Become a Senior Contract Specialist at the Department of Justice
Are you ready to elevate your career in federal procurement? The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) is actively recruiting for a high-level Contract Specialist (GS-1102-14) within the Office of Acquisition Management. This role is essential for ensuring that the nation's legal and security operations have the resources they need to function effectively and efficiently.
Job Responsibilities
As a Senior Contract Specialist, your duties go beyond standard administration. You will act as a primary steward of large-scale procurement efforts. Key duties include:
- Strategy Development: Planning, developing, and executing high-level acquisition strategies.
- Contract Lifecycle Management: Awarding and administering complex contracts for professional and technical services.
- Financial Oversight: Preparing justifications, identifying appropriate contract vehicles, and managing task orders.
- Post-Award Functions: Overseeing contractor performance, resolving disputes, and executing contract close-outs.
Requirements
This position requires a high level of expertise. Applicants must meet the following baseline standards:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Education | Bachelor's degree with 24+ credits in business, law, or finance |
| Experience | 1 year of specialized experience at the GS-13 level |
| Certification | FAC-C (Professional) or DAWIA equivalent |
| Resume | Maximum of two pages |
Salary and Benefits
This GS-14 position offers a highly competitive salary range of $143,913 to $187,093 per year. Beyond the salary, federal employees enjoy an industry-leading benefits package, including:
- Robust health and life insurance options.
- A generous retirement plan, including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Paid leave, including vacation and sick time.
- Opportunities for flexible work environments.
Application Tips for Success
Competition for GS-14 roles is fierce. To stand out, ensure your two-page resume is laser-focused on your accomplishments. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to demonstrate how you have managed high-dollar contracts. Ensure your certification documents are current and easy to find, as these are mandatory requirements for the position.
If you have the experience and the dedication to public service that the Department of Justice demands, this is an unparalleled opportunity to influence federal acquisition strategy. Review the requirements, prepare your documentation, and take the first step toward a rewarding senior-level career today.
Why This Contract Specialist Job Matters
Shape the future of federal acquisitions as a senior leader within the Department of Justice’s Office of Acquisition Management.
Contract Specialist Job Overview
The Department of Justice (DOJ) is seeking a highly skilled Contract Specialist to join the Justice Management Division (JMD). In this pivotal GS-14 role, you will be responsible for the end-to-end management of complex, high-dollar contracts, executing procurement strategies that uphold the rule of law and support the vital mission of the DOJ. This is an open-continuous opportunity for experienced professionals looking to make a significant impact on national operations.
Requirements for Contract Specialist
- Completion of mandatory training prescribed for GS-13 or higher contracting positions.
- At least 4 years of experience in contracting or related fields.
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution including at least 24 semester hours in business, finance, law, accounting, economics, or related fields.
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-13 level in the federal government.
- Must possess or be eligible for FAC-C (Professional) certification or DAWIA equivalent.
- Must be able to achieve required certification within 12 months of appointment if not already held.
- Must pass the USAHIRE online assessment.
- Must submit a resume of two pages or less.
Preferred Qualifications for Contract Specialist
- Extensive experience in both pre-award and post-award contract management.
- Demonstrated ability to identify appropriate contract types and procurement methods for complex technical services.
- Proven track record in negotiating and resolving contract disputes.
- Advanced proficiency in managing contract modifications, task orders, and close-outs.
- Experience contributing to process improvements and cost-reduction initiatives in a federal setting.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with annual increases based on performance.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching contributions.
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- ✓Flexible telework options.
- ✓Professional development and training opportunities.
💡 How to Apply Contract Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Contract Specialist Job
- Log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Review the specific questionnaire link provided in the vacancy announcement.
- Upload your two-page resume highlighting specialized experience.
- Submit your official or unofficial academic transcripts.
- Provide documentation for your FAC-C (Professional) certification.
- Complete the required online assessment to measure critical competencies.
- Submit your finalized application package through the online portal before the specified quarterly cutoff dates.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit; extra pages may not be reviewed.
- Clearly map your work experience to the four core competency areas listed in the job duties.
- Do not simply repeat the specialized experience text; provide concrete, qualitative examples of your work.
- Double-check that your transcripts are in English or include a certified translation.
- Complete the optional narrative essay questions thoughtfully, as they provide insight into your alignment with DOJ core values.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, the position is located in Washington, D.C. While telework eligibility may be available, the role requires a physical presence for operational needs.
What happens if I apply after the initial cutoff date?
Applications received after the initial cutoff are held and considered during subsequent quarterly reviews if additional vacancies arise.
Can I use AI to write my essay responses?
No. Applicants are required to certify that they used their own words and did not utilize AI tools or LLMs like ChatGPT when drafting their narratives.
What is the cutoff for applications?
The position follows a quarterly review cycle, with the first cutoff date on August 27, 2026. Applying early is strongly recommended.
Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?
No, the announcement explicitly states a two-page maximum. Exceeding this may lead to disqualification.
Job from Offices, Boards And Divisions
The Department of Justice is the cornerstone of the federal legal system. Its mission is to uphold the rule of law, protect civil rights, and ensure the safety of all Americans. Employees at the Justice Management Division (JMD) are tasked with the stewardship of taxpayer resources, requiring an unwavering commitment to honesty, integrity, and excellence. Working here means joining an organization that values independence, impartiality, and professional growth.