How much does a Contract Specialist make?
A Contract Specialist plays a key role in managing agreements between companies and clients. This job often involves reviewing, negotiating, and finalizing contracts. The average yearly salary for a Contract Specialist is around $82,662. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the specific industry.
Contract Specialists can earn different amounts depending on their level of experience. Entry-level specialists might start at around $39,950 per year. As they gain more experience, their salary can increase. Those with several years of experience might earn between $72,774 and $83,716 annually. Top earners in this field can make over $127,000 per year. The highest earners often have advanced degrees or specialized skills.
What are the highest paying cities for a Contract Specialist?

-
Colorado Springs, CO
Average Salary: $124,416
In Colorado Springs, professionals manage contracts for various industries. Companies like Lockheed Martin and UCHealth offer many opportunities. The city's growing tech sector adds to the demand for skilled specialists.
Find Contract Specialist jobs in Colorado Springs, CO
-
Washington, DC
Average Salary: $107,370
Working in Washington, DC, involves handling contracts for government agencies and large corporations. Firms like Deloitte and the U.S. Department of Defense provide diverse roles. The city's political environment offers unique contract opportunities.
Find Contract Specialist jobs in Washington, DC
-
San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $107,237
In San Francisco, specialists work with tech giants like Google and Salesforce. The city's innovative environment demands skilled contract management. Professionals here enjoy a dynamic and fast-paced work setting.
Find Contract Specialist jobs in San Francisco, CA
-
Hartford, CT
Average Salary: $102,210
Hartford offers a mix of insurance and healthcare contract roles. Companies such as Aetna and Travelers provide stable opportunities. The city's strong financial sector supports a steady demand for contract specialists.
Find Contract Specialist jobs in Hartford, CT
-
Cleveland, OH
Average Salary: $101,551
In Cleveland, professionals manage contracts for industries like manufacturing and healthcare. Companies like Cleveland Clinic and Sherwin-Williams offer diverse roles. The city's economic growth creates many job opportunities.
Find Contract Specialist jobs in Cleveland, OH
-
Fresno, CA
Average Salary: $101,515
Fresno provides opportunities in agriculture and healthcare. Firms like Valley Children's Healthcare and various agricultural companies need skilled specialists. The city's diverse economy offers a range of contract management roles.
Find Contract Specialist jobs in Fresno, CA
-
Des Moines, IA
Average Salary: $100,442
Des Moines offers roles in insurance and finance. Companies like Principal Financial Group and Wells Fargo provide many opportunities. The city's strong financial sector supports a steady demand for contract specialists.
Find Contract Specialist jobs in Des Moines, IA
-
Boulder, CO
Average Salary: $100,355
In Boulder, specialists work with tech companies and research institutions. Firms like Google and the University of Colorado offer dynamic roles. The city's innovative environment provides many contract management opportunities.
Find Contract Specialist jobs in Boulder, CO
-
Grand Rapids, MI
Average Salary: $99,401
Grand Rapids offers roles in manufacturing and healthcare. Companies like Amway and Spectrum Health provide diverse opportunities. The city's strong industrial sector supports a steady demand for contract specialists.
Find Contract Specialist jobs in Grand Rapids, MI
-
Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $97,312
In Seattle, professionals manage contracts for tech companies and healthcare providers. Firms like Amazon and Kaiser Permanente offer many roles. The city's tech-driven economy creates a high demand for skilled specialists.
Find Contract Specialist jobs in Seattle, WA
What are the best companies a Contract Specialist can work for?

-
KPMG
Average Salary: $167,396
KPMG offers Contract Specialist jobs with a focus on managing contracts for various industries. KPMG operates globally, with offices in major cities worldwide.
-
U.S. Defense Intelligence Agency
Average Salary: $143,483
The U.S. Defense Intelligence Agency provides Contract Specialist roles that involve overseeing contracts for defense projects. This agency operates nationwide, with key locations in Virginia and Colorado.
-
Piper Companies
Average Salary: $137,661
Piper Companies offers Contract Specialist jobs with a focus on managing contracts for construction and engineering projects. They operate in several states, including California, Texas, and Florida.
-
Northrop Grumman
Average Salary: $131,512
Northrop Grumman provides Contract Specialist roles that involve managing defense and aerospace contracts. They have locations in Virginia, California, and Arizona.
-
Deloitte
Average Salary: $124,897
Deloitte offers Contract Specialist jobs with a focus on managing contracts for various industries. They operate globally, with offices in major cities worldwide.
-
Esri
Average Salary: $120,868
Esri offers Contract Specialist roles that involve managing contracts for geographic information systems. They operate in several states, including California, Colorado, and Virginia.
-
Raytheon
Average Salary: $117,818
Raytheon provides Contract Specialist jobs with a focus on managing defense and aerospace contracts. They have locations in Virginia, California, and Arizona.
-
Chenega Corporation
Average Salary: $116,704
Chenega Corporation offers Contract Specialist roles that involve managing contracts for government projects. They operate in several states, including Virginia, California, and Texas.
-
BAE Systems USA
Average Salary: $115,279
BAE Systems USA provides Contract Specialist jobs with a focus on managing defense and aerospace contracts. They have locations in Virginia, California, and Texas.
-
U.S. Coast Guard
Average Salary: $113,577
The U.S. Coast Guard offers Contract Specialist roles that involve managing contracts for maritime operations. They operate nationwide, with key locations in Virginia, California, and Florida.
How to earn more as a Contract Specialist?
A Contract Specialist can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. Building a strong foundation of skills and experience is essential. Specialization in certain industries, such as healthcare or technology, can lead to higher-paying opportunities. Networking with other professionals in the field can open doors to better job offers. Continuous education and certifications can also enhance a Contract Specialist's value in the job market. Lastly, negotiating salary and benefits effectively can lead to higher pay.
To maximize earnings, a Contract Specialist should consider the following factors:
- Skill Development: Invest time in learning new skills and improving existing ones. This includes mastering contract management software and understanding legal terminology.
- Industry Specialization: Focus on a specific industry to become an expert. This can make a Contract Specialist more valuable to employers in that field.
- Networking: Attend industry events and join professional organizations. Building relationships can lead to job opportunities and salary negotiations.
- Certifications: Obtain relevant certifications, such as Certified Professional Contract Manager (CPCM). These credentials can boost credibility and earning potential.
- Salary Negotiation: Research market rates and be prepared to negotiate. Highlighting past successes and contributions can strengthen a Contract Specialist's position in salary discussions.