Become a Contract Specialist with the Department of Veterans Affairs
Are you a dedicated professional looking to align your career with a mission that truly matters? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently seeking talented individuals to serve as Contract Specialists. This role is pivotal in ensuring that the VA can provide the world-class care and services that our nation's Veterans deserve. By managing the complex procurement of everything from medical technology to facility maintenance, you will be the backbone of our operational success.
Job Responsibilities
As a Contract Specialist (GS-12), you will be tasked with:
- Managing the full lifecycle of procurement for medical supplies, IT services, and construction.
- Performing complex contract reviews and providing guidance to team members.
- Mentoring junior specialists and identifying training needs.
- Coordinating with vendors and ensuring compliance with federal acquisition regulations.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $89,508 – $145,468 |
| Job Series | 1102 (Contracting) |
| Grade | GS-12 |
| Telework | Available (Ad Hoc) |
Requirements
To be considered for this competitive position, you must be a U.S. citizen and possess the relevant educational background or specialized experience in contract law, finance, or business. All candidates must complete the required online assessments and submit a resume that strictly adheres to the two-page limit.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive federal salary, commensurate with experience and the locality pay scales of your assigned duty station. As a GS-12 role, the pay is structured to reflect the high level of responsibility required in modern federal procurement.
Benefits
Beyond the salary, the VA provides a comprehensive federal benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and generous leave policies. We also support a healthy work-life balance through flexible scheduling and telework options.
Application Tips
- Focus on Quality: Use concise, results-driven language in your resume.
- Follow Instructions: Ensure your resume is exactly two pages long.
- Document Everything: Double-check that your SF-50s and transcripts are attached correctly.
Serving as a Contract Specialist at the VA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to excellence. We invite you to review the requirements and submit your application to join our dedicated team.
Why This Contract Specialist Job Matters
Join a mission-driven team at the Department of Veterans Affairs and play a critical role in securing the essential supplies and services that support our nation's heroes.
Contract Specialist Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking dedicated Contract Specialists to join the Office of Acquisition, Logistics and Construction. In this vital role, you will perform professional procurement work, managing the lifecycle of complex contracts for medical supplies, facility equipment, construction, and IT services. This position offers the opportunity to make a tangible impact on the care and support provided to Veterans while navigating the federal procurement landscape.
Requirements for Contract Specialist
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Completion of a bachelor's degree or at least 24 semester hours in relevant fields like accounting, business, finance, or law.
- Must meet one-year time-in-grade requirements for current or former federal employees.
- Completion of an online assessment is mandatory.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a high-risk background investigation.
- Must be able to provide all required documentation, including transcripts and SF-50s, by the closing date.
Preferred Qualifications for Contract Specialist
- Expertise in Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) and VA-specific procurement policies.
- Demonstrated ability to manage complex contracts, including firm-fixed price and cost reimbursement types.
- Experience in mentoring junior staff and conducting acquisition training.
- Proven history of successfully executing contract actions and managing warrant authority.
- Proficiency in identifying and vetting socio-economic set-aside sources.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal total rewards package
- ✓Flexible and compressed work schedule options
- ✓Ad hoc telework opportunities
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
- ✓Service credit for annual leave accrual
💡 How to Apply Contract Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Contract Specialist Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume strictly limited to two pages.
- Attach all required documentation, including transcripts and SF-50 forms.
- Submit your application and complete the required online assessment.
- Monitor your application status through the USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume to exactly two pages to avoid immediate disqualification.
- Clearly list hours worked per week and specific dates for all experience.
- Ensure all educational transcripts are legible and show the degree conferred.
- Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure your formatting complies with requirements.
- Submit your package well before the deadline to account for potential technical delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, this is not a fully remote position. While some ad hoc telework may be available, incumbents are expected to be based within 50 miles of a VA-owned or leased facility.
What happens if my resume exceeds two pages?
Per current Merit Hiring Plan requirements, resumes exceeding two pages will result in an automatic ineligible rating. Only the first two pages will be reviewed.
Do I need a security clearance?
A formal security clearance is not required; however, the position is designated as High Risk (HR) and requires a successful background/suitability investigation.
Can I work from home permanently?
*A: No, this is an in-person, office-based role with limited ad-hoc telework options.*
What is the most important part of my application?
*A: Your resume and adherence to the page limit are critical for initial screening.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Office of Acquisition, Logistics and Construction (OALC) within the VA is responsible for a vast array of procurement activities that keep the VA running smoothly. We are committed to President Lincoln’s promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." Working with us means joining a community that values compassion, integrity, and excellence.