As a Supplier and Contracts Manager, you'll manage subcontract lifecycle, overseeing supplier performance and contract execution, and collaborating cross-functionally to ensure successful mission outcomes.
At ispace U.S., we’re not just going to the Moon—we’re redefining how we get there. Our missions push the boundaries of human and robotic exploration, driven by our belief: “Expand our Planet. Expand our Future.” By providing cost-effective lunar transportation, we are pioneering a future where space is within reach for scientific discovery, commercial ventures, and sustainable exploration.
With locations in Japan, Luxembourg, and the United States, ispace is rapidly growing and leading the way in lunar exploration and development. Our U.S. branch is based in Englewood, Colorado, and focuses on high-capacity payload lunar landers designed to support future lunar missions. Our team is made up of innovators, problem-solvers, and visionaries committed to making space more accessible and fostering the next generation of space exploration.
Let’s go to the Moon together! Our team is growing, and we are actively seeking talented individuals who share our passion for space.
As a Supplier and Contracts Manager, you won’t just manage subcontracts — you’ll serve as a strategic business partner at the intersection of supplier performance, contract execution, and mission success. You’ll own the entire subcontract lifecycle, working cross-functionally with stakeholders across engineering, program management, legal, finance, quality, and supply chain. This role demands a proactive, systems-thinking mindset, with a deep understanding of contract strategy and the ability to influence internal and external stakeholders alike.
Key Responsibilities
- Serve as the primary point of contact for major subtier suppliers, overseeing full lifecycle subcontract management across diverse contract types and scopes.
- Manage contracts and subcontracts ranging from $250k-$10M.
- Draft, negotiate, execute, and manage a wide range of contract documents, ensuring compliance with internal policies and federal regulations.
- Cultivate strong vendor relationships and leverage these relationships to negotiate better terms, resolve issues quickly, and strengthen long-term supplier partnerships.
- Partner closely with Legal, Program Management, Engineering, SCM, Finance, and Quality to ensure cohesive contract strategies and seamless cross-functional alignment.
- Conduct acquisition planning, solicitations, bid evaluations, negotiations, awards, and contract administration, including modifications and terminations.
- Monitor supplier performance and contract deliverables; proactively address risks and corrective actions in coordination with Quality and SCM teams.
- Lead cost and pricing analysis to support negotiation strategies and ensure pricing reasonableness.
- Provide guidance on the interpretation and application of FAR, NASA FAR Supplement, and other applicable acquisition regulations.
- Drive process improvement initiatives related to supplier lifecycle management, contract compliance, and performance tracking.
- Travel as needed to key suppliers for performance assessments, relationship building, and on-site contract support.
Types of Contracts You'll Handle
- Master Supply Agreements (MSAs)
- Performance Work Statements (PWS)
- Consulting Agreements
- Material Transfer Agreements (MTAs)
- Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs)
- Specialized or hybrid contracts based on mission need (e.g., Fixed Price, T&M, CPFF)
Basic Qualifications
- 5+ years of experience in full lifecycle contract or subcontract management (both commercial and federal environments)
- Deep understanding of a variety of contract types (Fixed Price, T&M, Cost Reimbursable, etc.)
- Proven ability to manage vendors, build trust, and influence outcomes through strong communication and relationship building skills.
- Demonstrated success in supplier relationship management and performance tracking
- Strong contract drafting and negotiation skills
- Familiarity with FAR, NFS, and government contracting compliance
- Ability to manage complex projects independently and prioritize cross-functional demands while mitigating risks
- Proficient in the use of commercial software tools, including Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint, and Teams.
- Bachelor’s degree in a technical, legal, or business-related field
What Makes You Stand Out
- Experience in the space or aerospace industry
- Track record of driving process improvements and implementing strategic contracting practices
- Comfort working in fast-paced or startup environments with evolving priorities
- Ability to influence without authority and drive internal alignment across departments
- Innovative, pragmatic thinker who thrives in complexity and ambiguity
#LI-LH1
At ispace, we believe that diverse perspectives drive innovation. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experiences, even if you don’t meet every listed requirement. If you’re passionate about our mission and think you can contribute, we encourage you to apply. Your unique skills and experiences may be exactly what we need to grow and succeed together.
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. Learn more about the ITAR .here.
ispace is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with ispace 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.
All applicants who are offered employment with ispace US will be subject to a background investigation. Offers of employment are contingent on the successful completion of a background investigation conducted in accordance with Company policies and all applicable laws.
ispace Technologies, US, Inc. is a drug-free workplace.
ispace Technologies, US, Inc. participates in the E-Verify program.
Top Skills
Excel
Microsoft Powerpoint
Microsoft Sharepoint
Microsoft Teams
Microsoft Word
ispace Denver, Colorado, USA Office
3001 N Brighton Blvd, Denver, CO, United States, 80216
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