About NSTXL:

The National Security Technology Accelerator (NSTXL) harvests innovative technology from the commercial and non-defense marketplace, transforming government innovation while decreasing costs, compressing timelines, and improving outcomes. We offer a unique and simplified approach to rapidly developing, demonstrating, and assessing prototypes that address various operational and installation needs, from individual Warfighter technology to large-scale installation projects. NSTXL supports technology delivery to the Department of Defense by serving as a one-stop shop to match government requirements with innovative private-sector and academic solutions.

NSTXL is creating an ecosystem of innovators to collaborate and bring next-generation technologies to the end-user. Our OTAs have over 900 members from corporate, non-profit, educational, and financial institutions. For these members, NSTXL offers opportunities to bid on government contracts, education and training, and live/virtual forums on various topics.

Work Location: Onsite DC Metro Area

Clearance Required: Active TS/SCI

Employment Type: Full-Time (Contingent)

Job Description:

The Senior Specialist, Contracts serves as the lead contracts professional for assigned moderate-to-highly complex OT (Other Transaction) projects supporting prototyping efforts for defense applications. This role owns contract execution across the full lifecycle, from initiation through closeout, ensuring compliance, mitigating risk, and maintaining alignment with Department of War customers and project performers. The Senior Specialist partners closely with program management, finance, marketing, and other internal teams to ensure agreement obligations are met and risks are proactively managed. This role requires strong contracting expertise, sound judgment, and a practical, problem-solving approach to supporting stakeholders and resolving issues.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Contract Ownership and Lifecycle Management

Serve as the primary contracts specialist for assigned projects, overseeing all contractual activities from initiation through closeout. Manage the preparation, review, execution, and administration of agreements and supporting documentation. Ensure all contractual obligations are met across project phases, maintaining continuity and accuracy throughout the lifecycle. Maintain complete and organized contract records to support audits, reporting requirements, and internal reviews. Prepare correspondence, summaries, and presentations to support contractual actions and decision-making.

Compliance and Risk Management

Review contract terms to identify potential risks and ensure alignment with organizational policies, legal requirements, and regulatory standards. Maintain oversight of reporting, legal, and regulatory requirements tied to OT agreements. Escalate risks and compliance concerns to leadership when appropriate, with clear recommendations for resolution.

Negotiation and Issue Resolution

Lead or support negotiations for moderate-to-highly complex agreements with performers and customers. Drive alignment on contract terms while protecting organizational interests and mitigating risk. Lead troubleshooting efforts to resolve contractual issues, applying sound judgment and practical solutions. Escalate complex or sensitive matters as needed, ensuring timely resolution without disrupting project execution.

Stakeholder Engagement and Coordination

Act as the primary liaison between the organization and external stakeholders for assigned projects. Partner closely with program management, finance, marketing, and other internal teams to ensure contract alignment with project goals. Coordinate contract-related activities, communicating clearly and consistently to maintain trust and transparency across stakeholders.

Qualifications Expected for Position:

Required Education/Clearance

Bachelor’s Degree or other Degree in relevant field of study such as Business Administration. Active TS/SCI clearance

Required Experience and Abilities

Five (5) years of Department of War (DoW) contracting experience across commercial, private sector, or civil service environments. Direct experience in contract execution, procurement, or acquisition within a defense-focused portfolio.

Regulatory and Domain Expertise

Working knowledge and practical experience with Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS), and other applicable regulations. Familiarity with DoW acquisition policy related to research and development efforts and alternative contracting methods, including OT-based frameworks.

Communication and Collaboration

Demonstrated ability to lead or support contract negotiations, including resolving conflicts and aligning stakeholders on terms. Strong command of contract-related communications, documentation, and research. Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly and effectively. Ability to work collaboratively across cross-functional teams and engage effectively with internal and external stakeholders.

Analytical Thinking and Execution

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to address issues as they arise and recommend practical solutions. Ability to manage multiple, deadline-driven tasks and projects simultaneously. Ability to adapt to changing priorities, regulations, and project requirements. Proficiency with contract management systems and standard business tools, including Microsoft Office Suite.

Preferred Skills/Experience 

Direct experience with 10 U.S.C. 4022 (Other Transactions for Prototyping) and/or 10 U.S.C. 4021 (Research Projects)  NCMA (e.g., CPCM) or DAWIA certification (e.g., Level I, II, or III in Contracting) Signing authority or DoW Contracting/ Agreement Officer warrant Knowledge and understanding of the FAR Source Selection Processes and/or Commercial Supplier Selection Processes

Location:

DC Metro Area, MD, VA only as this is onsite

Travel:

Travel for this position is estimated up to ≤10%

Salary Range:

$85,000-$115,000

Equal Opportunity Employer:

NSTXL is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination and harassment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability, or genetic information.

What We Offer:

We strive to be one of the best places to work in America. We offer competitive salaries and benefits that include:

Health Insurance: Medical and dental – company pays 90% of premiums for individual coverage and for family coverage Vision Insurance: Fully covered Retirement Plans: 401(k) with employer match up to 4% Paid Time Off: Paid sick and safe leave, federal holidays, floating holiday + your birthday, and generous vacation Other: Basic Life & AD&D policy company paid Voluntary Life Flexible & remote work structure Wellness reimbursement plan & mental health support Community sponsorships Donation matching Professional development allowance

If you need any accommodation for the interview process, please let us know when we contact you.

This position is contingent upon contract award and funding. Candidates may be contacted for pre-award interviews and pipeline consideration. Employment offers will be extended once the contract is officially awarded.