Manager

Summary

Join OpenTeams, a leader in open-source AI, as their Manager, Defense Contracting. This mission-critical role requires a detail-oriented, proactive former DoD contracting officer with extensive knowledge of FAR/DFARS. You will lead all aspects of contract execution with the U.S. Department of Defense, working closely with internal teams to develop compliant proposals and ensure successful contract delivery. The ideal candidate will navigate pre-award and post-award processes, provide expert guidance on acquisition pathways, and maintain compliance with federal regulations. This position offers the chance to contribute to the open-source community and shape the future of AI within the defense sector. You will be part of a passionate, remote-first team dedicated to ethical AI and innovation.

Requirements

• Former warranted contracting officer within the U.S. Department of Defense (or equivalent acquisition authority)
• 8+ years of experience in federal acquisition, including a deep understanding of the FAR, DFARS, and DoD procurement processes
• Proven ability to prepare, negotiate, and manage DoD contracts end-to-end
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate across technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Demonstrated experience coordinating with technical teams to align contract deliverables and performance with operational realities
• Ability to thrive in a high-growth, fast-moving startup environment while maintaining compliance and professionalism in federal interactions

Responsibilities

• Serve as the lead for all DoD contracting activities at OpenTeams, including proposal development, pricing strategy, contract compliance, and execution
• Work closely with OpenTeams' general managers to develop pricing and delivery schedules aligned with program requirements
• Partner with technical teams (solution architects and developers) to translate requirements into accurate and compliant Statements of Work (SOWs), Technical Volumes, and Cost Proposals
• Manage and track the lifecycle of all DoD contracts and task orders—from initial RFP analysis through proposal submission, award, and execution
• Provide expert guidance on acquisition pathways including SBIR/STTR, OTA, BAAs, and IDIQ contracts
• Maintain up-to-date understanding of changes to federal acquisition rules and how they impact OpenTeams’ contract posture
• Interface with contracting officers, CORs, and DoD program managers as needed to facilitate smooth contract negotiation and execution
• Support internal compliance with cybersecurity (CMMC), export control (ITAR/EAR), and facility clearance requirements in coordination with our security team

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with SBIR/STTR, OTAs, or non-traditional acquisition pathways
• Familiarity with open-source software, AI/ML technologies, or cloud-based infrastructure (AWS GovCloud, Azure IL5/6, etc.)
• Active or prior security clearance preferred
• PMP or DAWIA certification is a plus