Deputy Head of Contracts & Asset Management

Job overview

The Deputy Head of Contracts & Asset Management is an onsite role based in Washington, DC. Compensation is not specified, though the employer offers a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, education assistance, and health coverage to support its mission of solving critical defense and science challenges. This leadership position exists to partner with the Group Head in overseeing the daily operations of a 50-person team. The role focuses on driving strategic initiatives, developing talent, and ensuring compliant, high-quality execution of federal prime contracting activities.

What you'll do

• Oversee day-to-day operations of the contracting group
• partner with the Group Head on strategic direction
• coach and develop high-potential staff
• establish performance metrics
• provide expertise on FAR/DFARS and complex contract negotiations
• lead process modernization and digital tool adoption.

What we're looking for

Skills & competencies

full-time

day shift

washington dc

federal contracting

leadership

far/dfars

asset management

security clearance

defense

science

no on-call

no travel

Work arrangement

• Weekend coverage required

Benefits & perks

• Robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, comprehensive medical/dental/vision, paid time off, and disability insurance.

Why this role

Shared leadership model; focus on process modernization and AI-enabled solutions; high-impact defense and space mission support.

About the employer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) is hiring for this role. Industry: Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology). Sector: 54.