Launch Your Career as an Acquisition Program Specialist with the U.S. Navy

Are you looking for a career that combines technical expertise, financial rigor, and a commitment to national security? The Department of the Navy is currently hiring an Acquisition Program Specialist to support the Fleet Readiness Center Southwest in San Diego, California. This role is a unique opportunity to contribute to the backbone of naval industrial operations.

Job Responsibilities

As an Acquisition Program Specialist, you will be the engine behind the division's procurement and contractual success. Your daily tasks include:

Contractual Oversight: Preparing and reviewing acquisition documents, invoices, and modifications.
Financial Analysis: Evaluating expenditure reports to ensure compliance with pre-established obligations.
Data Analysis: Performing market research and cost break-downs to support negotiation sessions.
Stakeholder Communication: Presenting program status and funding updates to agency officials.

Requirements

To be considered for this position, applicants must meet specific federal eligibility standards. Below is a breakdown of the requirements:

Level	Experience/Education Requirement
GS-7	One year of specialized experience at the GS-5 level or 1 year of graduate education.
GS-9	One year of specialized experience at the GS-7 level or a Master's degree.

Salary Overview

This position is structured within the General Schedule (GS) pay system, with a salary range between $57,641 and $91,664 per year. Salaries are determined based on experience and education.

Benefits

Working for the Department of the Navy comes with an industry-leading benefits package:

Full health and dental insurance options.
Competitive retirement plans, including the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
Continuous learning and professional development programs.

Application Tips

Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your resume highlights the specific competencies listed in the job posting (e.g., problem-solving, attention to detail).
Respect the Limit: Keep your resume to 2 pages; otherwise, your application may be rejected.
Prepare for Assessments: Be ready to dedicate up to 2 hours for the USA Hire competency-based assessments.

This role is an excellent stepping stone for anyone looking to build a career in government acquisition. With competitive pay and a supportive professional environment, the U.S. Navy offers more than just a job; it offers a mission. Apply by August 14, 2026, to take your first step toward this exciting career.

Why This Acquisition Program Specialist Job Matters

Launch a high-impact career with the Department of the Navy: Join the team at Fleet Readiness Center Southwest as an Acquisition Program Specialist and help safeguard our nation's freedom.

Acquisition Program Specialist Job Overview

The Department of the Navy is seeking a dedicated Acquisition Program Specialist to join the Industrial Acquisition & Procurement Division at Fleet Readiness Center Southwest, located in San Diego, California. In this vital role, you will contribute to the financial health, procurement accuracy, and operational efficiency of naval acquisition programs. You will work closely with senior specialists to analyze expenditures, manage contract documentation, and ensure that program goals are met with precision. This position offers a professional environment where your attention to detail and analytical skills directly support our military mission.

Requirements for Acquisition Program Specialist

U.S. Citizenship is required.
Must meet the specialized experience requirements for the GS-7 or GS-9 grade levels.
Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
Submission of a concise resume (maximum 2 pages).
Completion of required USA Hire competency-based assessments.
Meeting time-in-grade requirements for current federal employees.
Successful completion of a background investigation.

Preferred Qualifications for Acquisition Program Specialist

Master’s degree or higher in a relevant field for GS-9 eligibility.
Experience with federal procurement regulations and contract administration.
Proficiency in advanced Microsoft Excel and data analysis techniques.
Demonstrated ability to effectively present technical findings to senior leadership.
Professional experience in cost-benefit analysis and market research.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive Federal Salary
✓Comprehensive Health Insurance
✓Federal Retirement System Participation
✓Generous Leave Policy (Annual and Sick Leave)
✓Professional Development and Training Opportunities
✓Work-Life Balance Programs

💡 How to Apply Acquisition Program Specialist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Acquisition Program Specialist Job

Review the full job announcement on USAJobs.
Prepare a resume limited to exactly 2 pages.
Click 'Apply Online' and complete the required questionnaires.
Submit your application package before the deadline of August 14, 2026.
Complete the mandatory USA Hire assessments within 48 hours of notification.
Track your application status via your USAJobs account dashboard.

💡 General Tips

Use the USAJobs Resume Builder to ensure all required information is included.
Clearly label your federal experience, including pay plans, series, and grades.
Upload transcripts early to avoid technical delays.
Ensure your resume explicitly maps to the specialized experience described in the posting.
Double-check your email notifications after submission for the USA Hire assessment link.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary focus of this role?

The role focuses on preparing acquisition documents, analyzing contract fund status, performing cost-price analysis, and supporting senior staff in program procurement initiatives.

Is a security clearance required?

Yes, this position requires a Secret-level security clearance due to the nature of the work performed.

Can I submit a long, detailed resume?

No, resumes are strictly limited to a maximum of 2 pages. Excessively long resumes may not be considered.

Job from Naval Air Systems Command

The Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) is dedicated to delivering the best service possible to the warfighter. At Fleet Readiness Center Southwest, civilians and military personnel work side-by-side to maintain, repair, and overhaul aircraft. Working here means being part of a team where purpose and patriotism unite to safeguard our freedoms.