Contracts Manager Jobs in California
Contracts Manager jobs in California are among the most active in the country, concentrated in defense and aerospace, technology, construction, healthcare, and state and local government contracting across seniority levels from entry-level contracts administrator through senior contracts manager and director. Los Angeles, San Diego, and the San Francisco Bay Area account for the largest share of openings, with major employers such as Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin, and Kaiser Permanente maintaining deep contracts management functions across the state. The most in-demand specialties are government and federal contracts, construction contracts, and technology and software licensing agreements. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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Description
The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) is seeking a skilled and collaborative leader to fill the position of Department Manager of Procurement and Contracts. The Department Manager will be an experienced, hands-on professional focused on introducing and supporting best practices in procurement and contracting, providing high-level technical assistance, and supporting the Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) implementation project currently underway.
Under general direction of the Chief Financial Officer, the Department Manager of Procurement and Contracts will assume full managerial responsibility for the Contracts Department, consisting of 10 full-time employees. This position is responsible for planning, coordinating, and directing SCAG’s procurement and contract processes, including bid package preparation, contract negotiations, purchasing activities, and negotiating contract terms and conditions. The Department Manager will ensure organizational compliance with applicable grant, federal, state, and agency requirements, including the Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (2 CFR Part 200), the California Public Contract Code, Caltrans Local Assistance Procedures Manual (LAPM), and SCAG’s Procurement Policy and Procedures Manual. The Department Manager of Contracts will also advise and recommend best practices and collaborate with leadership and staff to streamline procurement and contracting processes.
The Contracts Department supports SCAG programs by procuring professional services, goods, and other resources necessary to implement regional planning initiatives and agency operations. The department oversees procurement and contracting activities throughout the contract lifecycle and works closely with departments, project managers, consultants, and vendors to ensure procurements are competitive, compliant, timely, and aligned with agency needs.
WHO WE ARE
As a mission-driven organization, SCAG is committed to attracting and retaining talent who embody SCAG’s values. SCAG's workforce is passionate and committed to innovation that improves the quality of life for all Southern Californians. When you join SCAG, you can expect a culture where collaboration and teamwork is fostered.
As part of our Work@SCAG policy, employees are eligible for two work models: in-office and hybrid. Eligibility for these models will depend on the department, position, responsibilities, and duties, as determined by management. All work models require employees to be based within the SCAG region. This position is expected to follow the hybrid model and be in the office 2 days per week.
WHAT WE BELIEVE
MISSION
To foster innovative regional solutions that improve the lives of Southern Californians through inclusive collaboration, visionary planning, regional advocacy, information sharing, and promoting best practices.
VISION
Southern California's Catalyst for a Brighter Future.
SCAG CORE VALUES
In this role you can expect to
- Oversee contract compliance, purchasing programs, administrative support functions, and specialized departmental programs.
- Manage the development and administration of the department and division’s annual budget and forecast resources needed for staffing, consultants, and other operational needs.
- Plan, direct, and review the department’s work plan, including workflows, work products, priorities, and staffing.
- Collaborate with and advise SCAG executive management on the development and coordination of programs, policies, and workforce strategies.
- Provide technical expertise, guidance, and training on procurement and contracting matters to divisions across the agency.
- Support SCAG’s ERP system implementation by providing procurement and contracting expertise, recommending best practices, supporting process improvements, and overseeing data cleanup and migration activities.
- Lead special projects and conduct research, budget analyses, and feasibility studies to evaluate new contracting programs and services and provide recommendations.
- Evaluate service delivery methods and procedures, identify opportunities for improvement, recommend solutions to the Chief Financial Officer, and lead implementation of approved improvements.
- Communicate with federal and state administrators, contractors, subregions, and vendors to address and resolve issues affecting SCAG.
- Collaborate with divisions to understand business needs, develop scopes of work and specifications, negotiate contracts, and monitor contractual performance.
- Oversee the contract lifecycle, including award, negotiation, execution, administration, amendments, cost and price analyses, file management, and contract close-out activities.
- Participate in committees, task forces, and professional groups and remain current on emerging trends, regulations, and innovations in public procurement and contracting.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
What you'll bring to this role
A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be with 7 years of experience in government contracts and procurement, 4 years of management or direct supervisory experience, and a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
Any combination of training, education, and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may also be considered.
We’ll be a great match if you also have:
- Demonstrated success leading high-performing teams and fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
- The ability to identify opportunities for improvement and implement procedures to streamline processes.
- Experience effectively delegating, distributing, and monitoring workloads and performance.
- The ability to establish and maintain trusting and collaborative working relationships with management and staff.
- Demonstrated ability to set clear goals, communicate expectations, and ensure successful completion of projects and deliverables.
- Strong communication skills, with the ability to translate complex technical information clearly and effectively for staff and stakeholders at all levels.
- Ability to identify and proactively respond to issues to resolve challenges.
- A confident and engaging leadership style, with strong interpersonal skills and a passion for identifying and implementing best practices.
- Strong knowledge of public-sector procurement and contracting practices, including applicable federal and state requirements.
- Experience leading organizational change initiatives, including process improvements, systems implementations, and business transformation efforts.
- Commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and customer-focused service delivery.
Supplemental Information
Please note, this posting will remain open until October 5, 2026 with the first application review taking place on September 21, 2026. Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to apply prior to that date. We anticipate interviews for this position will be held in five weeks.
The information you provide on the application and supplemental questionnaire will be evaluated and used to determine your eligibility to participate in the next phase of the hiring process. Please be advised that failure to provide complete and accurate information in the application and supplemental questionnaire may result in disqualification of your application even if you possess the qualifying experience or education. Please be as specific as possible and include all information as requested. Comments such as "see resume or application" will not be considered as a sufficient response. Please note that all information is subject to verification at any time in the hiring process. Falsification of any information may result in disqualification or dismissal.
Southern California Association of Governments is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, physical disability, mental disability, mental condition, genetic information, marital status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, sexual orientation, military and veteran status, or any other basis protected by law.
The provisions of this job announcement do not constitute a contract, expressed or implied, and any provision contained in this job announcement may be modified or revoked without notice.
Insurance Coverage
Employees may choose from nine HMO and two PPO health plans administered through CalPERS. SCAG contributes the following amounts towards the monthly health premium: $850 for employee only coverage; $1500 for employee plus one dependent; $1800 for employee plus family. Employees may waive SCAG-sponsored health plans by providing evidence of other health coverage each plan year. Upon meeting eligibility requirements, employee is eligible to receive opt out amount of $200 per month, paid as taxable earnings. Premiums for dental and vision are covered 100% by SCAG. Life insurance in the amount of $150,000 is provided by SCAG. Supplemental life insurance is available at a minimal cost to the employee. Short-term and long-term disability insurance plans are provided by SCAG.
Retirement
Employees become members of the Public Employees’ Retirement System (PERS). Effective January 1, 2013, for new members of the California Public Employees’ Retirement System (CalPERS), the retirement formula is calculated at 2% @ 62 with a Three Year Average Formula. In accordance with the Public Employees' Pension Reform Act of 2013 (PEPRA), the new member will have a mandatory contribution of 7% of reportable compensation. Employees who are current members of CalPERS or an agency with CalPERS reciprocity, or who have less than a six-month break in service between employment with SCAG or in a CalPERS (or reciprocal) agency will be enrolled in the 2% @ 55 benefit formula.
Empower deferred compensation plan is available and all non-management positions receive a 50% match, up to $1,500. Employees do not pay Social Security.
Paid Parental Leave
12 weeks of paid parental leave to employees following the birth of an employee’s child or the placement of a child with an employee in connection with adoption or foster care. Employees become eligible for this benefit after 12 months of employment at SCAG.
Holidays
Employees receive 10 designated holidays and 44 hours of Personal Floating Holidays (PFH) per fiscal year, 11 hours for each full quarter worked.
Vacation Accrual
Ten to twenty days per year depending on length of service with SCAG.
0-3 years: 80 hours
4-10 years: 120 hours
11-16 years: 140 hours
17+ years: 160 hours
Sick Leave
Employees accrue sick leave at the rate of one day per month.
Flexible Spending Accounts
Tax-exempt savings plans are offered to pay for eligible expenses associated with healthcare, dependent care, and parking.
Transit Reimbursement Program
SCAG reimburses up to $230 per month for commute to the office via public transit via bus, rail, or train. Employees must commute a minimum of 8 days per month in order to receive reimbursement for monthly passes.
Flexible Time/Modified Work Week/Telework
Employees may work a modified 9-80 work schedule, with every other Friday off. SCAG offers a flexible work schedule to allow employees some flexibility on daily work hours. SCAG has developed a hybrid workforce program called Work@SCAG to provide two work model options (office and hybrid) to choose from, based on their position, within the SCAG Region.
Technology Allowance
Employees in hybrid and remote work models will receive a one-time stipend of $300 to be used for remote office setup. In addition, all employees receive a $140 monthly technology allowance to cover phone usage for business use and to offset utilities costs while working remotely.
Other Benefits
Educational assistance up to $5,250 per year is offered for qualified courses after one year of employment. Professional membership reimbursement up to $300 per year for professional associations.
Description
The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) is seeking a skilled and collaborative leader to fill the position of Department Manager of Procurement and Contracts. The Department Manager will be an experienced, hands-on professional focused on introducing and supporting best practices in procurement and contracting, providing high-level technical assistance, and supporting the Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) implementation project currently underway.
Under general direction of the Chief Financial Officer, the Department Manager of Procurement and Contracts will assume full managerial responsibility for the Contracts Department, consisting of 10 full-time employees. This position is responsible for planning, coordinating, and directing SCAG’s procurement and contract processes, including bid package preparation, contract negotiations, purchasing activities, and negotiating contract terms and conditions. The Department Manager will ensure organizational compliance with applicable grant, federal, state, and agency requirements, including the Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (2 CFR Part 200), the California Public Contract Code, Caltrans Local Assistance Procedures Manual (LAPM), and SCAG’s Procurement Policy and Procedures Manual. The Department Manager of Contracts will also advise and recommend best practices and collaborate with leadership and staff to streamline procurement and contracting processes.
The Contracts Department supports SCAG programs by procuring professional services, goods, and other resources necessary to implement regional planning initiatives and agency operations. The department oversees procurement and contracting activities throughout the contract lifecycle and works closely with departments, project managers, consultants, and vendors to ensure procurements are competitive, compliant, timely, and aligned with agency needs.
WHO WE ARE
As a mission-driven organization, SCAG is committed to attracting and retaining talent who embody SCAG’s values. SCAG's workforce is passionate and committed to innovation that improves the quality of life for all Southern Californians. When you join SCAG, you can expect a culture where collaboration and teamwork is fostered.
As part of our Work@SCAG policy, employees are eligible for two work models: in-office and hybrid. Eligibility for these models will depend on the department, position, responsibilities, and duties, as determined by management. All work models require employees to be based within the SCAG region. This position is expected to follow the hybrid model and be in the office 2 days per week.
WHAT WE BELIEVE
MISSION
To foster innovative regional solutions that improve the lives of Southern Californians through inclusive collaboration, visionary planning, regional advocacy, information sharing, and promoting best practices.
VISION
Southern California's Catalyst for a Brighter Future.
SCAG CORE VALUES
In this role you can expect to
- Oversee contract compliance, purchasing programs, administrative support functions, and specialized departmental programs.
- Manage the development and administration of the department and division’s annual budget and forecast resources needed for staffing, consultants, and other operational needs.
- Plan, direct, and review the department’s work plan, including workflows, work products, priorities, and staffing.
- Collaborate with and advise SCAG executive management on the development and coordination of programs, policies, and workforce strategies.
- Provide technical expertise, guidance, and training on procurement and contracting matters to divisions across the agency.
- Support SCAG’s ERP system implementation by providing procurement and contracting expertise, recommending best practices, supporting process improvements, and overseeing data cleanup and migration activities.
- Lead special projects and conduct research, budget analyses, and feasibility studies to evaluate new contracting programs and services and provide recommendations.
- Evaluate service delivery methods and procedures, identify opportunities for improvement, recommend solutions to the Chief Financial Officer, and lead implementation of approved improvements.
- Communicate with federal and state administrators, contractors, subregions, and vendors to address and resolve issues affecting SCAG.
- Collaborate with divisions to understand business needs, develop scopes of work and specifications, negotiate contracts, and monitor contractual performance.
- Oversee the contract lifecycle, including award, negotiation, execution, administration, amendments, cost and price analyses, file management, and contract close-out activities.
- Participate in committees, task forces, and professional groups and remain current on emerging trends, regulations, and innovations in public procurement and contracting.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
What you'll bring to this role
A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be with 7 years of experience in government contracts and procurement, 4 years of management or direct supervisory experience, and a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
Any combination of training, education, and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may also be considered.
We’ll be a great match if you also have:
- Demonstrated success leading high-performing teams and fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
- The ability to identify opportunities for improvement and implement procedures to streamline processes.
- Experience effectively delegating, distributing, and monitoring workloads and performance.
- The ability to establish and maintain trusting and collaborative working relationships with management and staff.
- Demonstrated ability to set clear goals, communicate expectations, and ensure successful completion of projects and deliverables.
- Strong communication skills, with the ability to translate complex technical information clearly and effectively for staff and stakeholders at all levels.
- Ability to identify and proactively respond to issues to resolve challenges.
- A confident and engaging leadership style, with strong interpersonal skills and a passion for identifying and implementing best practices.
- Strong knowledge of public-sector procurement and contracting practices, including applicable federal and state requirements.
- Experience leading organizational change initiatives, including process improvements, systems implementations, and business transformation efforts.
- Commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and customer-focused service delivery.
Supplemental Information
Please note, this posting will remain open until October 5, 2026 with the first application review taking place on September 21, 2026. Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to apply prior to that date. We anticipate interviews for this position will be held in five weeks.
The information you provide on the application and supplemental questionnaire will be evaluated and used to determine your eligibility to participate in the next phase of the hiring process. Please be advised that failure to provide complete and accurate information in the application and supplemental questionnaire may result in disqualification of your application even if you possess the qualifying experience or education. Please be as specific as possible and include all information as requested. Comments such as "see resume or application" will not be considered as a sufficient response. Please note that all information is subject to verification at any time in the hiring process. Falsification of any information may result in disqualification or dismissal.
Southern California Association of Governments is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, physical disability, mental disability, mental condition, genetic information, marital status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, sexual orientation, military and veteran status, or any other basis protected by law.
The provisions of this job announcement do not constitute a contract, expressed or implied, and any provision contained in this job announcement may be modified or revoked without notice.
Insurance Coverage
Employees may choose from nine HMO and two PPO health plans administered through CalPERS. SCAG contributes the following amounts towards the monthly health premium: $850 for employee only coverage; $1500 for employee plus one dependent; $1800 for employee plus family. Employees may waive SCAG-sponsored health plans by providing evidence of other health coverage each plan year. Upon meeting eligibility requirements, employee is eligible to receive opt out amount of $200 per month, paid as taxable earnings. Premiums for dental and vision are covered 100% by SCAG. Life insurance in the amount of $150,000 is provided by SCAG. Supplemental life insurance is available at a minimal cost to the employee. Short-term and long-term disability insurance plans are provided by SCAG.
Retirement
Employees become members of the Public Employees’ Retirement System (PERS). Effective January 1, 2013, for new members of the California Public Employees’ Retirement System (CalPERS), the retirement formula is calculated at 2% @ 62 with a Three Year Average Formula. In accordance with the Public Employees' Pension Reform Act of 2013 (PEPRA), the new member will have a mandatory contribution of 7% of reportable compensation. Employees who are current members of CalPERS or an agency with CalPERS reciprocity, or who have less than a six-month break in service between employment with SCAG or in a CalPERS (or reciprocal) agency will be enrolled in the 2% @ 55 benefit formula.
Empower deferred compensation plan is available and all non-management positions receive a 50% match, up to $1,500. Employees do not pay Social Security.
Paid Parental Leave
12 weeks of paid parental leave to employees following the birth of an employee’s child or the placement of a child with an employee in connection with adoption or foster care. Employees become eligible for this benefit after 12 months of employment at SCAG.
Holidays
Employees receive 10 designated holidays and 44 hours of Personal Floating Holidays (PFH) per fiscal year, 11 hours for each full quarter worked.
Vacation Accrual
Ten to twenty days per year depending on length of service with SCAG.
0-3 years: 80 hours
4-10 years: 120 hours
11-16 years: 140 hours
17+ years: 160 hours
Sick Leave
Employees accrue sick leave at the rate of one day per month.
Flexible Spending Accounts
Tax-exempt savings plans are offered to pay for eligible expenses associated with healthcare, dependent care, and parking.
Transit Reimbursement Program
SCAG reimburses up to $230 per month for commute to the office via public transit via bus, rail, or train. Employees must commute a minimum of 8 days per month in order to receive reimbursement for monthly passes.
Flexible Time/Modified Work Week/Telework
Employees may work a modified 9-80 work schedule, with every other Friday off. SCAG offers a flexible work schedule to allow employees some flexibility on daily work hours. SCAG has developed a hybrid workforce program called Work@SCAG to provide two work model options (office and hybrid) to choose from, based on their position, within the SCAG Region.
Technology Allowance
Employees in hybrid and remote work models will receive a one-time stipend of $300 to be used for remote office setup. In addition, all employees receive a $140 monthly technology allowance to cover phone usage for business use and to offset utilities costs while working remotely.
Other Benefits
Educational assistance up to $5,250 per year is offered for qualified courses after one year of employment. Professional membership reimbursement up to $300 per year for professional associations.
See All 63 Contracts Manager Jobs in California
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Find Contracts Manager JobsContracts Manager Jobs by City in California
Where California roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Contracts Manager Job Market in California
A snapshot from current California openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Biotechnology & Pharmaceuticals
- Retail
- Cybersecurity
- Human Resources
- Technology & Software
What California Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in contracts manager jobs across California.
- Bachelor's degree in business, law, supply chain, or a related field required
- Experience with Federal Acquisition Regulation or California public contracts preferred
- Professional certification such as CPCM, CFCM, or CCCM strongly preferred by California employers
- Proficiency in contract lifecycle management software such as Ariba or Icertis required
- Demonstrated experience negotiating and administering complex commercial or government contracts
- Strong working knowledge of California commercial code and public contracting regulations
Contracts Manager Jobs in California: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a contracts manager in California?
Most contracts managers in California enter the field with a bachelor's degree in business administration, supply chain management, law, or a related discipline, then build experience in contracts coordination or administration roles. California does not require a state-issued license for most contracts manager positions, but professional certifications from the National Contract Management Association, such as the Certified Federal Contracts Manager or Certified Professional Contracts Manager designation, are widely expected by defense, aerospace, and government employers throughout the state.
Which companies hire contracts managers in California?
Employers hiring contracts managers in California right now include NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Whatnot, and Qualcomm, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of September 2026. California's concentration of defense primes, large health systems, and enterprise technology companies means demand for experienced contracts professionals is consistent across multiple industries statewide.
Which California cities have the most contracts manager jobs?
San Diego, San Francisco, and Pasadena account for the most contracts manager openings in California. Los Angeles and San Diego drive volume through their dense defense, aerospace, and government contracting ecosystems, with major facilities for companies like Northrop Grumman and Lockheed Martin, while the Bay Area generates strong demand from enterprise technology companies and large healthcare systems headquartered in the region.
Are there remote contracts manager jobs in California?
Yes, and more than many comparable roles, since contracts management is fundamentally document-driven and can be performed away from a physical site. About 63% of contracts manager openings tied to California are remote or hybrid as of September 2026, reflecting the role's suitability for distributed work. Contract review, negotiation coordination, and compliance monitoring are the functions most commonly performed fully remotely.
How can I get hired as a contracts manager in California with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is securing a contracts administrator or contracts coordinator role, which large California defense and aerospace employers such as Northrop Grumman and Raytheon regularly fill with candidates who hold a relevant bachelor's degree but lack direct contracts experience. University of California and California State University graduates often move into these roles through campus recruiting programs tied to defense and technology companies. Earning an entry-level National Contract Management Association certification and gaining exposure to Federal Acquisition Regulation fundamentals through coursework gives candidates a meaningful edge with California's large government-contractor employer base.
Where can I find and apply to contracts manager jobs in California?
You can find and apply to contracts manager jobs in California on Migrate Mate, which lists current California openings across industries including defense, technology, healthcare, and construction. Find roles that match your experience and apply directly to each one.
See All 63 Contracts Manager Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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