Launch an Extraordinary Career: Become a Facility Support Contracts Branch Head with NAVFAC Atlantic in Djibouti

Are you an experienced contracting professional looking to break out of the ordinary office routine and make a tangible impact on global security? The Department of the Navy's Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command (NAVFAC Atlantic) is offering a career-defining opportunity for a Facility Support Contracts Branch Head. This GS-13 position is a full-time, temporary assignment for up to one year, featuring a 100% Temporary Duty (TDY) deployment to Camp Lemonnier in Djibouti, Africa.

Working in an expeditionary environment brings a level of professional challenge, excitement, and purpose that domestic roles simply cannot match. If you are ready to lead complex contract strategies on the front lines of national defense, this guide details everything you need to know about the position, the agency, and the application process.

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About the Agency: NAVFAC Atlantic

As an integral branch of the Department of the Navy, the Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command (NAVFAC) is responsible for planning, building, and maintaining the vital infrastructure that keeps our Navy and Marine Corps operational around the globe. NAVFAC Atlantic manages facilities projects across a massive geographic footprint, supporting warfighters through innovative engineering, public works, and contract management.

The agency's ethos is summed up by its inspiring motto: "Civilian careers—where purpose and patriotism unite!" Working as a civilian with NAVFAC allows you to combine your professional skills with a meaningful mission. The agency offers competitive salaries, comprehensive federal benefits, and unparalleled opportunities for international professional growth.

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Job Responsibilities at Camp Lemonnier

Camp Lemonnier, located in Djibouti, is a critical strategic hub for U.S. military operations in Africa. As the Facility Support Contracts Branch Head within the Expeditionary Department, you will oversee the essential infrastructure contracts that keep this base running seamlessly. Your leadership will directly affect the daily living and operational conditions of hundreds of service members.

Your primary duties will include:

• Supervising Contract Personnel: Directly assign tasks to subordinates and guide a team of performance assessment specialists. You will ensure that all contract evaluations conform precisely to Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), Department of Defense (DoD), and Navy standards.
• Managing Contract Lifecycle: Oversee the initial phase of contract design, formulate technical modifications and task orders, and track associated funding allocations to keep projects on course.
• Client Coordination: Partner closely with base tenants, military leadership, and the Facilities Management Division (FMD) to analyze installation support requirements, implementing the ideal contracting mechanisms to address those needs.
• Performance Monitoring: Maintain indirect oversight of third-party contractor performance by reviewing, analyzing, and acting upon performance assessment records.
• Deliverable Quality Assurance: Ensure all engineering and operational submittals, materials, and service deliverables are thoroughly vetted against contract specifications before work commences on public works or minor construction projects.

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Requirements & Specialized Qualifications

This is a senior-level position requiring specialized contracting skills and leadership capabilities. To qualify, your resume must demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 grade level in the federal government (or equivalent experience in the private or public sector).

Your background must showcase the following technical competencies:

1. Regulatory Expertise: A deep, practical understanding of procurement policies, specifically the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS), and Naval Facilities Acquisition Standards (NFAS).
2. Critical Analysis: Proven ability to identify contracting bottlenecks, research complex regulatory issues, synthesize findings, and propose practical, high-level solutions to leadership.
3. Contract Authoring: Experience in authoring contract requirements, constructing bidding procedures, designing proposals, and establishing clear metrics for assessing contractor performance.
4. Operational Management: Experience overseeing complex service portfolios, balancing resource limitations, and managing a workforce to ensure services are delivered on schedule.

Note: Paid and unpaid volunteer experience through organizations like National Service programs (e.g., AmeriCorps or Peace Corps) can count toward your qualified experience. Be sure to document these roles fully.

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Salary Overview and Financial Considerations

The base salary for this GS-13 equivalent position is $106,437 to $138,370 per year. Because this role is a 100% TDY assignment to Camp Lemonnier, selected candidates will be provided with government-funded travel, lodging, and applicable meal allowances in accordance with Joint Travel Regulations. This makes the position an exceptionally lucrative and cost-effective opportunity for those looking to maximize their savings while gaining incomparable career experience.

Comparing Domestic vs. Expeditionary Contracting Roles

Feature	Standard Domestic GS-13 Contracting	Camp Lemonnier TDY GS-13 Branch Head
Work Location	Established U.S. Military Installations	Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, Africa
Assignment Type	Permanent/Long-term	Temporary (not to exceed 1 year)
Travel Requirements	Minimal (typically under 10% travel)	100% TDY (Temporary Duty Deployment)
Key Focus Area	Routine lifecycle procurement and supply	Expeditionary facilities support and base infrastructure
Housing & Travel	Self-funded locally	Government-funded travel, lodging, and daily allowances

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Benefits and Professional Growth

As a civilian employee of the Department of the Navy, you will enjoy a robust compensation and benefits framework. These perks include:

• Comprehensive healthcare coverage options, including dental and vision.
• Access to the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with agency matching.
• Generous annual leave and sick leave accruals.
• A profound sense of accomplishment from leading a highly visible program in a critical international theater of operations.
• A highly respected resume highlight that sets you apart for future senior executive positions within the DoD and civilian federal agencies.

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Expert Application Tips for Success

Applying for a federal vacancy requires a meticulous approach. Follow these strategic tips to ensure your application package stands out to the HR specialists:

1. Adhere to the Strict Page Limit: Your resume must not exceed two pages. Resumes that are longer than two pages or contain unreadable files will be immediately disqualified. Condense your experience to highlight only high-impact accomplishments.
2. Format Dates and Hours Accurately: For each position on your resume, clearly specify the start and end dates (Month/Year) and the number of hours worked per week. If you have prior federal experience, list your pay plan, series, and grade (e.g., GS-1102-12).
3. Use the Resume Builder: To ensure you do not omit any legally mandated details, utilize the built-in USAJOBS Resume Builder. It guides you through the process of compiling all necessary employment records.
4. Submit Your SF-50s Correctly: If you are a current or former federal employee applying for a promotion, you must submit an SF-50 that proves you held a GS-12 position for at least one full year. Do not rely solely on a recent cost-of-living adjustment SF-50; upload an older, supporting SF-50 if necessary.
5. Apply Early: All application documents must clear an automated virus and security scan, which can take several hours. Submit your package well ahead of the deadline to avoid technical glitches.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I work remotely or telework in this position?

While the position area notes generic telework eligibility, this role is a 100% TDY assignment on-site at Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti. You will be required to work directly on-base to manage the hands-on daily operations of the facility support contracts.

What happens after I submit my application?

Once the application window closes, HR specialists will conduct a structured resume review. Candidates who meet all requirements and receive high ratings will be referred to the hiring manager. The selection process may include structured interviews.

Is this announcement for a single immediate opening?

This is a standing register announcement used to build a pool of qualified applicants for anticipated vacancies over a 365-day period. Referral lists are generated on an as-needed basis as vacancies emerge.

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Conclusion: Take the Leap

If you are a talented contracting specialist ready to trade the ordinary for the extraordinary, the Department of the Navy needs your expertise. Serving as the Facility Support Contracts Branch Head in Djibouti is more than a job—it is a mission that tests your leadership, enhances your contracting skills, and contributes directly to global stability. Ensure your resume is precisely polished to two pages, gather your documents, and take the first step toward Africa today!