Principal Contract Specialist- Federal

Overview

Are you a seasoned federal contracting professional ready to lead and inspire? Join Esri`s Professional Services division as a Principal Contract Specialist and take charge of high-impact federal contracts that support our mission to deliver transformative geospatial solutions. In this role, you`ll not only manage complex agreements governed by FAR/DFAR, but also serve as a mentor and strategic advisor- guiding teams, shaping policy, and elevating contract management practices across the organization.

You will be joining a team of experienced professionals who enjoy working together to support Esri`s large customer base and internal customer requests. We love what we do, and we love Esri`s philosophy. You will have a management team and colleagues who are here to support you. Technology is always changing, and our customers are finding new ways to utilize geospatial software to improve the world so our assignments are varied, challenging and fascinating.

Esri has a Relocation Assistance Program and can provide support with relocating to the Vienna, VA area for this position.

Responsibilities

• Lead the full lifecycle of complex federal contracts, including RFP analysis, proposal development, negotiation, execution, and closeout
• Serve as a senior authority on FAR/DFAR compliance, providing expert guidance to internal stakeholders and ensuring alignment with federal acquisition regulations
• Drive strategic contracting decisions that balance regulatory requirements with Esri`s business goals
• Act as a trusted advisor to leadership, offering insights on risk mitigation, pricing strategies, and contract structuring
• Mentor and coach junior and mid-level contract professionals, fostering a culture of continuous learning and excellence
• Collaborate cross-functionally with legal, finance, and project teams to resolve complex contractual issues and support program success
• Represent Esri in discussions with federal agencies, prime contractors, and oversight bodies such as DCMA, DCAA, SBA and DSS

Requirements

• 8+ years of progressively complex contract administration experience, with a strong emphasis on federal contracting
• Demonstrated success in negotiating and managing contracts with U.S. government entities and prime contractors
• Deep understanding of FAR/DFAR, GSA contracting, and federal procurement processes
• Proven leadership and mentoring experience within a contracts or legal team
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to influence and collaborate across teams
• Visa sponsorship is not available for this posting. Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the US
• Bachelor’s in Business Administration, Legal Studies, Political Science, or related field

Recommended Qualifications

• Familiarity with professional services contract terms, cloud computing terms, software licensing terms, software product development activities intellectual property protection, and subcontracting
• Master's in Business Administration, Legal Studies, Political Science, or related field

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About Esri

At Esri, diversity is more than just a word on a map. When employees of different experiences, perspectives, backgrounds, and cultures come together, we are more innovative and ultimately a better place to work. We believe in having a diverse workforce that is unified under our mission of creating positive global change. We understand that diversity, equity, and inclusion is not a destination but an ongoing process. We are committed to the continuation of learning, growing, and changing our workplace so every employee can contribute to their life’s best work. Our commitment to these principles extends to the global communities we serve by creating positive change with GIS technology. For more information on Esri’s Racial Equity and Social Justice initiatives, please visit our website here.

If you don’t meet all of the preferred qualifications for this position, we encourage you to still apply!

Esri is an equal opportunity employer (EOE) and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. If you need reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please email askcareers@esri.com and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Please note that only those inquiries concerning a request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to from this e-mail address.

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