Contracts Specialist/Manager

QuEra is seeking a Contracts Specialist to manage the full lifecycle of federal and state agreements that enable the company’s most strategic programs, including DARPA’s Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI) and related DOE, and state co-investment projects. This position ensures that all contracting activities—from proposal through close- out—adhere to applicable acquisition regulations, cost-accounting standards, and compliance frameworks. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, experienced in government contracting, and thrives in a fast-moving environment that bridges cutting-edge R&D and structured federal programs. You will work closely with technical leadership, finance, and legal counsel to structure, negotiate, and manage contracts that advance the nation’s quantum computing capabilities.

• Manage the preparation, negotiation, and administration of government and state contracts, including OTAs, Phase III SBIRs, and FAR/DFARS-based agreements.
• Draft and review teaming agreements, NDAs, CRADAs, subcontracts, and related docu-
• Ensure contract terms are compliant with federal acquisition regulations (FAR/DFARS), export control, and cybersecurity requirements.
• Monitor contract performance to ensure deliverables, milestones, and reporting obligations are met.
• Coordinate with program management and finance to manage invoicing, cost reporting, and earned-value tracking.
• Maintain audit-ready records and documentation for all government-funded
• Support proposal development, including budget review, cost narratives, and compliance matrices.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for contracting officers, procurement specialists, and subcontractor administrators.
• Identify and mitigate contractual risks; recommend policy or procedural improvements as
• Contribute to establishing scalable templates, processes, and compliance frameworks for future programs.

• 5+ years of experience in federal contracting, agreements administration, or subcontracts management.
• Working knowledge of U.S. acquisition regulations (FAR, DFARS) and non-traditional contracting vehicles (OTAs, SBIR/STTR).
• Demonstrated ability to manage contract negotiation and lifecycle activities across multiple
• Experience supporting cost proposals, budgets, and government
• Excellent attention to detail and strong organizational
• Effective written and verbal communication with both technical and administrative

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Business Administration, Contract Management, Public Policy, or a related field.
• Experience supporting DARPA, DOE, or DoD performers or national laboratories.
• Familiarity with export control (ITAR/EAR) and data security frameworks (CUI, DFARS 7012, CMMC L2).
• Understanding of cost accounting standards and audit preparation for government-funded
• Certification from NCMA (e.g., CPCM, CFCM) or equivalent contracting

• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance when required.
• Some travel required for program reviews, audits, and partner-site
• Compensation and equity packages are competitive and commensurate with

About QuEra QuEra Computing builds the world’s leading neutral-atom quantum computers, with programs funded by DARPA, DOE, and state innovation agencies. The Contracts Specialist ensures that every agreement supporting this mission is structured with precision, executed with transparency, and compliant with the highest standards of federal acquisition.

Equal Opportunity Statement QuEra is an equal opportunity employer. We recruit, hire, and promote without regard to legally protected characteristics. Where project work requires access to controlled information or facilities, employment is contingent on the ability to obtain and maintain appropriate authorizations. All hiring complies with applicable federal and state laws.