land and air programs, plus commercial and industrial organizations in which rugged reliability is mission critical.

The Contracts Specialist is responsible for managing all aspects of contract creation, negotiation, execution, and administration. This role ensures that contracts are accurately drafted, comply with company policies and legal requirements, and are effectively managed throughout their lifecycle. The Contracts Specialist will work closely with various departments, including legal, procurement, and finance, to support organizational goals and maintain strong vendor and client relationships.

Key Responsibilities:

• Responsible for preparing and/or administering contractual documents that establish and sustain business relationships with customers and/or partners to ensure compliance to company policy, specifications, and other requirements.
• Responds to inquiries regarding RFQ’s, NDA’s, CDRL’s, Terms & Conditions, and other general contract obligations.
• Prepares and submits complex proposals and production re-quotes. Includes ability to review & apply FAR/DFAR flow down compliance.

• Interfaces with customer personnel (procurement, program, engineering, etc.) via e-mail and telephone.
• Interacts daily with other internal departments including Engineering, Quality Assurance, Operations and Finance as required.
• Assists with Export admin & Licensing in accordance with ITAR/EAR regulations.
• Review contractual documents to ensure adherence to company policy, agreed upon specifications and requirements and conformance to master agreements.
• Disseminates Contractual information as appropriate.
• When requested, assists Finance in the resolution of invoicing issues related to contracts.
• Responds to customer requests in a timely manner.
• Maintain a centralized repository of contracts and ensure all contracts are executed and filed properly.
• Track contract milestones, renewal dates, and compliance obligations.
• Identify and address potential contract-related issues or disputes, escalating as necessary. Will be the Abaco primary POC into Corporate Legal team or any outside counsel as required.
• Conduct periodic contract audits and reviews to ensure adherence to company policies and legal standards.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for contract-related inquiries and issues.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders and external parties to resolve contract disputes and facilitate smooth contract execution.
• Prepare and maintain accurate records, reports, and documentation related to contracts and contract administration activities.
• Analyze contract performance and provide recommendations for improvements.
• Ability to maintain an effective and professional demeanor in stressful and/or sometimes confrontational situations.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and discretion.
• Other duties as assigned.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Contracts, Legal Studies, or a related field.
• A certification in contract management (e.g., Certified Professional Contracts Manager, Certified Federal Contracts Manager) is a plus.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in Contract pricing and negotiation.
• Experience with FAR/DFAR compliance and obligations as well as best practice with commercial products and sell side compliance
• Experience filing Export license and other documents with DDTC & BIS.
• Experience in electronics manufacturing industry is preferred.

Qualifications:

• Strong knowledge of contract law and compliance requirements.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational and analytical abilities.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and contract management software (e.g., SAP, Contract Works, DocuSign).
• Ability to handle multiple tasks and prioritize effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Must be self-motivated, results and action oriented. Willing to actively engage with customers and internal stakeholders to help drive the business forward.
• Highly effective and professional verbal and written communication skills with internal and external teams.

Abaco is a Department of Defense (DoD) supplier and as such employees may work with or be exposed to export-controlled information and / or information that has been designated as classified information.