How much does a Contract Administrator make?
A Contract Administrator plays a key role in making sure that construction or business projects follow the legal terms set out in contracts. These professionals work hard and earn a good salary for their efforts. On average, a Contract Administrator makes about $77,745 a year. This can vary based on experience, location, and industry.
Most Contract Administrators start with an entry-level salary. As they gain more experience, their salary can grow. Here are some average salaries for those at different stages of their career:
- Entry-level: $36,000
- Entry to mid-level: $50,055
- Mid-level: $64,109
- Mid to upper-level: $78,164
- Upper-level: $92,218
- Senior-level: $106,273
- Principal-level: $120,327
- Director-level: $134,382
- Executive-level: $148,436
- Senior Executive-level: $162,491
- Director Executive-level: $176,545
- Principal Executive-level: $190,600
What are the highest paying cities for a Contract Administrator?

-
San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $119,533
In San Jose, California, contract management professionals work closely with tech companies like Apple and Intel. They ensure legal agreements align with company policies. Job seekers will find many opportunities in a thriving tech hub.
Find Contract Administrator jobs in San Jose, CA
-
Boston, MA
Average Salary: $115,010
Boston offers a robust market for contract management. Professionals here often collaborate with healthcare giants like Mass General and biotech firms like Biogen. The city’s strong economy provides numerous career paths.
Find Contract Administrator jobs in Boston, MA
-
Hartford, CT
Average Salary: $108,511
Hartford, Connecticut, is known for its insurance industry. Contract administrators here work with companies like Hartford Financial Services and Aetna. They ensure all contracts meet industry standards and state regulations.
Find Contract Administrator jobs in Hartford, CT
-
Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $102,471
Los Angeles provides a dynamic environment for those in contract management. Here, professionals support entertainment companies like Sony Pictures and NBCUniversal. The city’s diverse economy offers many opportunities.
Find Contract Administrator jobs in Los Angeles, CA
-
Syracuse, NY
Average Salary: $98,575
Syracuse, New York, offers a mix of industries for contract management. Professionals here work with companies like Syracuse University and local businesses. They ensure compliance and smooth operations.
Find Contract Administrator jobs in Syracuse, NY
-
Washington, DC
Average Salary: $98,181
In Washington, D.C., contract administrators support federal agencies and major corporations. They ensure contracts align with government regulations and company policies. Job seekers can find stable positions with strong benefits.
Find Contract Administrator jobs in Washington, DC
-
Memphis, TN
Average Salary: $97,965
Memphis, Tennessee, is a hub for logistics and entertainment. Professionals here work with companies like FedEx and local entertainment firms. They ensure that all contracts support smooth operations.
Find Contract Administrator jobs in Memphis, TN
-
Cedar Rapids, IA
Average Salary: $97,911
Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is known for its manufacturing sector. Contract administrators work with companies like Rockwell Collins and local manufacturers. They ensure all contracts support production needs.
Find Contract Administrator jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA
-
San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $97,876
San Francisco offers a unique environment for contract management. Professionals here work with tech companies like Google and Salesforce. The city’s innovative atmosphere provides many exciting opportunities.
Find Contract Administrator jobs in San Francisco, CA
-
San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $97,326
San Diego, California, offers a mix of defense, biotech, and tourism industries. Professionals work with companies like Qualcomm and local startups. They ensure all contracts meet industry standards and regulations.
Find Contract Administrator jobs in San Diego, CA
What are the best companies a Contract Administrator can work for?

-
HNTB Corporation
Average Salary: $257,054
HNTB Corporation offers Contract Administrator roles with competitive pay. They provide professional services across various sectors and locations, including the U.S. and internationally. As a Contract Administrator at HNTB, you'll manage contracts, ensuring compliance and resolving issues. They operate in many cities across the U.S.
-
Accenture
Average Salary: $190,600
Accenture is a global consulting firm offering Contract Administrator positions with a good salary. They focus on technology and consulting services. In this role, you'll handle contract lifecycle management and ensure legal compliance. Accenture operates worldwide, with major offices in cities like New York, London, and Sydney.
-
Aprio
Average Salary: $132,500
Aprio provides Contract Administrator jobs with a solid salary. This company offers accounting, finance, and consulting services. As a Contract Administrator at Aprio, you’ll manage and review contracts. They have offices in various U.S. cities, including San Francisco and Chicago.
-
General Atomics
Average Salary: $126,891
General Atomics offers Contract Administrator positions with a strong salary. They are an aerospace, defense, and security company. In this role, you’ll oversee contracts and ensure compliance with regulations. General Atomics operates from locations like San Diego and San Marcos, California.
-
The Cigna Group
Average Salary: $122,655
The Cigna Group provides Contract Administrator jobs with a good salary. They are a global health service company. As a Contract Administrator at Cigna, you’ll manage health insurance contracts and ensure terms are met. They have offices in major cities like Bloomfield, Connecticut, and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
-
Parsons
Average Salary: $118,983
Parsons offers Contract Administrator positions with a solid salary. They provide services in infrastructure and technology. In this role, you’ll handle contract agreements and negotiate terms. Parsons operates in many locations, including Washington, D.C., and Los Angeles, California.
-
BAE Systems USA
Average Salary: $108,766
BAE Systems USA provides Contract Administrator jobs with a competitive salary. They focus on defense and aerospace. As a Contract Administrator at BAE Systems USA, you’ll manage contract agreements and ensure compliance. They have offices in many U.S. cities, including Arlington, Virginia, and San Diego, California.
-
Bechtel
Average Salary: $107,000
Bechtel offers Contract Administrator roles with a good salary. They provide engineering and construction services. In this role, you’ll oversee contract terms and manage project agreements. Bechtel operates in various locations, including San Francisco, California, and Reston, Virginia.
-
Northrop Grumman
Average Salary: $103,382
Northrop Grumman offers Contract Administrator positions with a solid salary. They focus on aerospace and defense. As a Contract Administrator at Northrop Grumman, you’ll manage contracts and ensure compliance. They operate in many U.S. cities, including Falls Church, Virginia, and Redondo Beach, California.
-
System One
Average Salary: $102,698
System One provides Contract Administrator jobs with a good salary. They offer consulting and staffing services. In this role, you’ll handle contract management and ensure compliance. System One operates in various locations, including Washington, D.C., and Dallas, Texas.
How to earn more as a Contract Administrator?
Increasing your earnings as a Contract Administrator can lead to greater job satisfaction and financial security. Focusing on certain key factors can significantly boost your income potential. Building experience is one of the most important steps. The more contracts you manage, the more valuable your expertise becomes. Gaining experience in various industries can also open up new opportunities for higher-paying jobs.
Another effective factor is obtaining additional certifications. Certifications in project management or specific contract laws can make a Contract Administrator more attractive to employers. These credentials show a commitment to professional development and can justify a higher salary. Networking with other professionals in the field also plays a critical role. Attending industry events, joining professional groups, and connecting with peers can lead to learning about higher-paying positions and getting referrals. Seeking out leadership roles within projects can also lead to increased compensation. Taking on roles such as a Lead Contract Administrator or Contract Manager can result in higher salaries. Finally, negotiating effectively is essential. Understanding market rates and being prepared to discuss your value can lead to better offers.
Here are some factors to consider:
- Gain experience in various industries.
- Obtain relevant certifications.
- Network with industry professionals.
- Seek leadership roles within projects.
- Negotiate salaries effectively.



