Launch Your Career: Contract Specialist at the Bonneville Power Administration
Are you looking to take your contracting career to the next level? The Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) is currently hiring a Contract Specialist to manage high-stakes, multi-million dollar procurement projects. This role is essential to maintaining the energy infrastructure of the Pacific Northwest. If you have the expertise to manage the full contract lifecycle, we want to hear from you.
Job Responsibilities
As a Contract Specialist, you will act as a key business advisor. Your primary duties will include:
- Procurement Strategy: Developing innovative plans for complex construction and specialized tech.
- Negotiation: Securing best-value terms for the agency.
- Lifecycle Management: Guiding contracts from initial solicitation to final closeout.
- Performance Monitoring: Ensuring contractors meet strict specifications and budgets.
Requirements
Applicants must meet specific educational and professional standards, including:
- Education: A bachelor's degree or 24 semester hours in business, finance, accounting, or related fields.
- Experience: At least one year of specialized experience at the GS-11 level.
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Comparison of Qualifications
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Education | Bachelor's Degree or 24 relevant credits |
| Experience | One year at GS-11 level |
| Assessment | USA Hire Competency Assessment Required |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $89,508 to $130,786 per year. Beyond the paycheck, BPA provides a robust benefits package, including a focus on work-life balance through the "Be Well" program.
Application Tips
- Resume: Keep your federal resume focused and detailed. Ensure you list hours worked per week for each role.
- Assessments: Do not ignore the USA Hire link if you receive one. You generally have 48 hours to complete it.
- Accuracy: Double-check your questionnaire responses; they are verified against your resume.
Joining the Bonneville Power Administration means joining a team dedicated to powering the future. If you are a qualified contracting expert ready to tackle complex challenges, apply today via the USAJOBS portal.
Why This Contract Specialist Job Matters
Power the Pacific Northwest: Lead high-impact procurement projects at the Bonneville Power Administration and drive the future of our nation's energy grid.
Contract Specialist Job Overview
The Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) is seeking a skilled Contract Specialist to join our Supply Chain Services team. In this pivotal role, you will serve as a business advisor managing high-dollar, complex acquisitions—ranging from major substation construction to advanced scientific services and cutting-edge IT systems. If you are an experienced professional ready to handle the full lifecycle of critical contracts, this is your opportunity to contribute to a mission-driven, self-funding federal agency.
Requirements for Contract Specialist
- Must be a United States Citizen.
- Bachelor's degree or at least 24 semester hours in relevant fields (accounting, business, finance, law, etc.).
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-11 grade level (or equivalent).
- Compliance with Selective Service registration for males.
- Ability to report in person to the official duty location.
- Completion of the Office of Government Ethics Financial Disclosure Report.
Preferred Qualifications for Contract Specialist
- Experience managing complex solicitations or high-dollar federal contracts.
- Proven background in negotiating terms with industry partners.
- Proficiency in performing detailed cost and price analysis.
- Strong skills in resolving contractual disputes and managing performance.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary package.
- ✓Work/life balance programs.
- ✓Be Well wellness program supporting physical, social, and financial health.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and federal career growth.
💡 How to Apply Contract Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Contract Specialist Job
- Create or sign into your account on USAJOBS.
- Submit a federal resume (limited to two pages) detailing your work history and education.
- Provide academic transcripts if required by the positive education standards.
- Complete the online application questionnaire truthfully.
- Submit your package before the closing date of July 25, 2026.
- Complete the USA Hire Competency Based Assessment if prompted via email.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes full employer addresses, specific work schedules, and clear start/end dates.
- Review your application for completeness; incomplete packages will be rated as ineligible.
- Check your 'Junk' or 'Spam' folders for assessment links from the USA Hire system.
- Set aside at least 3 hours for the online assessment process.
- Submit your documentation early to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the initial cut-off date for this position?
The initial referral cut-off date is May 15, 2026. Applications received after this date will be reviewed as vacancies become available.
Is this a remote position?
No, this position requires the incumbent to report in person to the official duty location in Portland, The Dalles, Seattle, or Vancouver.
What does the 'Direct-Hire' authority mean?
This position is under Direct-Hire Authority, meaning traditional rating and ranking of applicants does not apply. All qualified candidates will be forwarded to the hiring official.
What is the closing date?
The position closes on July 25, 2026.
Can I email my transcripts?
No, all documentation must be uploaded directly to the USAJOBS portal.
Job from Bonneville Power Administration
The Bonneville Power Administration is a federal power marketing agency within the Department of Energy. BPA is unique; it is self-funding, meaning it covers its operational costs through the sale of electricity generated from 31 hydroelectric projects. Our mission is to provide reliable, low-cost power while maintaining a commitment to environmental stewardship and the success of our veteran workforce.