Advance Your Career: Contract Specialist with the U.S. Coast Guard

Are you an experienced acquisition professional looking to make a meaningful impact? The U.S. Coast Guard is seeking a dedicated Contract Specialist to join the Shore Infrastructure Logistics Center (SILC) in Norfolk, Virginia. This position is a gateway to high-level federal service, allowing you to influence the infrastructure that keeps our maritime nation safe and operational.

Job Responsibilities

As a Contract Specialist (GS-11/12), you will serve as a technical advisor to Contracting Officers. Your daily tasks include:

Developing long- and short-range acquisition strategies.
Leading negotiations for complex construction and repair projects.
Preparing Determination and Findings (D&F) and other essential legal documentation.
Collaborating with project officers to ensure goals are met within regulatory standards.

Requirements

To be considered for this role, you must meet strict federal qualifications:

U.S. Citizenship and background check eligibility.
Relevant degree or 24 semester hours in business-related fields.
One year of specialized experience at the GS-09/10 (for GS-11) or GS-11 (for GS-12) level.
Compliance with resume formatting (2-page limit, 10pt font).

Grade Comparison

Feature	GS-11	GS-12
Scope	Mid-level Acquisition	Senior/Lead Acquisition
Experience	Equivalent to GS-09	Equivalent to GS-11
Impact	Independent project management	Lead negotiator for complex programs

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive federal salary range of $75,788 to $118,092 per year, commensurate with grade and experience. Additionally, the agency may offer a 10% recruitment or relocation incentive for qualifying candidates.

Benefits

Comprehensive insurance (Health, Dental, Vision).
Thrift Savings Plan with employer match.
Student loan repayment program (up to $10,000).
Flexible schedules and professional development training.

Application Tips

Edit relentlessly: Keep your resume to exactly two pages.
Documentation: Ensure all transcripts are legible.
Honesty: Write your own essay responses; avoid using AI tools.

This role is an excellent opportunity for professionals with a background in 1102 contracting to grow within the U.S. Coast Guard. If you meet the qualifications, apply today to secure your future in public service.

Why This Contract Specialist Job Matters

Launch a mission-critical career with the U.S. Coast Guard as a Contract Specialist, where your expertise in acquisitions directly supports the infrastructure safeguarding our nation.

Contract Specialist Job Overview

The U.S. Coast Guard is seeking a motivated Contract Specialist (GS-1102) to join the Shore Infrastructure Logistics Center (SILC) in Norfolk, Virginia. This role is pivotal in managing the acquisition strategies, design, and construction of vital Coast Guard facilities. If you possess a keen eye for detail, strong negotiation skills, and a commitment to public service, this position offers a unique opportunity to influence significant maritime and shore-based projects while advancing your federal career.

Requirements for Contract Specialist

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Must be registered with or exempt from the Selective Service.
Must pass a background investigation.
Must possess a bachelor's degree OR at least 24 semester hours in relevant business fields (e.g., accounting, finance, law, or contracts).
Must provide official transcripts upon selection.
Must have one year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level.
Strict two-page resume limit (10pt font, 0.5-inch margins).
Must commit to Federal Acquisition Certification (FAC-C) requirements within 36 months.

Preferred Qualifications for Contract Specialist

Experience executing projects for facility design, construction, and maintenance.
Proven ability to lead complex contract negotiations and document preparation.
Sophisticated skills in cost and financial analysis for interrelated contracts.
Advanced graduate degree in a relevant business or management field.
Familiarity with government acquisition regulations and strategies.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
✓Life and long-term care insurance options.
✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style retirement).
✓Flexible Spending Accounts.
✓Paid federal holidays and generous personal leave.
✓Tuition reimbursement and professional development training.
✓Potential student loan repayment up to $10,000.
✓Recruitment/relocation incentive of 10% for eligible candidates.

💡 How to Apply Contract Specialist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Contract Specialist Job

Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a resume no longer than two pages.
Gather supporting documents, including transcripts and SF-50s if applicable.
Complete the online application and respond to all required assessment questionnaires.
Submit your complete application package before the August 30, 2026, deadline.
Monitor your email for USA Hire assessment invitations and follow instructions carefully.

💡 General Tips

Respect the two-page limit strictly; exceeding it will disqualify your application.
Use your own words in the vacancy questionnaire; do not use AI or consultants.
Ensure your resume includes clear start and end dates and hours worked per week.
Review your transcript against the required course list before submitting.
Check your application status regularly through the USAJOBS dashboard.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a security clearance required for this role?

No, this position does not require a security clearance, though a standard background investigation is mandatory.

Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?

No. The system is designed to reject applications with resumes exceeding the two-page limit.

Are there incentives for this position?

Yes, recruitment or relocation incentives of 10% may be authorized for eligible new or transferring federal employees, subject to a service agreement.

What is the closing date?

All applications must be received by August 30, 2026.

Can I get a reasonable accommodation?

Yes, requests can be made during the application process via the contact email provided.

Job from U.S. Coast Guard

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the U.S. Coast Guard play a vital role in securing our nation’s maritime interests, protecting the President, and managing complex logistics. By joining the Construction Contracting Division at SILC, you become a core member of an organization focused on resilience and excellence. Your work will directly support the design, maintenance, and repair of facilities that serve Coast Guard missions around the globe.