Career Spotlight: Become a Contract Specialist with the Air National Guard
Are you an experienced professional in procurement, finance, or business management looking to elevate your career? The Air National Guard is currently seeking a Contract Specialist (GS-12) to join the 178th Wing/MSG team in Springfield, Ohio. This role offers the perfect blend of analytical challenge and civic service, placing you at the heart of the agency’s procurement operations.
Job Responsibilities
As a Contract Specialist, your duties are multifaceted and critical to mission success:
- Acquisition Planning: Develop and implement strategies to meet complex contracting objectives.
- Regulatory Compliance: Navigate complex public laws, case law, and GAO decisions to ensure all solicitations remain compliant.
- Business Advisory: Provide expert guidance to program managers and technical personnel regarding performance work statements and quality assurance.
- Lifecycle Management: Manage everything from initial procurement requests to post-award performance reviews and contract closeouts.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
- Education: A Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution is required.
- Experience: Candidates must possess one year of specialized contracting experience at the GS-11 level.
- Certification: You must hold a Professional Acquisition Certification.
Salary Overview & Comparison
The position offers a competitive salary consistent with federal GS-12 standards.
| Pay Level | Annual Salary Range | Interval |
|---|---|---|
| GS-12 | $92,841 - $120,696 | Per Year |
Benefits
Employees of the Air National Guard enjoy a robust package, including:
- Comprehensive Health Insurance
- Generous leave policy (annual and sick leave)
- Structured federal retirement programs
- Ongoing professional development and training
Application Tips
- Be Precise: Your resume must explicitly state dates (Month/Year) and average hours worked per week.
- Documentation is Key: Have your official transcripts and certification documents ready before starting your application.
- Review Carefully: Ensure your responses to the Occupational Questionnaire align with the detailed experience listed on your resume.
This role represents an excellent opportunity for motivated individuals to apply their contracting skills in a meaningful, high-stakes environment. Apply today and take the next step in your professional journey with the Air National Guard.
Why This Contract Specialist Job Matters
Elevate your federal career as a Contract Specialist with the Air National Guard—where your strategic expertise in acquisition directly supports national defense.
Contract Specialist Job Overview
The 178th Wing/MSG of the Air National Guard is seeking a dedicated Contract Specialist (GS-12) to serve as a pivotal business advisor and acquisition lead. In this Title 5 Excepted Service role, you will manage the full lifecycle of complex contracts, ensuring mission objectives are met through precise market research, expert solicitation management, and proactive performance oversight. If you possess a sharp eye for detail and the ability to navigate regulatory landscapes to drive efficient contracting strategies, this is your opportunity to serve your community and country.
Requirements for Contract Specialist
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Bachelor's Degree from an accredited institution.
- One year of specialized contracting experience at the GS-11 level or equivalent.
- Active Professional Acquisition Certification.
- Must hold or be eligible to obtain a Secret security clearance.
- Compliance with Selective Service registration requirements for male applicants born after 12/31/1959.
Preferred Qualifications for Contract Specialist
- Demonstrated experience in acquisition planning and market research.
- Advanced knowledge of contract law, GAO decisions, and public law precedents.
- Proven track record in managing performance metrics and conducting price/cost analysis.
- Ability to serve as a high-level advisor to technical personnel and leadership.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal benefits package.
- ✓Paid federal holidays, sick leave, and vacation time.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
- ✓Access to a wide range of career advancement possibilities within the Department of the Air Force.
- ✓Health and life insurance options.
💡 How to Apply Contract Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Contract Specialist Job
- Log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Ensure your resume includes specific dates, hours per week, and detailed duty descriptions.
- Complete the online Occupational Questionnaire.
- Upload required documentation, including official transcripts and professional certifications.
- Review your application package for accuracy before final submission.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS 'My Applications' dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Tailor your resume to highlight specialized contracting experience, including your specific role in market research and solicitation development.
- Ensure your transcripts are official to avoid delays in the qualification process.
- Double-check that your dates of employment are in 'Month/Year' format as requested.
- Submit early to allow for potential delays in the document virus scanning process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary function of this role?
As a Contract Specialist, you will oversee the full acquisition lifecycle—from initial market research and strategy development to post-award performance management.
Is a security clearance required?
Yes, this position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Secret-level security clearance.
Can I apply if I am not currently a federal employee?
This vacancy is open to internal candidates as defined by the agency's hiring paths; please review the eligibility criteria in the full announcement.
Is there an opportunity for telework?
Yes, this position is telework eligible, subject to agency policy.
How do I track my application?
You can monitor your application status at any time by logging into your USAJOBS account dashboard.
Job from Air National Guard
The National Guard holds a proud history as the oldest component of the U.S. Armed Forces. As a part of the 178th Wing, you will be supporting the mission of the Department of the Air Force, contributing to a tradition of collective defense and community support. Working here means more than just a job; it means joining a team dedicated to excellence and integrity.