Become a Contract Specialist for the U.S. Marshals Service
Are you looking to elevate your career in federal acquisition? The U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) is currently hiring a Contract Specialist at the GS-13 level in Arlington, Virginia. This position is a perfect fit for a seasoned procurement professional ready to tackle complex acquisitions while supporting one of the nation's most prestigious law enforcement agencies.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will manage the full lifecycle of contract procurement. Key responsibilities include:
- Developing strategic acquisition plans for various services and maintenance contracts.
- Leading negotiations to ensure cost-effectiveness and favorable terms for the government.
- Interpreting and applying the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and Justice Acquisition Regulation (JAR).
- Collaborating with integrated product teams and review boards.
- Overseeing post-award actions, such as incremental funding, contract modifications, and COR designations.
Comparison of Requirements
| Criteria | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Education | Bachelor's Degree + 24 hours business credits |
| Specialized Experience | 1 Year at GS-12 level or equivalent |
| Security | Must pass Public Trust background check |
Requirements for Success
To qualify, you must possess at least four years of experience in contracting or a related field. You must also demonstrate one year of specialized experience at the GS-12 grade level, specifically involving the award, administration, and termination of service contracts. Strong negotiation skills and proficiency in documenting procurement actions are non-negotiable.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $121,785 to $158,322 per year. Federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive health and life insurance.
- Generous retirement options via the Federal Employees Retirement System.
- Investment growth through the Thrift Savings Plan.
- Ample paid time off, including federal holidays, annual leave, and sick leave.
How to Apply
Candidates must submit a comprehensive application package through USAJOBS by August 4, 2026. Ensure your resume explicitly details the hours worked per week and the specific duties performed to match the job requirements.
If you have the procurement expertise and a desire to serve the public, this role at the U.S. Marshals Service offers a challenging and rewarding career path. Prepare your application materials carefully and submit them via the official portal to begin the process.
Why This Contract Specialist Job Matters
Advance your federal career with the U.S. Marshals Service. Apply your expert contracting knowledge to protect the integrity of the judicial system.
Contract Specialist Job Overview
The U.S. Marshals Service is seeking a seasoned Contract Specialist to join their team in Arlington, Virginia. In this vital role, you will lead the development and evaluation of complex contracts for essential goods and services, directly supporting the mission-critical operations of the U.S. Marshals Service headquarters. This position offers the opportunity to apply deep regulatory expertise within the framework of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) while exercising independent judgment on high-impact procurement projects.
Requirements for Contract Specialist
- U.S. Citizenship or National status
- Registration for Selective Service (for males born after 12-31-1959)
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust background investigation
- Successful completion of a pre-employment security investigation and drug screening
- Bachelor's degree with at least 24 semester hours in business-related fields (accounting, finance, law, etc.)
- At least 4 years of experience in contracting or related fields
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-12 federal level (or equivalent)
- Eligibility to obtain and maintain the Federal Acquisition Certificate in Contracting (FAC-C) level
Preferred Qualifications for Contract Specialist
- Advanced experience in awarding and administering service/maintenance contracts
- Proven track record of leading high-level contract negotiations
- Demonstrated ability to interpret and apply FAR and JAR regulatory requirements
- Experience managing integrated product teams or contract review boards
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options
- ✓Federal retirement benefits (FERS)
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style investment)
- ✓Paid annual and sick leave
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives
💡 How to Apply Contract Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Contract Specialist Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your resume detailing specific experience and duties performed.
- Complete the mandatory online Assessment Questionnaire.
- Upload required documentation, including college transcripts (if applicable).
- Submit your final package before the August 4, 2026, deadline.
- Verify receipt and application status via your USAJOBS portal.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly addresses the four specialized experience points listed in the job summary.
- Keep your resume concise; the hiring team typically reviews the first two pages primarily.
- Submit all transcripts and certifications early to avoid system delays.
- Be precise with your self-assessment; ratings are verified against your provided documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary mission supported by this position?
This role supports the U.S. Marshals Service headquarters, which manages vital operations including judiciary protection, witness security, prisoner transportation, and asset forfeiture.
Is relocation assistance available?
Relocation incentives may be authorized for the right candidate, though it is not guaranteed for every selection.
What authority is used to hire for this position?
This position is filled via Direct-Hire Authority (DHA), which streamlines the process by focusing on identifying qualified applicants.
Job from U.S. Marshals Service
The United States Marshals Service, an agency within the Department of Justice, performs a wide array of critical missions. From the protection of the federal judiciary and prisoner transportation to the apprehension of violent fugitives and asset forfeiture management, the USMS operates at the forefront of justice. As a Contract Specialist, you will be the backbone of these missions by ensuring the agency has the goods and services required to function effectively.