Launch Your Career: Contract Specialist with the Oregon Air National Guard
Are you looking for a career that combines technical expertise in procurement with the honor of serving your community and country? The 142nd Wing of the Oregon Air National Guard, based in Portland, is currently seeking a motivated and skilled Contract Specialist to join their team. This role is essential for maintaining the operational readiness of the National Guard, ensuring that the organization has the resources, supplies, and construction services needed to fulfill its vital mission.
Job Responsibilities
As a Contract Specialist, you will wear many hats. Your primary objective is to manage the entire acquisition lifecycle, ensuring that all actions are compliant with federal law and designed for maximum efficiency. Your daily duties will include:
- Acquisition Planning: Collaborating with program managers and technical experts to draft market research and define acquisition strategies.
- Solicitation and Award: Preparing complex solicitation documents, analyzing bids, conducting price/cost analysis, and identifying areas for negotiation.
- Performance Oversight: Serving as an advisor to Contracting Officer Representatives (CORs) and monitoring contractor performance against contract metrics.
- Business Advisory: Providing guidance to functional commanders and team members on legal responsibilities and contractual language.
Key Qualifications
The table below outlines the general progression requirements for the GS-07 through GS-12 grade levels:
| Grade | Required Experience | Key Focus |
|---|---|---|
| GS-07 | 1 year of data collection/analysis experience | Business/Financial Support |
| GS-09 | 1 year of contracting at GS-07 level | Contracting principles & regulations |
| GS-11 | 1 year of contracting at GS-09 level | Pre-award/Post-award functional specialization |
| GS-12 | 1 year of contracting at GS-11 level | Complex acquisition planning & advisory |
Note: All applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
Salary and Benefits
The salary for this position ranges from $54,370 to $125,378, depending on the grade level attained and your specialized experience. Beyond the base salary, employees enjoy the comprehensive benefits package associated with federal service, including robust healthcare coverage, retirement plans, and long-term career growth potential through professional acquisition training.
Application Tips
Applying for a federal position requires precision. Follow these tips to maximize your chance of being referred:
- Tailor Your Resume: Use your two-page resume to clearly map your experience to the duties listed in the announcement.
- Be Quantitative: List your hours per week and specific dates of employment. Vague information often leads to lower qualification ratings.
- Prepare Your Documentation: Have your military records and transcripts ready to upload. If you are not in the Oregon ANG, ensure you have proof of your eligibility to join.
- Answer Assessment Questions Honestly: Your resume must explicitly support every answer you provide in the questionnaire.
This position is more than just a job; it is a critical support role for those who defend our nation. If you possess the integrity, analytical skills, and drive required to navigate the federal acquisition landscape, we encourage you to apply. Start your journey by visiting the application link today and ensuring your profile is complete.
Why This Contract Specialist Job Matters
Launch a high-impact career with the Oregon Air National Guard as a Contract Specialist, where your expertise in federal acquisition directly supports national defense missions.
Contract Specialist Job Overview
The 142nd Wing of the Oregon Air National Guard is seeking a dedicated Contract Specialist to oversee complex procurement strategies. This pivotal role involves managing the full acquisition lifecycle—from initial market research and solicitation to contract award and performance oversight. Working within a fast-paced, mission-driven environment, you will serve as a key business advisor, ensuring all procurement actions align with federal regulations and organizational objectives.
Requirements for Contract Specialist
- Must possess a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
- Must be a member of or eligible for immediate membership in the Oregon Air National Guard.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
- Required to file an OGE Form 450 Confidential Financial Disclosure Report annually.
- Must complete Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act (DAWIA) certification requirements within 24 months.
- Ability to work in a Title 32 Excepted Service/Military status, including wearing the military uniform.
Preferred Qualifications for Contract Specialist
- Current federal contracting experience at the GS-07, 09, 11, or 12 levels.
- In-depth knowledge of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and regulatory compliance.
- Demonstrated expertise in post-award contract administration and managing Contracting Officer Representatives (CORs).
- Strong proficiency in market research, acquisition planning, and cost/price analysis.
- Professional certification in federal contracting.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary range based on GS-07 to GS-12 grade levels.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and life insurance options.
- ✓Participation in the federal retirement system.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and DAWIA-mandated training.
- ✓Stability of service within the National Guard structure.
💡 How to Apply Contract Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Contract Specialist Job
- Prepare a detailed, two-page resume highlighting your relevant contracting experience, series, and grade.
- Gather supporting documents such as transcripts, military records (DD-214/AFSC documentation), and certifications.
- Log in to your USAJOBS account to initiate the application process.
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire ensuring your responses align with your resume details.
- Submit your finalized application package before the 11:59 PM EST closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Do not copy and paste the job description into your resume; tailor your entries to show how you performed the duties.
- Ensure your resume includes specific dates (Month and Year) and hours worked per week for every position listed.
- If you are not currently in the Oregon Air National Guard, reach out to a recruiter early to verify your eligibility for military membership.
- Review your application thoroughly to avoid errors, as incorrect documentation can disqualify you from consideration.
- Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all federal requirements are captured.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is military membership mandatory for this role?
Yes, this is a Title 32 Excepted Service position. You must either be a current member of the Oregon Air National Guard or be eligible to join immediately upon selection.
What is the promotion potential for this position?
The position is advertised from GS-07 to GS-12, with a maximum promotion potential of GS-12.
What happens if I fail to obtain the required contracting certifications?
Per Department of Defense policy, dual-status technicians must complete the required acquisition certifications within 24 months of appointment to remain in the position.
Can I telework in this position?
The position is not currently listed as eligible for telework.
What is a DAWIA requirement?
The Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act (DAWIA) requires that individuals in contracting roles achieve specific certifications within 24 months of appointment.
Will I need a security clearance?
Yes, you must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
Job from Air National Guard Units
The National Guard is the oldest branch of the U.S. Armed Forces, with a dual mission that serves both the state and the federal government. By joining the Oregon Air National Guard, you are becoming part of a community-focused team known for its commitment to emergency response and national defense. As a Title 32 Excepted Service employee, you will work in an environment that bridges the gap between civilian professional expertise and military organizational structure.