How much does a Contract Specialist make?
Contract Specialists handle legal agreements and ensure compliance with rules and regulations. Their work is essential for businesses, and they get paid well for it. The average yearly salary for a Contract Specialist is $81,846. This number can change based on experience, education, and location.
Here are some specifics on salaries for Contract Specialists:
- 20% earn $51,124 or less.
- 50% earn between $51,124 and $84,945.
- 80% earn less than $107,492.
What are the highest paying cities for a Contract Specialist?

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Colorado Springs, CO
Average Salary: $124,725
In Colorado Springs, you will find a dynamic environment for those involved in managing contracts. Major companies in the area often need skilled individuals to handle their agreements. The tech and defense sectors here provide many opportunities for contract professionals.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $108,893
Working in Washington, DC offers a unique experience with numerous government agencies and large corporations. Your expertise in contract management is in high demand as firms navigate complex regulations and policies. The area's political landscape offers diverse contract opportunities.
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Des Moines, IA
Average Salary: $108,109
Des Moines provides a stable environment for contract management roles. The city's insurance industry is a significant employer, often requiring professionals to manage contracts effectively. The moderate cost of living makes it an attractive place to work.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $106,204
In San Francisco, contract specialists can thrive in a tech-driven economy. The presence of startups and established tech firms offers numerous opportunities. Professionals here must be adept at managing complex agreements in a fast-paced environment.
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Fresno, CA
Average Salary: $105,331
Fresno presents a more relaxed pace for contract work, with opportunities in agriculture and healthcare. The city’s lower cost of living and smaller market mean a more personalized work experience. Professionals here often enjoy a balanced lifestyle.
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Louisville, KY
Average Salary: $102,774
Louisville offers a mix of industries that require contract management. The city’s central location makes it a logistics hub, with companies in shipping and manufacturing needing skilled contract specialists. The cost of living is reasonable, providing a good quality of life.
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Cleveland, OH
Average Salary: $101,777
In Cleveland, contract specialists work in a city with a diverse economy. The healthcare and manufacturing sectors provide many opportunities. The city’s resurgence offers a vibrant community for professionals to grow their careers.
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Hartford, CT
Average Salary: $99,434
Hartford is known for its insurance companies, which need professionals to manage their contracts. The city offers a mix of urban and suburban living, providing a balanced lifestyle. Working here means being part of a historic industry with many opportunities.
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Grand Rapids, MI
Average Salary: $96,732
Grand Rapids offers a business-friendly environment with a strong manufacturing sector. Companies here often require contract specialists to ensure smooth operations. The city’s affordable cost of living and friendly community make it an appealing place to work.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $96,636
Seattle’s tech industry creates many opportunities for contract professionals. The city’s innovative spirit means managing contracts in a cutting-edge environment. Professionals here enjoy a high quality of life with plenty of recreational activities.
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What are the best companies a Contract Specialist can work for?

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KPMG
Average Salary: $170,030
KPMG offers Contract Specialist jobs with a focus on global financial services. They have offices in many locations, such as New York, London, and Sydney.
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Piper Companies
Average Salary: $139,071
At Piper Companies, Contract Specialist jobs focus on managing contracts for healthcare providers. This company operates mainly in the United States, with offices in cities like Chicago and Los Angeles.
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Northrop Grumman
Average Salary: $130,648
Northrop Grumman provides Contract Specialist jobs that involve aerospace and defense. The company has facilities across the U.S., including in Virginia, California, and Texas.
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Deloitte
Average Salary: $123,331
Deloitte offers Contract Specialist jobs with a focus on consulting and technology. They have a global presence, with offices in countries like the UK, Canada, and Australia.
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Chenega Corporation
Average Salary: $119,666
Chenega Corporation provides Contract Specialist jobs in the defense and government sectors. They operate primarily in the United States, with locations in Virginia and Maryland.
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Esri
Average Salary: $118,867
Esri offers Contract Specialist jobs that involve geographic information systems (GIS). They have offices in the U.S., including California, Colorado, and Massachusetts.
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BAE Systems USA
Average Salary: $118,318
BAE Systems USA provides Contract Specialist jobs in defense and security. The company has locations in various states, such as Virginia, Massachusetts, and California.
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U.S. Coast Guard
Average Salary: $117,284
The U.S. Coast Guard offers Contract Specialist jobs for maritime safety and security. They operate across the United States, with major offices in Washington, D.C., and Miami.
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Raytheon
Average Salary: $115,091
Raytheon provides Contract Specialist jobs in defense and intelligence. The company has facilities in several states, including Virginia, Texas, and Colorado.
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King County, WA
Average Salary: $111,939
King County, WA, offers Contract Specialist jobs focused on public services. They operate within the state of Washington, with headquarters in Seattle.
How to earn more as a Contract Specialist?
A Contract Specialist can increase their earning potential by focusing on a few key areas. By improving skills and gaining additional certifications, a specialist can stand out in the job market. Networking with other professionals also opens up opportunities for higher-paying positions.
Look for these areas to boost earnings:
- Certifications: Obtain recognized certifications. These show a higher level of expertise.
- Advanced Skills: Learn new skills, such as negotiation or project management. These can make a specialist more valuable.
- Experience: Gain experience in different industries. This makes a specialist more versatile.
- Networking: Attend industry events and connect with others. This can lead to better job opportunities.
- Specialized Focus: Specialize in a niche area, like construction or IT. This can command higher pay.



