Sr. Analyst, Contracts

The Senior Contracts Analyst manages and administers the full contract life cycle, from solicitation through contract close-out. Responsibilities include solicitation review, proposal preparation and submission, negotiation with government customers, and post-award administration. The Senior Contracts Analyst will interface directly with the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) and other customers to achieve business objectives and advance customer satisfaction.

This position is based at our Corporate Headquarters in Wood Dale, IL, with a planned relocation to the Merchandise Mart (Chicago) in early 2027.

What you need to be successful in the role:

• Independently analyze and respond to solicitations and contract awards for products issued through DLA’s Internet Bid Board System (DIBBS) and other procurement platforms
• Lead negotiation on price/cost analysis, commercial item determinations, and contract exceptions with the Government customer.
• Respond to and independently resolve customer issues and concerns.
• Manage workflow and contracts within AAR’s ERP system (IFS).
• Prepare and administer routine correspondence, negotiation memoranda, and contract documentation to ensure timely and coordinated submission.
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with internal teams and external customers.
• Identify, communicate, and escalate risks and opportunities to business leadership.
• Ensure compliance with federal regulations and internal company standards.
• Maintain organized contract records and files documenting contract performance and compliance.
• Serve as a focal point for communication with cross-functional teams.
• Identify and implement opportunities for process improvement.
• Provide training and guidance to members of the contracts team and broader business division.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

What you need to be successful in this role: 

• Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) or Bachelor of Science (B.S.) from a four-year college or university, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Prior experience with commercial or non-Department of Defense (non-DoD) contracting environments preferred.
• Experience working in compliance, regulatory, audit, or governance-related functions.
• Prior experience supporting state, municipal, civic, or corporate organizations.
• Demonstrated customer service orientation with strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including the ability to create professional PowerPoint presentations, develop and analyze PivotTables in Excel, and prepare business documents and reports.
• 3–5 years of experience in federal contract administration (experience as a Prime Contractor or Contracting Officer preferred).
• Demonstrated experience managing T, U, Q, and R type solicitations and contracts.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
• Experience managing contracts within an ERP system (IFS experience a plus).
• Proven experience leading negotiations on Commercial Item Determinations, pricing/cost analysis, and compliance with federal regulations.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, with the ability to interface effectively with all levels of employees and management.
• Consistent experience in proposal preparation, contract review, and negotiation
• Knowledge of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS), and other regulations relevant to federal contracting. - Preferred 
• Understandi