Federal Contract Manager Job Description Part 2
Last Updated January 6, 2021
Salary Potential for Federal Contract Manager Jobs
The 2018 Contract Management Salary Survey published by the National Contract Management Association (NCMA) reports that 41% of all full-time, U.S.-based contract management professionals earn between $100,000-$149,000 annually in total compensation (including base pay and bonus). The overall median salary for all contract managers is reported to be $102,800 per year. Individuals working for the federal government or government contractors may earn between $60,000 and $130,000 depending on employer, education level, experience and certification status.
The NCMA survey also indicated that earnings can be significantly impacted by education and certification. The results showed that while non-certified professionals earn a median salary of $94,000 per year, those with certification can experience higher earning potential. Individuals who hold the Certified Federal Contract Manager (CFCM) credential earn a median annual salary of $110,000, while those with the Certified Professional Contract Manager (CPCM) designation earn a median salary of $124,000.
Incomes tend to increase with experience and positions of greater responsibility. According to the NCMA survey, managers earn a median annual salary of $128,000, while executives earn a median income of $175,000.
Education and Training
Federal contract manager jobs have different education and training requirements according to specific role, industry and employer. Most employers require at least a bachelor’s degree, although some companies and government agencies may accept a two-year degree and relevant experience. Some federal contract management professionals go on to earn master’s or doctorate degrees. For example, contract attorneys typically hold a Juris Doctor (JD).
The path to a federal contract manager job can begin with a relevant bachelor’s degree and continue with specialized government contract management training. A bachelor’s degree in business administration, management, finance or other related field is generally accepted by most employers. Specialized training can be obtained through professional education programs.
In addition, many employers prefer to hire candidates who hold NCMA certification. While the Certified Commercial Contract Manager (CCCM) designation is often deemed acceptable, some employers favor applicants with Certified Federal Contract Manager (CFCM) or Certified Professional Contract Manager (CPCM) credentials.
To develop the critical skills required for senior government contract manager jobs and prepare for the rigorous NCMA certification exams, many professionals enroll in continuing professional education – such as the 100% online certificate programs available from Villanova University.
Professionals who complete Villanova University’s Certificate in Contract Management will learn the knowledge and skills to:
- Apply valuable knowledge of federal acquisition regulations, procurement, ethics and government property restrictions.
- Understand the procurement process, from requisition to contract enforcement.
- Draft competitive proposals that can win business for a government contractor.
- Master federal contract negotiation and management best practices.
- Prep for the CCCM, CFCM and/or CPCM certification exams.
- Successfully compete for the most sought-after federal contract manager jobs.
The certificate program consists of three courses. Students may earn continuing education units (CEUs) upon completion of each course, in addition to a certificate of completion from Villanova University.
When you earn a Certificate in Contract Management from Villanova, you’ll not only prepare to achieve industry certification, but you’ll develop the practical skills and in-depth knowledge to increase your federal contract management career opportunities.
