Director of Contracts in Addison, Texas at Firehawk Aerospace Inc

Director of Contracts
Firehawk is a leading propulsion-focused aerospace and defense company located in Addison, TX. Our innovative approach empowers us to design and manufacture cutting-edge solid and hybrid rocket motors and engines. We aim to push the boundaries of propulsion technology to serve both commercial and defense sectors.

Position Summary
The Director of Contracts lead contracts function across government and commercial contracts, subcontracts, third-party agreements, contract terms and conditions, data rights, and contract compliance. This role serves as the company's primary authority on contracting matters and partners closely with Program Management, Finance, Legal, and Business Development teams to ensure contractual commitments are strategically aligned, executable, and appropriately managed. The Director will also be responsible for building and leading the contracts organization as the company continues to grow.

Responsibilities
Contract Formation and Negotiation
Negotiate and execute prime contracts, subcontracts, and modifications with government and commercial customers, including FAR-based contracts, Other Transaction agreements, and SBIR/STTR awards.
Review solicitations and draft contract terms for compliance with FAR/DFARS, flow-downs, representations and certifications, and company policy; advise leadership on performance, financial, and business risk.
Negotiate NDAs, teaming agreements, and reseller, partner, and 1099 agreements, ensuring upstream and downstream terms align.
Own the company's standard terms and conditions and keep them current and published.
Coordinate with outside counsel for legal review and specialized input as needed.

Contract Administration
Administer active government and commercial contracts through closeout, including modifications and ECPs, deliverables, invoicing and financing terms, and tracking of obligations and deadlines.
Manage post-award issues, including requests for equitable adjustment, delays, government-furnished property and information, scope disputes, and claims.
Maintain complete, audit-ready contract files; support audits and progress reviews; and close out contracts on time.
Manage subcontracts after award, including flow-down compliance, performance issues, and modifications.
IP, Data Rights, and Compliance
Lead the contracting side of the company's IP and data rights strategy, including assertions, markings, and protection of commercial and proprietary rights in new contracts and subcontracts.
Ensure IP and data rights requirements are met in contracts and during performance, and train staff on marking and compliance.
Identify contractual compliance issues and drive them to timely resolution.

Function Leadership
Build and scale the contracts function, including policies, procedures, workflows, tools, and, over time, staff.
Train program, finance, and leadership teams on contracting requirements and risks.
Support growth into new contract vehicles, sole-source opportunities, and international customers.
What Success Looks Like
Leadership, peers, and staff treat the Director as the authority and approval point for contracting matters.
Contracts are administered with zero compliance findings, and issues are flagged and resolved promptly.
All third-party agreements are current and on terms acceptable to the company.
Programs, Finance, Contracts, and Legal are aligned on contractual positions; where they are not, the Director drives them to agreement.
Commercial data rights and terms are protected in every applicable new contract and subcontract.
Customers and partners view the Director as fair, firm, and expert.

Qualifications
[10+] years of U.S. Government contracts experience, including prime contracts and subcontracts.
Strong working knowledge of FAR/DFARS, Other Transaction authority, SBIR/STTR, and data rights and IP regulations.
Commercial contracting experience; experience with dual-use or emerging-technology companies preferred.
Demonstrated success negotiating complex agreements and managing post-award disputes.
[Active TS clearance or ability to obtain one.]
Former government contracting officer experience or DAWIA/NCMA certification preferred.

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.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements:
Employees in these positions must possess mobility to work in a standard office setting and to use standard office equipment, including a computer; stamina to sit and to maintain attention to detail despite interruptions; may occasionally lift/carry/push/pull up to 25 pounds; may require minimal walking, standing for extended amounts of time, climbing, crouching, and/or bending; and vision to read printed materials and a computer screen, and hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone. May require the ability to travel by air or auto. May require the use of personal protective equipment such as safety glasses, safety shoes, and shop coat.

Security Clearance:
May be required to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance at the appropriate level. Requires U.S. Citizenship. Must also be able to satisfy federal government requirements for access to government information, and having dual citizenship may preclude you from being able to meet this requirement.

Benefits at Firehawk Aerospace
At Firehawk, we are committed to supporting the well-being of our employees and their families. Our comprehensive benefits package is designed to provide peace of mind and help you thrive both personally and professionally.
Health Coverage: We offer 100% employer-paid medical premiums for employees and up to 75% coverage for dependents under select plans, with additional options for PPO and HDHP plans. Coverage begins the first of the month following your hire date.
Dental and Vision Plans: Affordable dental and vision plans with extensive coverage options, including preventive care, orthodontics, and allowances for contacts and frames.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Access to free, confidential services, including counseling, legal consultations, wellness coaching, and virtual concierge services to support your work-life balance.
Flexible Work Schedule: Enjoy a 9/80 schedule option, allowing for greater flexibility and work-life balance.
On-Site Perks: Complimentary snacks and refreshments to keep you energized throughout the day.
Professional Growth: Mentorship opportunities with industry-leading engineers and engagement in cutting-edge projects at the forefront of aerospace innovation.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement:
Firehawk is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Firehawk is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.