Sr Principal Contract Administrator – Secret

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work — and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

Put your skills to the test by pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. From global defense to sustainment and modernization to mission readiness, your experience and ability will make it a reality. Our programs are built on equal parts of curiosity and collaboration. Our combined effort means our customers can connect and defend millions of people around the world. With Northrop Grumman, you’ll have the opportunity to be an essential part of projects that will define your career, now and in the future.

The Northrop Grumman Global Sustainment & Modernization Division of Northrop Grumman Defense Systems is looking for a Principal Contract Administrator to join our Special Programs Logistics & Operations Operating Unit in Palmdale, CA. 

This position will require excellent oral and written communication skills and will represent the organization as a focal point on contracts or projects. Will interaction with senior internal and external personnel on significant matters often requiring coordination between organizations and may develop and deliver presentations.

Candidate will be considered an expert in the field within the organization and must demonstrate the skill and ability to perform complex tasks.  As most assignments are complex, the position will require the candidate to work independently without appreciable direction.

Responsibilities:

• Administer, extend, negotiate and terminate standard and nonstandard contracts.

• Provide advice to management of contractual rights and obligations, compile and analyze data, and maintain historical information as well as be self-motivated.

• Have the ability to handle urgent situations from Northrop Grumman leadership and U.S. Government officials.

• Participate in proposal preparation (review, analysis, interpretation & contractual advice on terms & conditions), contract negotiations, contract administration, review and approval of contractual documentation to protect the company and provide for proper contract acquisition in accordance with the terms and conditions of the contract.

• Provide contractual advice in accordance with company policies and procedures, and interface with both internal and external customers to ensure proper contract execution. 

• Serve as consultant to management and special external spokesperson for the organization on major matters pertaining to its policies, plans, and objectives. Acts as an advisor to senior management and customers.

• Ensures timely and compliant deliverables for all contracts assigned.

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree and at least 6 years relevant experience in U.S. Government contract administration and management or Masters Degree with 4 years relevant experience. In leiu of formal degree, High School Diploma or equivalent (GED) and at least 10 years of relevant experience.

• Must be able to effectively work with the management of other organizations (program management, subcontracts, business management, and supply chain management) as well as representatives of Government agencies.

• Must have a demonstrated understanding of and experience with FAR and DFARS, especially with FAR Part 12 and FAR Part 15.  Experience with various contract types such as Time & Material, Cost types, Firm Fixed Price, etc.

• Must have capable & effective proposal development skills, excellent negotiation skills, and excellent oral and written communication skills.

• Must possess excellent decision-making skills that support resolution of complex problems while minimizing risk to the Corporation.

• Must have an active U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) Secret security clearance with last investigation within the past 5 years with the ability to obtain a Top Secret within 365 days from submission.

• Ability to obtain Special Program Access clearance within 365 days from submission.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in U.S. Government Department of Defense contract administration & management.

• Demonstrated ability to effectively communicate with and influence others.

• Ability to work independently and make independent decisions, ensuring high levels of collaboration with stakeholders and subject matter experts.

• Ability to brief internal and external customers.

• Able to handle multiple tasks effectively in a fast-paced environment.

• Able to work as a team player, be proactive in identifying and resolving problems, have excellent organizational skills, and effective time management skills. 

• National Contract Management Association - Certified Professional Contracts Manager (CPCM) desired.

• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to be flexible and change directions when needed.

• Current Top Secret security clearance.

Salary Range: $103,900 USD - $155,900 USD

Employees may be eligible for a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.

The health and safety of our employees and their families is a top priority. The company encourages employees to remain up-to-date on their COVID-19 vaccinations. U.S. Northrop Grumman employees may be required, in the future, to be vaccinated or have an approved disability/medical or religious accommodation, pursuant to future court decisions and/or government action on the currently stayed federal contractor vaccine mandate under Executive Order 14042 https://www.saferfederalworkforce.gov/contractors/.

Northrop Grumman is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO/AA and Pay Transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for most positions.