Become a Contract Specialist with the Arkansas Air National Guard

Are you a procurement professional looking to transition your skills into the defense sector? The Arkansas Air National Guard is currently seeking a highly motivated Contract Specialist to join the 189th Airlift Wing at Little Rock Air Force Base. This role is pivotal in ensuring the operational readiness of our forces through expert acquisition strategy, contract negotiation, and lifecycle management.

Job Responsibilities

As a Contract Specialist, you will manage a wide variety of procurement requirements. Your daily tasks include:

Pre-Award Planning: Conducting market research, defining acquisition strategies, and developing solicitations.
Award Management: Evaluating offers, performing price/cost analysis, and conducting contract negotiations.
Post-Award Administration: Monitoring contractor performance, reviewing invoices, and resolving contract disputes.
Technical Support: Serving as an advisor for Government Purchase Card (GPC) programs and acquisition systems.

Comparison of Responsibilities

Phase	Key Focus
Pre-Award	Market research, strategy, and solicitation development.
Award	Evaluation, price analysis, and contract finalization.
Post-Award	Performance monitoring, modification, and file closeout.

Requirements

To be considered for this role, you must meet the following criteria:

Military Affiliation: You must be a member of the Arkansas Air National Guard or demonstrate eligibility to join immediately.
Grade Requirements: You must meet the military grade requirement of E-5 to E-6.
Experience: One year of specialized contracting experience at the GS-09 level.
Security: Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret clearance.
Training: Completion of FTS training within six months of assignment.

Salary Overview

The salary for this position is competitive, ranging from $74,678 to $97,087 per year, commensurate with qualifications and government grade structures.

Benefits

Working for the National Guard provides a comprehensive benefits package, including:

Medical and retirement plans through military service.
Opportunities for DAWIA (Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act) certification.
Professional growth in a high-stakes, rewarding environment.

Application Tips

Tailor Your Resume: Avoid copying and pasting duty descriptions. Clearly link your experience to procurement functions.
Check Your Documents: Ensure your Career Data Brief is current and uploaded in PDF format.
Plan Ahead: Don't wait until the August 21, 2026, deadline; technical issues can happen.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is relocation assistance provided? A: No, relocation is not authorized for this position. Q: Can I telework? A: This position is not currently eligible for telework.

This role offers a fantastic opportunity to serve your country while managing complex, mission-critical contracting actions. Apply today through the USAJOBS portal to begin your career with the Arkansas Air National Guard.

Why This Contract Specialist (Title 32) Job Matters

Advance your career in defense contracting while serving your community with the Arkansas Air National Guard.

Contract Specialist (Title 32) Job Overview

The Arkansas Air National Guard is seeking a motivated Contract Specialist to join the 189th Airlift Wing at Little Rock AFB. This position is a Title 32 excepted service role, offering a unique opportunity to manage complex procurement life cycles—from initial planning and solicitation to post-award administration. You will act as a key advisor to program managers and technical teams, ensuring mission success through rigorous compliance, market research, and strategic negotiation.

Requirements for Contract Specialist (Title 32)

Must be a current member of the Arkansas Air National Guard or eligible for immediate membership.
Must be willing to hold a compatible military grade (E-5/SSgt to E-6/TSgt).
Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
One year of specialized contracting experience at the GS-09 level.
Must possess or be able to initiate a National Agency Check with Inquiries (NACI) background investigation.
Completion of mandatory Full-Time Support (FTS) training within six months of assignment.

Preferred Qualifications for Contract Specialist (Title 32)

Proven background in business, finance, or supply chain management.
Experience with complex federal procurement methods and contract types.
Proficiency in price or cost analysis and negotiation techniques.
Knowledge of Government Purchase Card (GPC) program management.
Familiarity with automated acquisition systems and reporting software.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary structure
✓National Guard medical and retirement benefits
✓Professional development and certification opportunities (DAWIA Level I)
✓State and federal emergency support roles
✓Structured military career progression

💡 How to Apply Contract Specialist (Title 32) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Contract Specialist (Title 32) Job

Ensure you are a member of (or eligible to join) the Arkansas Air National Guard.
Prepare a detailed resume highlighting specific contracting experience and competencies.
Obtain your Career Data Brief (CDB) via the vMPF portal.
Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Complete the online application questionnaire and upload all required documents.
Submit your application package before the closing date of August 21, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Tailor your resume to reflect specific examples of your work rather than copying duty descriptions.
Ensure your military documentation is saved as a clear, readable PDF.
Double-check that your military grade aligns with position requirements to avoid grade inversion issues.
Submit early to allow time for the USAJOBS document virus scan process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is military membership required for this position?

Yes, this is an excepted service position within the National Guard; you must be a member of the Arkansas Air National Guard to be eligible.

What is the potential for permanent status?

The position is currently indefinite not to exceed 23 months but has the potential for conversion to a permanent appointment.

Can I apply if I am currently a higher military grade than the position allows?

Yes, but you must be willing to administratively reduce your grade upon appointment.

Job from Air National Guard Units

The National Guard serves as a vital component of the United States Armed Forces. With a heritage spanning back to the American colonial era, the Guard provides critical support to both national security and local communities during domestic emergencies. Working with the Air National Guard offers the unique blend of military service and professional federal civilian work.