Become a Supervisory Contract Specialist with the Bureau of Prisons
Are you a procurement professional with a commitment to public service? The Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) are currently looking for a motivated individual to serve as a Supervisory Contract Specialist in Forrest City, Arkansas. This role is essential to the agency, as it bridges the gap between administrative operational excellence and the security requirements of a federal correctional institution.
Job Responsibilities
As a Supervisory Contract Specialist, your responsibilities go beyond standard procurement. You will:
- Manage the property management and procurement programs for the institution.
- Execute and administer complex contracts for construction, supplies, and services.
- Act as an Administrative Contracting Officer (ACO) monitoring contractor performance.
- Provide legal analysis and guidance on procurement regulations.
- Participate in the security of the institution as a core responsibility of all staff.
Requirements
To qualify for this GS-11 grade position, you must meet basic requirements including a bachelor's degree or sufficient semester hours in related business fields. Candidates must also possess specialized experience in procurement operations and be able to pass necessary background and medical screenings.
Comparison Table: Qualifications
| Requirement Category | Minimum Standard |
|---|---|
| Education | Bachelor's Degree OR 24 Semester Hours in relevant field |
| Experience | 1 Year of Specialized Experience |
| Security | Background Investigation Required |
| Citizenship | U.S. Citizenship Required |
Salary Overview
The salary range for this role is $74,678 to $97,087 annually, based on federal pay scales and location adjustments. The representative rate for this specific role is $82,148 per year.
Benefits
Federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive health and insurance coverage.
- Generous retirement planning through the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Competitive annual and sick leave accruals.
- Access to professional training and development opportunities.
Application Tips
- Documentation: Ensure all transcripts are legible and include all identifying information.
- Resume Precision: Federal resumes require specific detail. Be sure to list your employment history with start/end dates and the number of hours worked per week.
- Stay Current: Monitor your status via the USAJOBS portal to track your application as it moves through the screening process.
This role offers a unique intersection of business acumen and public safety. If you have the drive to manage critical infrastructure and lead procurement teams within a federal setting, apply today to start your career with the Bureau of Prisons.
Why This Supervisory Contract Specialist Job Matters
Take charge of high-impact procurement strategy while ensuring the security and operational excellence of our federal correctional facilities.
Supervisory Contract Specialist Job Overview
The Bureau of Prisons is seeking a detail-oriented Supervisory Contract Specialist to lead procurement and property management programs in Forrest City, Arkansas. In this pivotal role, you will manage the acquisition of vital goods and services, ensuring compliance with federal law while directly contributing to the agency's overarching mission of public safety and institutional security.
Requirements for Supervisory Contract Specialist
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Bachelor's degree OR at least 24 semester hours in business, accounting, finance, law, or related fields.
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level.
- Completion of a one-year probationary period for supervisory positions.
- Ability to pass a background investigation, urinalysis, and physical exam.
- Must be able to carry a firearm (following specialized training).
- Availability for potential geographic relocation.
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Contract Specialist
- Experience in pre-award contract reviews and solicitation management.
- Proficiency in developing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for procurement offices.
- Proven track record of managing property and supply chain logistics in a high-security environment.
- Strong analytical skills related to legal interpretations and regulatory compliance.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options
- ✓Federal retirement benefits (FERS)
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent)
- ✓Paid vacation and sick leave
- ✓Formal leadership and correctional training provided
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Contract Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Contract Specialist Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement in detail.
- Create or update your USAJOBS profile.
- Gather necessary documentation, including transcripts and SF-50s.
- Submit your application through the official portal before the deadline.
- Complete the required USA Hire Assessments if prompted via email.
- Monitor your application status on your USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes exact dates (MM/YYYY) and hours worked per week for all relevant experience.
- Upload transcripts that clearly show your school name, degree, and date awarded.
- Avoid using special characters like # or % in your saved document file names.
- Apply well before the deadline to account for potential technical delays.
- Follow the specific instructions for performance appraisals and award documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum entry age for this position?
Per 5 U.S.C. 3307, the maximum entry age for initial appointment into a Bureau of Prisons institution is 36, unless you have prior federal law enforcement coverage.
Is travel required for this job?
Yes, successful candidates must complete a three-week training course at the federal facility in Glynco, Georgia.
Can I update my application after I have submitted it?
Yes, you can update your application materials through your USAJOBS account as long as the announcement is still open.
What is the training requirement?
You will need to complete a three-week 'Introduction to Correctional Techniques' course in Glynco, Georgia.
How long does the selection process take?
Normally, officials aim to make a selection within 90 days, though this can extend up to 180 days.
Job from Bureau Of Prisons/Federal Prison System
The Bureau of Prisons is the primary agency responsible for the management and oversight of federal correctional facilities. By providing a secure, humane environment and preparing individuals for reentry into society, the agency ensures the safety of the public and staff alike. Employees play a vital role in maintaining this mission, regardless of their specific department.