Launch Your Contracting Career with the Defense Information Systems Agency
If you are an experienced procurement professional looking to make a meaningful impact on national security, the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) invites you to join our team in Fort Meade, Maryland. We are currently hiring motivated Contract Specialists to help oversee the critical IT and communications acquisitions that power our military forces globally.
Job Responsibilities
As a Contract Specialist, your duties will be diverse and challenging. You will:
- Manage the full lifecycle of procurement, including competitive proposals and cost-type contracts.
- Lead cross-functional teams of engineers, attorneys, and analysts during complex negotiations.
- Conduct rigorous market research and cost analysis to ensure taxpayer value.
- Draft performance work statements and contract modifications.
Comparison of Grade Levels
| Grade | Experience Focus |
|---|---|
| GS-9 | Entry/Developmental; basic procurement and cost analysis. |
| GS-11 | Mid-level; full administration and complex analysis. |
| GS-12 | Senior/Full-performance; end-to-end management of complex contracts. |
Requirements and Qualifications
To be considered, applicants must possess a strong background in procurement. You must be able to demonstrate your specialized experience in the body of your resume. Key requirements include:
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
- Ability to obtain a Secret security clearance.
- A maximum two-page resume as per the specific announcement instructions.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $70,623 to $133,142 per year. Beyond the paycheck, employees enjoy a robust federal benefits package, including:
- Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Comprehensive health and life insurance.
- Generous paid leave accrual.
- Opportunities for professional growth and acquisition certification training.
Application Tips
Ensure your resume is formatted correctly and specifically highlights your experience with federal procurement or price analysis. Do not include personal photos or sensitive government data. Always double-check your application against the checklist provided in the official announcement to avoid disqualification.
Are there promotion opportunities?
Yes, there is potential for promotion to the target grade without further competition, though it is not guaranteed.
Join DISA and apply your contracting expertise to a mission that matters. With opportunities for growth and a seat at the table of national defense, this is the perfect next step for your federal career.
Why This Contract Specialist Job Matters
Take your contracting career to the next level at the epicenter of defense technology—join the Defense Information Systems Agency at Fort Meade.
Contract Specialist Job Overview
The Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) is seeking skilled Contract Specialists to join our dynamic Procurement Services Division in Fort Meade, Maryland. This role offers a unique opportunity to directly impact national defense by managing complex IT acquisitions, systems, and communications infrastructure that support global military operations.
Requirements for Contract Specialist
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Must meet basic education requirements: A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
- Specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-7/9/11) depending on the target grade.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
- Submission of a two-page maximum resume detailing specific duties, start/end dates, and employment status.
- Must obtain Acquisition certification in Contracting at the Professional tier within 36 months of appointment.
Preferred Qualifications for Contract Specialist
- Strong proficiency in federal procurement planning and solicitation.
- Demonstrated experience in cost and price analysis techniques.
- Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams, including engineers and legal counsel.
- Expertise in IT acquisition and understanding of prevailing market conditions.
- Advanced degree (Master's, LL.B., or J.D.) in business, accounting, finance, or related fields.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Comprehensive federal health insurance options.
- âś“Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- âś“Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- âś“Ongoing professional development and acquisition training.
- âś“Potential for telework based on mission requirements.
- âś“Relocation and recruitment incentives may be authorized.
đź’ˇ How to Apply Contract Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Contract Specialist Job
- Prepare a resume that is no more than two pages in length.
- Ensure your resume includes detailed job duties, month/year start/end dates, and weekly hours worked.
- Email your resume to the specified DISA recruitment address.
- Include the announcement number '12997520' in your correspondence.
- Monitor your email for submission acknowledgment and follow-up requests regarding education transcripts.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to the two-page limit as required by this specific announcement.
- Clearly articulate your specialized experience in the body of your resume rather than using separate competency statements.
- Verify that your education meets the accreditation standards recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
- If you are a current or former DoD employee claiming the 'Grandfathered' exemption, ensure you have your SF-50 from before October 2000 ready.
- Double-check your email subject line to ensure the announcement reference is included correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the education requirement for this position?
You must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Certain current DoD employees may be exempt if they held specific positions prior to October 1, 2000.
Are transcripts required at the time of application?
No, please do not submit transcripts initially. They will be requested later in the process if you are selected for further consideration.
Is this a remote position?
No, this position is based in Fort Meade, Maryland. However, telework may be available depending on mission requirements and management approval.
Can I work remotely?
While this role is based in Fort Meade, telework is available based on supervisory approval and mission needs.
Job from Defense Information Systems Agency
DISA is a combat support agency within the Department of Defense. We provide the vital communications and computing infrastructure that ensures the President and our military commanders can communicate securely across the globe. As a Contract Specialist here, you are not just managing paperwork—you are enabling mission-critical technology.