Director of Legal, Government Contracts
The Director of Legal, Government Contracts at SpaceX is a pivotal role responsible for leading a team of seasoned government contract professionals and independently managing some of the company's most critical government contracts. This position ensures compliance with applicable laws and regulations, mitigating risks associated with government engagements. The role encompasses the full lifecycle of government contracts, including proposal development, negotiations, and adherence to FAR, DFAR, and other relevant statutes and regulations.
Key responsibilities include supporting SpaceX's relationships with government customers by building and maintaining relationships with government stakeholders, industry partners, and internal teams. The director will lead a team of government contract professionals, fostering a culture of excellence, accountability, and continuous improvement. Managing SpaceX's contracts, including prime contracts and subcontracts with government agencies such as NASA, DoD, FAA, and others, is a central aspect of the role. The director will oversee the contract proposal process, including bid preparation, cost/pricing analysis, and risk assessments to maximize win rates. Additionally, the role involves managing contract performance, modifications, disputes, complex legal issues, and audits, serving as the primary point of contact for government contracting officers and auditors. Monitoring changes in federal laws, regulations, and government policies, advising senior company leadership on potential impacts, and recommending proactive measures are also key duties. Preparing reports and metrics on contract performance, compliance status, and key risks for executive review is essential.
The ideal candidate will possess a Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school and have over 10 years of experience in managing government contracts from cradle to grave, as well as serving as legal counsel on government contracting issues. A minimum of 5 years in a people leadership role is required. Experience managing complex federal contracts in regulated industries such as aerospace, defense, or technology is essential. Experience with classified contracts and security clearances is also necessary. Preferred qualifications include certification in government contracting (CPCM, CFCM), extensive knowledge of government contracts and contract types, the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation (DFAR), NASA FAR Supplement (NFS), and Other Transaction Agreements (OTAs). Strong negotiation, analytical, and problem-solving skills with the ability to handle fast, high-pressure situations are important. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, the ability to influence and collaborate at all levels, and demonstrated leadership in building and mentoring high-performing teams are also desired. High ethical standards, attention to detail, and a commitment to compliance excellence are crucial.
Compensation for this role includes a base salary ranging from $275,000 to $340,000, determined on a case-by-case basis considering job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience. In addition to the base salary, the total rewards package may include long-term incentives, such as company stock or long-term cash awards, discretionary bonuses, and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. Comprehensive benefits include medical, vision, and dental coverage, a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. Employees may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation annually.
SpaceX is a dynamic and innovative company committed to revolutionizing space transportation with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars. The company fosters a culture of excellence, accountability, and continuous improvement, providing opportunities for professional growth and development. Joining SpaceX offers the chance to be part of a mission-driven organization at the forefront of aerospace technology, contributing to groundbreaking projects that have a global impact.