Aerospace & Defense Contract Operations Specialist

The Aerospace & Defense Contract Operations Specialist is responsible for managing Government Direct business and supporting the broader Aerospace & Defense (A&D) vertical. This role has primary responsibility for cradle-to-grave execution of government contracts with agencies such as the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA), U.S. Navy, and other government customers.

In addition, this position supports A&D operations more broadly by assisting with compliance documentation, traceability, customer service requests, supply chain monitoring, and execution of the company’s GSA Schedule contract. The role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to coordinate across sales, procurement, quality, and operations in a regulated environment.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Manage Government Direct contracts cradle-to-grave, including DLA, Navy, and other government customers.
• Identify, evaluate, and respond to government RFQs and RFPs (e.g., DLA DIBBS, Navy portals).
• Prepare and submit compliant bids aligned with company capabilities and vendor authorizations.
• Execute awarded contracts, ensuring compliance with pricing, delivery, and documentation requirements.
• Support fulfillment and internal coordination for orders placed under the company’s GSA Schedule contract.
• Coordinate with external GSA consultants on contract updates, modifications, and compliance activities.
• Assist with development and growth of the GSA contract vehicle in collaboration with sales and leadership.
• Support A&D customers beyond Government Direct business, including prime contractors and commercial A&D accounts.
• Prepare or assist with traceability documentation, certifications, and FAI support materials.
• Provide overflow customer service support for A&D-related order updates and documentation requests.
• Monitor supply chain activity for assigned contracts and A&D business, identifying risks and delays.
• Coordinate with procurement and vendors to confirm pricing, lead times, and delivery schedules.
• Coordinate receiving, shipping, labeling, and documentation requirements for government and A&D orders.
• Work with quality resources to ensure compliance with ISO 9001, AS9100, FAR, DFARS, ITAR, and customer requirements.
• Maintain accurate records and contract data in ERP systems (TrulinX) and customer/government portals.
• Communicate proactively with internal teams and customers regarding contract status and issues.
• Identify process improvements related to contract execution and A&D operational workflows.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Strong proficiency in mathematics, statistics, and data analytical tools like spreadsheets (e.g, Excel) and database management systems for bid preparation and data analysis.
• Ability to analyze complex data sets, extracting actionable insights to inform decision-making and problem-solving for interpreting solicitations and preparing bids.
• Knowledge of quality assurance processes, regulatory compliance standards, and government contracting regulations (e.g. ITAR, FAR, DFARS, etc.).
• Familiarity with government bidding systems, such as DLA DIBBS and Navy portals.
• Ability to read, interpret, and apply information from technical documents (e.g., engineering drawings, specifications, contracts).
• Proficiency in ERP systems (e.g., TrulinX) and CRM software for data management and reporting.
• Excellent verbal and written communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills to support all internal teams, vendors, and government agencies effectively.
• Exceptional organizational skills to manage & prioritize multiple contracts, timelines, and deliverables simultaneously to meet fast-paced and strict deadlines.
• Ability to work collaboratively with, lead, and coordinate cross-functional teams across departments. 
• Be a self-starter with a proactive mindset and willingness to take initiative & ownership of various tasks, with a commitment to continuous learning and process improvement.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, or related field. Or equivalent experience.
• 3-5 years of experience in contract management, government contracting, or a related role within the aerospace and defense industry preferred.
• Experience with Government Direct contracts (DLA, Navy, or similar) strongly preferred.
• Familiarity with FAR, DFARS, ITAR, and A&D quality requirements preferred.
• Experience working in government and customer portals preferred.

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Ability to communicate effectively in person, by phone, and electronically.
• Occasional movement within office or warehouse environments as needed.
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.

Salary Range: up to $31.25/hr, or $65,000.00 annually