Become a Contract Specialist with the Defense Logistics Agency

Are you a procurement professional looking to elevate your career while contributing to national security? The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) is currently seeking a highly skilled Contract Specialist to join the team in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania. This role is a vital component of the DLA’s mission, ensuring that military departments have the necessary equipment and services to perform their duties globally. If you possess a keen eye for detail, a mastery of contracting regulations, and the drive to excel in a fast-paced environment, this may be your next career move.

Job Responsibilities

As a Contract Specialist, your duties will span the entire procurement lifecycle. Key responsibilities include:

Pre-Award Duties: Developing acquisition plans, soliciting proposals, and negotiating terms with vendors.
Post-Award Duties: Administering contracts to ensure compliance, managing long-term agreements, and handling contract terminations where necessary.
Mentorship: Providing guidance and coaching to junior specialists to foster team development.
Compliance: Interpreting and applying complex federal laws, statutes, and acquisition regulations.

Requirements

To qualify for this position, applicants must meet specific educational or experience requirements.

Level	Requirement	Education Substitution
GS-11	1 year of specialized experience at the GS-09 level	Ph.D. or 3 years of graduate study
GS-12	1 year of specialized experience at the GS-11 level	Not applicable

All applicants must also provide a two-page resume and ensure all documentation is saved as a PDF.

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary range of $76,190 to $118,718 per year. Beyond the salary, the federal government provides a robust benefits package, including:

Health, vision, and dental insurance.
Participation in the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
Generous paid annual and sick leave.
Professional development and continuous learning opportunities.

Application Tips

Act Quickly: This announcement closes after receiving 100 applications. Do not wait until the deadline.
Mind the Format: Ensure your resume is exactly two pages. The system will discard any resume exceeding this limit.
Include Details: Clearly document your hours worked per week and specific dates of employment for each experience block.

Working as a Contract Specialist at the DLA offers more than just a job; it offers the chance to support the men and women serving in our military. With a clear path for advancement and the stability of a federal career, this opportunity is ideal for dedicated acquisition professionals. Apply today to start your journey.

Why This Contract Specialist Job Matters

Shape the future of global logistics and defense procurement as a Contract Specialist with the Defense Logistics Agency.

Contract Specialist Job Overview

The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) is seeking a motivated Contract Specialist to join our team at the Naval Support Activity in Mechanicsburg, PA. In this role, you will play a critical part in the lifecycle of federal contracts, managing pre-award and post-award processes that sustain our nation's military and global logistical operations. Whether you are streamlining supply chain acquisitions or mentoring junior staff, your expertise will directly impact the readiness and efficiency of the Department of Defense.

Requirements for Contract Specialist

U.S. Citizenship.
Completion of a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution.
One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-09 level for GS-11, or GS-11 level for GS-12.
Ability to obtain and maintain necessary security clearances.
Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug screening.
Submission of a resume not exceeding two pages in length.

Preferred Qualifications for Contract Specialist

Experience in federal contract solicitation and acquisition planning.
Proficiency in administering complex, long-term contracts.
Demonstrated ability to mentor junior acquisition professionals.
Strong technical writing and negotiation skills.
Professional certification in DoD Acquisition Contracting.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
✓Life insurance options.
✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
✓Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching.
✓Paid federal holidays, annual leave, and sick leave.
✓Flexible work arrangements and telework opportunities.

💡 How to Apply Contract Specialist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Contract Specialist Job

Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages.
Create or log into your USAJOBS profile.
Upload all required documentation, including academic transcripts if using education to qualify.
Complete the online application questionnaire.
Submit your package before the 100-application cap is reached or the closing date, whichever comes first.

💡 General Tips

The application window is limited to 100 applications; apply early to ensure consideration.
Adhere strictly to the two-page resume limit; excess pages result in automatic disqualification.
Use standard, legible fonts like Lato or Arial and save your documents as PDFs.
Clearly define your work schedule and hours worked per week on your resume.
Ensure your transcript is attached if you are using education to satisfy basic requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum resume length?

Your resume must not exceed two pages. Resumes exceeding this limit will be removed from consideration.

Can I substitute education for experience?

For the GS-11 level, specific graduate education may be substituted. Education cannot be substituted for experience at the GS-12 level.

What happens if the 100-application limit is reached?

The announcement will close immediately upon reaching 100 applications, even if the expiration date has not yet been reached.

Is a security clearance required?

Yes, this position requires a security clearance suitable for federal employment within the Department of Defense.

Can I submit multiple resumes?

*A: If you submit multiple, only the most recent one will be reviewed.*

Does the position require a drug test?

*A: Yes, as a condition of employment, all selectees must pass a drug screening.*

Job from Defense Logistics Agency

The Defense Logistics Agency serves as the U.S. Department of Defense's combat logistics support agency. By providing worldwide support to military departments and federal agencies, the DLA ensures that critical supplies and services reach their destinations under both peacetime and wartime conditions. Joining the DLA means becoming part of an organization that values integrity, professional growth, and mission success.