Become a Contracting Specialist with the Department of the Navy

Are you a detail-oriented professional with a passion for procurement? The Commander, Navy Region Southeast (CNRSE) is currently seeking a highly motivated Contracting Specialist to join our Fleet and Family Readiness (FFR) team at Naval Air Station (NAS) Jacksonville. This position is perfect for individuals who thrive in fast-paced environments and want to contribute to the mission of supporting our Sailors and their families.

Job Responsibilities

As a Contracting Specialist, you will act as a cradle-to-grave acquisition lead. Your primary responsibilities include:

Procurement Facilitation: Assisting customers and vendors in navigating complex procurement policies.
Contract Lifecycle Management: Drafting, soliciting, evaluating, and awarding contracts for critical supplies and services.
Strategic Negotiation: Engaging with contractors on non-routine or highly technical supplies where no clear precedent exists.
Compliance Oversight: Ensuring all actions adhere to federal statutes, Department of Defense, and Department of the Navy regulations.
Training & Liaison: Educating staff on contract requirements and participating in assist visits to ensure operational effectiveness.

Comparison: Contracting vs. Traditional Procurement

Feature	Contracting Specialist	Traditional Procurement
Scope	Full Lifecycle (Cradle-to-Grave)	Transactional Focus
Regulatory Focus	Extensive DoD/NAF Compliance	General Vendor Management
Impact	Direct Fleet Readiness	Departmental Operational Efficiency

Requirements

To be considered, you must demonstrate a mix of academic achievement and hands-on experience. Candidates must hold a 4-year degree (or 24 relevant semester hours) and at least one year of comprehensive experience in contract procurement. All applicants must successfully pass a background investigation and be able to obtain a government contracting warrant.

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive hourly wage ranging from $20.00 to $25.00, depending on your professional experience and academic background.

Benefits

Working for the federal government provides exceptional long-term stability and a comprehensive benefits package, including:

Leave: 13 days of annual and sick leave accrued annually.
Health: Immediate enrollment in medical, dental, and vision plans.
Retirement: NAF Retirement Plan plus a 401(k) with up to 3% employer matching.
Perks: Access to MWR facilities such as golf courses, gyms, and discounted travel programs.

Application Tips

Federal applications require strict adherence to guidelines. Use the "Federal Resume" format: ensure your resume clearly lists the pay plan, series, grade (if government), and dates of employment for each entry. Proofread your submission to verify that every requirement, including your official transcripts, is included in your file before the August 4, 2026, deadline.

This role is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to serve those who protect our nation. If you have the procurement skills and the drive to succeed, we encourage you to apply to the Commander, Navy Region Southeast today.

Why This Contracting Specialist Job Matters

Advance your procurement career by supporting those who serve! Join the Navy’s Fleet and Family Readiness team at NAS Jacksonville and play a pivotal role in delivering essential services to our Sailors and their families.

Contracting Specialist Job Overview

As a Contracting Specialist with the Commander, Navy Region Southeast, you will serve as a vital link in the procurement lifecycle. Based at Naval Air Station Jacksonville, you will manage a diverse portfolio of supplies and services essential for Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) programs. This role offers the unique opportunity to blend administrative expertise with strategic negotiation, ensuring our fleet readiness programs remain mission-ready and efficient.

Requirements for Contracting Specialist

U.S. Citizenship (or compliance with specific hiring status requirements).
Registration with the Selective Service for males born after 1959.
Ability to obtain and maintain a favorable background investigation.
Possession of a bachelor's degree or 24 semester hours in relevant business fields (e.g., accounting, finance, contracts, or marketing).
At least one year of comprehensive experience in procurement, contract policies, and procedures.
Ability to acquire an initial contracting warrant within 90-120 days.
Must possess or be able to obtain a REAL ID compliant form of identification.
Must be able to pass an E-Verify employment check.

Preferred Qualifications for Contracting Specialist

Professional understanding of Nonappropriated Fund (NAF) procurement policies.
Experience utilizing automated financial management systems and software such as Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
Proven track record in analyzing complex records and preparing professional reports.
Strong interpersonal skills for conducting training and facilitating communication between stakeholders and vendors.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓13 days of annual leave and 13 days of sick leave per year.
✓11 paid federal holidays.
✓Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
✓NAF Retirement Plan and 401(k) investment options with employer matching up to 3%.
✓Long-term disability and life insurance plans.
✓Access to Navy MWR facilities (golf, gyms, marinas, and recreation).
✓Navy Exchange shopping privileges.
✓Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options.

💡 How to Apply Contracting Specialist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Contracting Specialist Job

Create or update your profile on the USAJOBS platform.
Prepare a resume that is exactly two pages or fewer, formatted in Times New Roman, 10-point font, with one-inch margins.
Upload your official college transcripts confirming your degree or completed credit hours.
Complete the online questionnaire via the provided link.
Submit your application package by the closing date of August 4, 2026.
Monitor your status through the USAJOBS dashboard.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume includes detailed dates (to/from), hours worked per week, and specific job titles for all relevant roles.
Be precise in your self-assessment; the hiring team will verify your claims against your resume documentation.
Review your application package twice to ensure all required documents (such as transcripts and SF-50s) are included before hitting submit.
If you are claiming veteran's preference, ensure all supporting documentation like your DD-214 is attached.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary function of this role?

The Contracting Specialist supports the Fleet and Family Readiness programs by managing the procurement of supplies, equipment, and services needed for Navy morale and welfare operations.

Is travel required for this position?

This position requires travel, and you may be required to maintain a government-issued travel card for official duties.

What happens if I forget to submit my transcripts?

Official transcripts are a mandatory requirement. Failure to provide them at the time of application will result in an automatic ineligibility rating.

Can I use a degree audit instead of transcripts?

*A: No, only official transcripts from an accredited institution are accepted.

Is this a remote position?

*A: No, this role is based on-site at Naval Air Station Jacksonville.

Job from Commander, Navy Installations Command

The Fleet and Family Readiness (FFR) organization is dedicated to providing world-class quality-of-life programs for the Navy community. From Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) services to child care and housing, our mission is to ensure our force remains ready and resilient. We value innovation, integrity, and stewardship, and we are looking for team members who share these guiding principles.