Launch Your Federal Career as a Contract Specialist with CMS

Are you looking to advance your career while contributing to the nation's healthcare infrastructure? The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is seeking skilled, analytical, and driven professionals for the position of Contract Specialist (GS-13). This is a unique opportunity to work within a high-impact agency, managing large-scale federal acquisitions that shape health policy and patient care across the United States.

Job Responsibilities

As a GS-13 Contract Specialist, you will act as a steward of taxpayer funds, ensuring that every contract is managed with integrity and precision. Key responsibilities include:

Contract Lifecycle Management: Overseeing all aspects of pre-award and post-award functions.
Financial Analysis: Performing comprehensive cost and price analysis to ensure the reasonableness of proposals.
Strategic Negotiation: Leading teams to negotiate favorable terms and conditions with vendors.
Regulatory Compliance: Preparing solicitation documents that align with the Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) and internal HHS policies.

Requirements

To be considered for this high-level position, you must meet stringent federal criteria. These include:

Citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen.
Experience: You need at least one year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level or higher.
Education: A bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 24 semester hours in business-relevant subjects such as finance, accounting, law, or management.
Documentation: Submission of a concise, two-page resume and relevant college transcripts.

Salary and Locality Overview

CMS provides a competitive pay structure based on geographic locality. Below is a comparison of expected salary ranges across various duty stations:

Location	Salary Range
San Francisco, CA	$133,060 - $172,980
New York, NY	$125,431 - $163,062
Washington, DC	$121,785 - $158,322
Chicago, IL	$118,984 - $154,682
Atlanta, GA	$112,556 - $146,325
Kansas City, MO	$108,173 - $140,627

Benefits of Federal Employment

Federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package designed to support both professional and personal well-being. This includes comprehensive health insurance, federal pension plans (FERS), and a generous Thrift Savings Plan. Furthermore, CMS encourages work-life balance through flexible scheduling and telework opportunities.

Application Tips

Follow the Two-Page Rule: Exceeding the two-page resume limit will result in an automatic rejection.
Be Specific: When describing your work history, ensure you include the specific series, grade level, and weekly hours worked.
Apply Early: This is an open continuous announcement. Applying early maximizes your chances of being included in early rounds of interviews.
Proofread: Ensure your resume clearly documents your experience with FAR regulations and cost-price analysis.

If you have the contracting expertise and a desire to serve the public, this GS-13 Contract Specialist role offers a path to meaningful work within the federal government. With competitive pay and the opportunity to support the CMS mission, this role is a significant career move for any procurement professional. Review your qualifications, prepare your documentation, and submit your application today.

Why This Contract Specialist Job Matters

Shape the future of American healthcare as a key negotiator and strategic advisor at the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).

Contract Specialist Job Overview

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is hiring multiple Contract Specialists (GS-13) to join the Office of Acquisition & Grants Management. This is a critical role that supports the agency’s mission by overseeing high-stakes procurements, complex contract administration, and vital negotiation strategies. You will work within a dynamic environment dedicated to improving the efficiency and quality of the national healthcare landscape.

Requirements for Contract Specialist

U.S. Citizenship.
Must be able to provide transcripts verifying a bachelor's degree with at least 24 semester hours in business-related fields (accounting, finance, contracts, etc.).
Minimum of one year (52 weeks) of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 level in the Federal government.
Completion of all mandatory training required for GS-13 level contracting positions.
Submission of a concise resume (maximum of 2 pages).
Must pass the required online assessment.

Preferred Qualifications for Contract Specialist

Demonstrated ability to perform cost and price analysis for varied, complex contracts.
Proven history of developing and leading successful negotiation strategies.
Deep familiarity with Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) and HHS procurement policies.
FAC-C Professional certification or equivalent.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive Federal salary with locality pay adjustments.
✓Flexible work arrangements and alternative work schedules.
✓Comprehensive Federal health and life insurance options.
✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent) with matching contributions.
✓Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.

💡 How to Apply Contract Specialist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Contract Specialist Job

Log in to your USAJOBS account.
Ensure your resume is limited to two pages.
Upload all required transcripts and supporting documentation.
Complete the mandatory online competency assessment.
Submit your application package before the deadline.
Monitor your status via the USAJOBS portal.

💡 General Tips

Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure all required fields are included.
Explicitly detail your duties, start/end dates (mm/yyyy), and hours worked per week.
Ensure your resume clearly highlights your experience with cost analysis and negotiation.
Submit your application early to be considered for the first cutoff date.
Proofread your application thoroughly; errors can result in immediate disqualification.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the page limit for the resume?

Per current federal guidelines, all resumes submitted for this position must be exactly two pages or less.

Is telework available?

Yes, CMS supports telework and flexible scheduling, though the position requires a recurring reporting presence at the assigned office location.

What happens if I don't submit my transcripts?

Your application will be marked as ineligible. You must provide educational verification to be considered.

Is a security clearance required?

This position is designated as High Risk (HR) and requires successful adjudication of suitability and fitness, though a traditional security clearance may not be the primary hurdle.

Can I apply if my degree is from a foreign university?

Yes, but you must include a foreign education evaluation report demonstrating equivalence to a U.S. accredited institution.

Job from Centers For Medicare & Medicaid Services

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is a cornerstone of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). CMS works in partnership with the healthcare community to improve quality, efficiency, and access to services for millions of Americans. Working here means becoming part of a professional, highly visible organization that operates in a fast-paced environment. Whether you are in policy development, research, or procurement, your work at CMS directly supports the health and safety of the American public.