Job ID: 3331684Employment Type: Full-timeRelocation Assistance Available - Yes

Senior Principal Subcontracts SpecialistLocation: Chantilly, Virginia, United States

Our Award Winning Client—recognized nationally and the recipient of multiple accolades across the defense and aerospace sectors—is seeking a Senior Principal Subcontracts Specialist to join their high-performing team in Chantilly, VA.

This is a unique opportunity to contribute to advanced national defense initiatives involving highly sensitive technologies. The successful candidate will collaborate across cross-functional teams, supporting highly technical and classified projects that push the boundaries of technological innovation.

Position Summary

In this leadership-level role, you will operate as the primary interface between internal stakeholders and external subcontractors. You will oversee the full subcontract lifecycle, from initial sourcing strategy through execution and closeout, ensuring risk is mitigated and compliance is maintained across all project activities.

Key to success in this position is your expertise in managing complex, performance-based subcontracts, as well as your ability to navigate regulatory frameworks (FAR/DFARS), contractual terms, supplier relationships, and program needs effectively.

Primary Responsibilities

• Serve as the central point of contact for subcontract-related communications across integrated program teams

• Develop comprehensive subcontract documentation, including performance-based statements of work, technical requirements, and contract flow-downs

• Interpret and apply federal, state, and local laws, including FAR and DFARS provisions, ensuring compliance with all regulatory standards

• Manage subcontractor performance with an emphasis on risk reduction, timely delivery, and technical compliance

• Partner closely with internal engineering, legal, finance, and program management teams to align subcontractor strategies with program goals

• Provide hands-on management of subcontractor budgets, risk assessments, program schedules, and earned value metrics

• Actively contribute to sourcing strategies and negotiations that drive long-term competitive advantages for the business

• Maintain awareness of supplier capacity, capability, and financial health to support strategic decision-making

• Build and strengthen long-term business relationships with subcontractors to ensure successful project execution

• Influence both internal and external stakeholders through negotiation, data-driven analysis, and strategic recommendations

Qualifications and Expertise Required

• Bachelor’s degree in a related discipline (or equivalent experience) and a minimum of 10 years of relevant experience; Master’s degree with 8+ years also considered

• Comprehensive knowledge of government contracting, with advanced understanding of FAR and DFARS

• Extensive experience with subcontract lifecycle management, from RFP to closeout

• Advanced negotiation skills with a consistent ability to develop win-win solutions

• Proven track record of handling highly technical or commodity-based procurements

• Demonstrated expertise in developing supplier strategies and managing performance risk

• Familiarity with tools and concepts such as Earned Value Management (EVM), supplier risk management, and technical review boards

• Deep understanding of contract compliance, supplier financial oversight, and procurement best practices

• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to drive decisions across cross-functional teams

• Must hold an active TS/SCI clearance

Candidate Profile

• 10–15 years of experience managing defense-related or technical subcontracts

• Holds an active TS/SCI security clearance

• Possesses exceptional leadership, delegation, and influence management abilities

• Collaborative professional who excels in matrixed team environments

• Demonstrates discretion and integrity when handling confidential or proprietary information

• Able to travel occasionally, as required by program demands

Compensation and Benefits Overview

• Relocation Assistance Provided

• Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, and life insurance

• Retirement planning options including 401(k)

• Paid time off and holiday programs

• Opportunities for continuous learning and career advancement

• Access to high-level technical projects and programs within classified domains

Job ID: 3331684

Note: Resumes will be maintained in strict confidentiality until such time as we engage in a detailed discussion regarding a specific opportunity, and both parties mutually agree to proceed. We consistently receive new opportunities every day. Should your professional background closely align with the specific requirements of our client, we will promptly reach out to you to initiate further exploration of potential opportunities.