Who We Are OpenTeams is a fun-loving gaggle of over-achievers pioneering the AI revolution by providing AI and machine learning as open source products to the world's top enterprises. We empower enterprises with fully customizable AI solutions while ensuring ownership of proprietary data, codebases and insights. At OpenTeams, we deliver all the traditional services of a SaaS company-installation, customization, support, and ongoing improvements-while staying true to the open source ethos. We value freedom, trust, teamwork, accountability, quality, and limitless human potential. We dedicate 3% of our profits to the open source community. If you value David vs Goliath situations, we're the place for you. Role Overview OpenTeams is seeking a Manager, Defense Contracting to lead and manage all aspects of contract execution with the U.S. Department of Defense. This is a mission-critical role for a detail-oriented and proactive former warranted DoD contracting officer, who understands the federal acquisition landscape, has deep working knowledge of FAR/DFARS, and can help guide innovative open-source AI solutions through the complex world of defense acquisition. The ideal candidate will coordinate closely with our internal teams-including general managers, open source solution architects, and software development teams-to prepare compliant proposals, navigate pre-award and post-award contracting processes, and ensure successful execution and delivery of DoD contracts. Key Responsibilities * Serve as the lead for all DoD contracting activities at OpenTeams, including proposal development, pricing strategy, contract compliance, and execution. * Work closely with OpenTeams' general managers to develop pricing and delivery schedules aligned with program requirements. * Partner with technical teams (solution architects and developers) to translate requirements into accurate and compliant Statements of Work (SOWs), Technical Volumes, and Cost Proposals. * Manage and track the lifecycle of all DoD contracts and task orders-from initial RFP analysis through proposal submission, award, and execution. * Provide expert guidance on acquisition pathways including SBIR/STTR, OTA, BAAs, and IDIQ contracts. * Maintain up-to-date understanding of changes to federal acquisition rules and how they impact OpenTeams' contract posture. * Interface with contracting officers, CORs, and DoD program managers as needed to facilitate smooth contract negotiation and execution. * Support internal compliance with cybersecurity (CMMC), export control (ITAR/EAR), and facility clearance requirements in coordination with our security team. Required Qualifications * Former warranted contracting officer within the U.S. Department of Defense (or equivalent acquisition authority). * 8+ years of experience in federal acquisition, including a deep understanding of the FAR, DFARS, and DoD procurement processes. * Proven ability to prepare, negotiate, and manage DoD contracts end-to-end. * Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate across technical and non-technical stakeholders. * Demonstrated experience coordinating with technical teams to align contract deliverables and performance with operational realities. * Ability to thrive in a high-growth, fast-moving startup environment while maintaining compliance and professionalism in federal interactions. Preferred Qualifications * Experience with SBIR/STTR, OTAs, or non-traditional acquisition pathways. * Familiarity with open-source software, AI/ML technologies, or cloud-based infrastructure (AWS GovCloud, Azure IL5/6, etc.). * Active or prior security clearance preferred. * PMP or DAWIA certification is a plus. Grow With Us AI is transforming industries at an unprecedented pace, and we're leading the charge with open source innovation. At OpenTeams, you won't just be another cog in the machine-you'll be part of a passionate, remote-first team pioneering the future of AI. We believe in building AI differently: with transparency, collaboration, and a commitment to empowering businesses with complete control over their data, code, and insights. Our team thrives on solving real-world challenges, crafting ethical AI, and contributing to the open source projects driving the AI revolution. Join us in shaping the future of AI.