Launch Your Career as a Contract Specialist with the Defense Logistics Agency

Are you looking to pivot into a high-stakes, rewarding career in federal acquisition? The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) is currently accepting applications for Contract Specialists at our Philadelphia office. This is a unique opportunity to join the "Nation's Logistics Combat Support Agency" and play a vital role in supporting our nation's military departments and combatant commands.

Job Responsibilities

As a Contract Specialist, you will be the central point of contact for various procurement actions. Your responsibilities include:

Performing intensive market research to identify product availability and potential vendors.
Developing comprehensive acquisition strategies based on market history and technical requirements.
Determining the appropriate contract types and solicitation methods.
Conducting negotiations to ensure the best value for the government.
Supporting socioeconomic goals by coordinating with small and disadvantaged businesses.

Comparison: Federal Grade Levels

Feature	GS-09	GS-11	GS-12
Salary Floor	$68,013	$82,289	$98,630
Salary Ceiling	$88,421	$106,982	$128,221
Scope	Developmental	Developmental/Independent	Full Performance

Requirements

To be eligible for this position, applicants must meet the basic contracting degree requirements—typically a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Furthermore, applicants must possess one year of specialized experience equivalent to the grade level below the one they are applying for. Please ensure all your experience is documented clearly in your resume, including hours worked per week and specific dates of employment.

Salary and Benefits

Positions at the DLA offer more than just a competitive salary. Employees gain access to the federal benefits package, which includes comprehensive health insurance, a robust retirement plan (FERS), the Thrift Savings Plan (similar to a 401k), and generous paid leave. These positions also offer continuous learning opportunities, including mandatory 80 hours of training every two years to maintain your acquisition certification.

Application Tips

Resume Limit: Your resume must be two pages or less. This is a strict requirement; exceeding this will cause your application to be rejected immediately.
Documentation: Always upload your transcripts if you are using education to qualify for the position.
Formatting: Use a clean, readable font such as Calibri or Lato. Save your file as a PDF to ensure formatting stays intact during the review process.
Cut-off Date: For the best chance at an early interview, submit your complete package by February 2, 2026.

Joining the DLA as a Contract Specialist is a prestigious career move that offers stability, excellent benefits, and the chance to contribute to the nation's defense. Whether you are early in your acquisition career or a seasoned professional looking for a new challenge, the Philadelphia team is ready to support your growth. Apply today via the USAJOBS portal.

Why This Contract Specialist (12 Month Register) Job Matters

Launch a high-impact career in federal acquisition with the Defense Logistics Agency. We are seeking talented professionals to join our contracting team in Philadelphia and support the heartbeat of the U.S. military's supply chain.

Contract Specialist (12 Month Register) Job Overview

The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) is hiring Contract Specialists for a 12-month register. This open-continuous announcement provides a pathway for qualified candidates to serve at the GS-09, GS-11, or GS-12 levels. You will be responsible for managing critical procurement processes, conducting intensive market research, and facilitating complex negotiations that ensure our armed forces remain equipped and mission-ready.

Requirements for Contract Specialist (12 Month Register)

U.S. Citizenship is required.
Must meet the basic contracting degree requirement (Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution).
One year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level.
Ability to obtain and maintain necessary security clearances.
Compliance with DLA's drug-free workplace policies, including random testing.
Resume must not exceed two pages; longer resumes will result in automatic disqualification.
Submission of transcripts if qualifying through education.

Preferred Qualifications for Contract Specialist (12 Month Register)

Prior experience in federal government acquisition or procurement environments.
Demonstrated ability to perform intensive market research and vendor outreach.
Experience managing complex contract solicitations and negotiations.
Strong understanding of FAR (Federal Acquisition Regulations) and socioeconomic goal setting.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
✓Access to the Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style investment).
✓Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
✓Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
✓Telework eligibility as permitted by agency policy.

💡 How to Apply Contract Specialist (12 Month Register) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Contract Specialist (12 Month Register) Job

Create or update your USAJOBS account profile.
Prepare a federal resume not exceeding two pages, following the recommended formatting guidelines (0.5-inch margins, 10-14pt font).
Submit your application package online, including transcripts if using education to qualify.
Monitor your status via the USAJOBS portal periodically.
Prepare for potential behavior-based interviews (BBI) if contacted.

💡 General Tips

Strictly adhere to the two-page resume limit; excess length causes automatic rejection.
Ensure your resume explicitly details dates of employment, hours worked per week, and specific duties performed.
Submit by the initial cut-off date of February 2, 2026, for priority consideration.
Upload all documents as a single PDF to maintain formatting integrity.
Use clear, professional fonts like Lato, Arial, or Calibri.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the salary range for this position?

The salary depends on the assigned grade level: GS-09 ($68,013 - $88,421), GS-11 ($82,289 - $106,982), and GS-12 ($98,630 - $128,221).

Is this a remote position?

No, the position is based in Philadelphia, PA, though it is telework eligible according to agency policy.

What happens if I miss the initial cut-off date?

The announcement is open-continuous. Applications received after February 2, 2026, will be considered if additional vacancies become available.

Job from Defense Logistics Agency

The Defense Logistics Agency, a key component of the Department of Defense, serves as the backbone for the American military. Our mission is to provide global logistics support during both peace and war, ensuring that our armed forces have the supplies and services they need, exactly when they need them. By joining the DLA, you become part of an elite team of professionals dedicated to national security.