How much does a Contracts Manager make?
Contracts Managers handle agreements between businesses and clients. They play a crucial role in ensuring that both parties fulfill their obligations. On average, a Contracts Manager makes $118,714 per year. This is a solid income for the responsibilities they handle.
The salary for Contracts Managers can vary based on experience, location, and industry. Some earn as little as $61,950, while others can earn up to $185,000 annually. The table below shows a distribution of salaries for this profession:
- 6.22% earn $61,950 or less
- 8.30% earn between $61,950 and $73,136
- 10.37% earn between $73,136 and $84,323
- 11.21% earn between $84,323 and $95,509
- 13.93% earn between $95,509 and $106,695
- 10.23% earn between $106,695 and $117,882
- 6.42% earn between $117,882 and $129,068
- 6.62% earn between $129,068 and $140,255
- 16.20% earn between $140,255 and $151,441
- 3.71% earn between $151,441 and $162,627
- 1.78% earn $162,627 or more
What are the highest paying cities for a Contracts Manager?

-
Memphis, TN
Average Salary: $140,254
In Memphis, experienced professionals manage contracts with major companies like FedEx and National Industries for Freight Engineers. The role offers steady growth and strong benefits, making it a favorable career path. The city's business environment is dynamic, with plenty of opportunities to advance.
Find Contracts Manager jobs in Memphis, TN
-
Tucson, AZ
Average Salary: $137,224
Tucson has a growing demand for skilled contract managers who work with defense contractors and tech firms. The role here focuses on maintaining smooth operations, ensuring compliance, and negotiating terms. It's a strategic position with room for career advancement.
Find Contracts Manager jobs in Tucson, AZ
-
Columbus, OH
Average Salary: $134,738
Columbus is home to various industries such as healthcare and manufacturing, where contract managers play a crucial role in maintaining business operations. Companies like Nationwide and Cardinal Health provide robust platforms for professional growth. The city offers a mix of challenges and opportunities for career development.
Find Contracts Manager jobs in Columbus, OH
-
Cleveland, OH
Average Salary: $132,400
Cleveland's contract managers are key in managing agreements for businesses in finance and healthcare. The role involves thorough analysis and negotiation skills, with major employers like KeyCorp and University Hospitals offering solid career paths. The city's economy provides a stable environment for growth.
Find Contracts Manager jobs in Cleveland, OH
-
San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $131,433
San Diego's contract managers work with tech giants and defense contractors. The role is dynamic, requiring strong negotiation skills and attention to detail. Companies like Qualcomm and General Dynamics offer excellent career prospects and a vibrant work culture.
Find Contracts Manager jobs in San Diego, CA
-
Raleigh, NC
Average Salary: $130,843
In Raleigh, contract managers work with tech firms and healthcare providers. The role here involves managing projects and ensuring compliance. Major employers like IBM and Duke Health provide excellent opportunities for career advancement and professional development.
Find Contracts Manager jobs in Raleigh, NC
-
Colorado Springs, CO
Average Salary: $129,411
Colorado Springs offers a mix of defense, aerospace, and tech industries where contract managers are essential. The role involves strategic planning and negotiation. Companies like Lockheed Martin and Raytheon provide a stable and rewarding career path in a thriving business environment.
Find Contracts Manager jobs in Colorado Springs, CO
-
Philadelphia, PA
Average Salary: $128,457
Philadelphia's contract managers work with diverse industries such as healthcare and finance. The city's rich history of business fosters a dynamic work environment. Major employers like Comcast and Independence Blue Cross offer excellent career growth opportunities.
Find Contracts Manager jobs in Philadelphia, PA
-
Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $128,101
In Sacramento, contract managers work in government and healthcare sectors. The role is crucial in maintaining smooth operations and compliance. Companies like Kaiser Permanente and various state agencies offer stable and rewarding career opportunities.
Find Contracts Manager jobs in Sacramento, CA
-
Richmond, VA
Average Salary: $126,946
Richmond offers opportunities for contract managers in healthcare and government sectors. The role is vital for ensuring operational efficiency and compliance. Employers like Bon Secours Mercy Health and various state agencies provide a stable career path with good growth prospects.
Find Contracts Manager jobs in Richmond, VA
What are the best companies a Contracts Manager can work for?

-
Luster National
Average Salary: $163,000
Luster National is a leading firm offering comprehensive services across the United States. The Contracts Manager role here involves managing client relationships and ensuring the best terms for the company. Positions are available in major cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago.
-
Raytheon
Average Salary: $161,800
Raytheon is a global technology and defense firm. Contracts Managers at Raytheon work on high-value defense contracts. Opportunities are available in cities such as Arlington, VA, and El Segundo, CA.
-
KPMG
Average Salary: $159,120
KPMG provides audit, tax, and advisory services worldwide. Contracts Managers at KPMG handle complex negotiations and agreements. They work in locations including New York, San Francisco, and Washington, D.C.
-
Collins Aerospace
Average Salary: $157,750
Collins Aerospace is a leading aerospace company. Contracts Managers oversee defense and commercial contracts. They operate in cities such as Charlotte, NC, and Sydney, Australia.
-
BAE Systems USA
Average Salary: $152,987
BAE Systems USA offers defense and security solutions. The Contracts Manager ensures compliance and manages client interactions. Positions are available in cities such as San Diego, CA, and London, UK.
-
PCL Construction
Average Salary: $130,000
PCL Construction is a leading construction firm in Canada and the United States. Contracts Managers here manage building projects and negotiate terms. Positions are in cities like Calgary, AB, and Portland, OR.
-
Leidos
Average Salary: $126,898
Leidos provides technology, engineering, and science solutions. Contracts Managers at Leidos work on government and commercial projects. Locations include Reston, VA, and Melbourne, FL.
-
Universal Engineering Sciences
Average Salary: $119,909
Universal Engineering Sciences focuses on engineering and environmental services. Contracts Managers handle projects related to infrastructure. They work in cities such as Houston, TX, and Washington, D.C.
-
Amazon.com
Average Salary: $107,855
Amazon.com offers e-commerce and cloud computing services. Contracts Managers at Amazon oversee vendor agreements and supply chain deals. They work in cities like Seattle, WA, and New York, NY.
-
Robert Half
Average Salary: $94,084
Robert Half provides staffing solutions for various industries. Contracts Managers at Robert Half handle recruiting and placement for clients. Positions are available in major cities across the United States.
How to earn more as a Contracts Manager?
A Contracts Manager plays a crucial role in ensuring that all parties in a contract adhere to agreed-upon terms. This job requires a mix of negotiation skills, legal knowledge, and attention to detail. To earn more in this position, focus on enhancing these key areas.
First, gaining more experience is a powerful way to increase earning potential. Employers often value experience and may offer higher salaries to those with proven track records. Second, obtaining relevant certifications can also boost your salary. Certifications in contract management or project management demonstrate your commitment to the field. Third, developing strong negotiation skills can lead to better contract terms, which benefits both the company and can result in higher bonuses or raises. Fourth, mastering legal knowledge around contracts ensures that you can manage and negotiate contracts effectively, which is highly valued. Lastly, specializing in a niche industry can make you more valuable. Having expertise in areas like construction, IT, or pharmaceuticals can attract higher-paying job offers.
Here are five factors to consider for earning more as a Contracts Manager:
- Gain more experience in contract management.
- Obtain relevant certifications.
- Develop strong negotiation skills.
- Master legal knowledge around contracts.
- Specialize in a niche industry.



