Advance Your Career as a Contract Specialist with CMS
Are you looking to transition into a high-impact role within the federal government? The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is currently hiring motivated professionals for the position of Contract Specialist. This is an exceptional opportunity to manage the procurement and grant processes that support the nation's healthcare infrastructure.
Role Overview
As a Contract Specialist (GS-1102-11), you will be responsible for the full lifecycle of contract management. This includes pre-award activities like market research and solicitation development, as well as post-award administration, cost analysis, and ensuring compliance with federal mandates.
Key Responsibilities
- Drafting complex solicitation documents using Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR).
- Conducting negotiations to ensure the best value for government programs.
- Collaborating with Contracting Officer Representatives (CORs) to oversee service and material acquisition.
- Analyzing costs and performance metrics to ensure contract adherence.
Salary and Location Comparison Table
| Location | Salary Range (Min-Max) |
|---|---|
| San Francisco, CA | $93,358 - $121,371 |
| New York, NY | $88,005 - $114,413 |
| Washington, DC Metro | $85,447 - $111,087 |
| Boston, MA | $84,579 - $109,959 |
| Atlanta, GA | $78,972 - $102,669 |
Requirements
To qualify, you must possess specialized experience equivalent to the GS-09 level in the federal government. Candidates must also meet education requirements, which include a bachelor’s degree or at least 24 semester hours in fields such as business, law, finance, or accounting. All applicants must submit transcripts and a resume of two pages or less.
Benefits of a CMS Career
Working for the federal government offers stability and an extensive benefits package. Beyond competitive pay, employees enjoy flexible work schedules and the potential for telework. Most importantly, you will contribute directly to the health and well-being of the American public.
Application Tips
- Use the Resume Builder: This ensures you include all necessary federal data fields.
- Be Precise: When describing your work, clearly outline the scope of your contracts and your specific role in the negotiation process.
- Meet Deadlines: Although the job is open through early 2027, take note of the initial cutoff date to ensure your application is reviewed in the first round.
If you have a passion for procurement and a desire to serve the public, this Contract Specialist position at CMS offers a stable path for professional growth. Review the requirements, prepare your documentation, and submit your application to become part of this vital agency.
Why This Contract Specialist Job Matters
Launch your career in federal contracting with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services—where your expertise shapes the future of national healthcare delivery.
Contract Specialist Job Overview
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is seeking dedicated Contract Specialists to manage critical acquisition and grant processes. In this pivotal GS-11 role, you will perform essential pre- and post-award functions, including price and cost analysis, while ensuring compliance with Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR). This position is ideal for professionals who thrive in fast-paced environments and want to contribute to the mission of protecting public health and ensuring the efficiency of the national healthcare system.
Requirements for Contract Specialist
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Must have at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-09 grade level.
- Experience in preparing acquisition documents such as solicitations, contracts, market research, or award documents.
- Experience in reviewing acquisition documents to ensure adherence to regulations and contract terms.
- Completion of a 4-year bachelor's degree OR 24 semester hours in business-related fields (accounting, finance, law, etc.).
- Submission of a resume limited to two pages or less.
- Completion of required online competency-based assessments.
- Must submit all required transcripts and supporting documentation by the closing date.
Preferred Qualifications for Contract Specialist
- Demonstrated ability to negotiate complex programs and influence stakeholders.
- Strong analytical skills regarding cost and price analysis.
- Possession of current FAC-C Professional certification.
- Proven experience working with program officials and contracting officer representatives.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with locality pay adjustments
- ✓Flexible work arrangements and alternative work schedules
- ✓Opportunities for professional growth and career advancement
- ✓Comprehensive federal benefits package
- ✓Meaningful work contributing to national public health
💡 How to Apply Contract Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Contract Specialist Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is two pages or less, detailing your relevant experience and education.
- Ensure your resume includes start/end dates, hours per week, and federal grade levels if applicable.
- Gather your transcripts and any required SF-50 or veteran preference documentation.
- Apply through the USAJOBS portal before the cutoff dates.
- Complete the required online competency-based assessment within the specified timeframe.
- Monitor your application status through your USAJOBS account.
💡 General Tips
- Use the USAJOBS resume builder for the most accurate formatting.
- Be specific about your duties and how they relate to the specialized experience requirements.
- Ensure your resume explicitly mentions your citizenship and Selective Service status (if applicable).
- Apply early; while the window is open until 2027, the agency reviews applications in batches with specific cut-off dates.
- Double-check your transcripts to ensure they clearly show credit hours and course titles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is telework available for this position?
Yes, this position is eligible for telework, though it has a regular and recurring reporting requirement to the office location.
Can I substitute education for experience?
Yes, you may substitute education for specialized experience at the GS-11 level if you possess a Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree, or 3 full years of progressively higher-level graduate education in relevant fields.
What is the promotion potential for this role?
This position is classified at the GS-11 level with promotion potential up to the GS-12 grade level.
Job from Centers For Medicare & Medicaid Services
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), an agency within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), is at the forefront of the American healthcare system. CMS works in partnership with the healthcare community to improve quality, efficiency, and access to care. Employees at CMS are part of a mission-driven organization that addresses critical national health issues.