Launch Your Career in Federal Contracting with the Air Force
Are you looking to pivot into a high-impact career that blends business strategy with national security? The Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center (AFNWC) is seeking dedicated Contract Specialists to join their team. This role is central to the United States Air Force's ability to maintain its nuclear triad and technological superiority.
Job Responsibilities
As a Contract Specialist, you will act as a primary business advisor to technical program managers. Your daily tasks will include:
- Analyzing procurement requirements to ensure compliance with federal law.
- Executing both pre-award and post-award contract actions.
- Conducting rigorous market research to determine best-value acquisition strategies.
- Managing contract terminations, performance appraisals, and dispute resolutions.
- Negotiating price and cost structures to ensure fiscal responsibility.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Education: A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
- Documentation: You must provide official transcripts.
- Resume Standards: Your resume must be strictly limited to two pages and clearly list dates and hours worked per week for all previous roles.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $40,736 to $97,087 per year, commensurate with experience. Beyond the base pay, federal employees enjoy an industry-leading benefits package, including:
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Retirement | Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent) and Federal Pension |
| Insurance | Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage |
| Flexibility | Telework opportunities and flexible schedules |
| Leave | Generous accrual of vacation and sick time |
Application Tips
Don't let your application get filtered out. Ensure your resume is clean, concise, and contains every piece of data requested in the instructions. Verify that your documents are uploaded well before the deadline to allow for processing time.
If you have a keen eye for detail and a desire to support the mission of the United States Air Force, this role provides the perfect environment to refine your skills and grow as a federal acquisition professional.
Why This Contract Specialist-Direct Hire Authority Job Matters
Shape the future of national defense with the Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center as a vital member of our contracting acquisition team.
Contract Specialist-Direct Hire Authority Job Overview
The Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center is hiring Contract Specialists to perform critical pre-award and post-award functions. You will serve as a business advisor to technical teams, managing complex acquisitions that support the nation's nuclear triad and infrastructure. This role is part of an acquisition demonstration project (NH-02), providing professional oversight for a variety of commodities, services, and construction projects essential to the Air Force mission.
Requirements for Contract Specialist-Direct Hire Authority
- U.S. Citizenship
- Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
- Submission of official college transcripts
- Resume must not exceed two pages and include hours worked per week and dates of employment
- Ability to obtain and maintain necessary security clearances
Preferred Qualifications for Contract Specialist-Direct Hire Authority
- Experience in Federal contracting laws and regulations
- Knowledge of market research and commercial business practices
- Proficiency in risk identification, assessment, and mitigation
- Experience with complex contract negotiations and price/cost analysis
- Strong judgment in applying precedents and case law to contracting decisions
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Health and life insurance options
- ✓Federal retirement benefits
- ✓Paid vacation and sick leave
- ✓Opportunities for telework
- ✓Structured career progression
💡 How to Apply Contract Specialist-Direct Hire Authority Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Contract Specialist-Direct Hire Authority Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages, detailing your specific work hours and dates.
- Complete the online application questionnaire.
- Upload required documents, including official transcripts and performance appraisals if applicable.
- Submit your application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes your pay plan, series, and grade if you are a current or former federal employee.
- Clearly define your responsibilities and hours worked for every position listed on your resume.
- Verify that your uploaded documents have successfully cleared the virus scan.
- Keep your resume font at 10 pts or larger to ensure readability.
- Avoid including personal information such as photographs, SSNs, or religious affiliation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the NH-02 pay band?
The NH-02 band is part of an acquisition demonstration project, which is generally equivalent to the GS-05 through GS-11 salary range.
Can I apply if I am currently a student?
Yes, provided you hold the required bachelor's degree. If your degree is pending or you are using education to qualify, you must provide transcripts.
Is this a remote position?
No, this role requires on-site work at the specified locations, though the position is eligible for situational telework.
Is there travel involved?
Travel requirements vary by project but may be necessary for contract oversight.
Does this position offer growth?
As an acquisition demonstration project, your growth is tied to performance and professional development within the acquisition career field.
Job from Air Force Materiel Command
The Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center is responsible for the acquisition, sustainment, and modernization of nuclear systems. From the Minuteman III to the cutting-edge Sentinel program, the AFNWC ensures that the Air Force remains vigilant and capable of executing its mission anytime, anywhere.