Become a Lead Contract Specialist with the U.S. Coast Guard
Are you an acquisition professional looking to take the next step in your career? The U.S. Coast Guard is offering a career-defining opportunity for a GS-14 Contract Specialist in Alexandria, Virginia. As a key advisor for C5I acquisition programs, you will wield significant authority, managing multimillion-dollar contracts that support maritime safety and national security.
About the U.S. Coast Guard
The U.S. Coast Guard is an integral component of the Department of Homeland Security. Responsible for maritime law enforcement, search and rescue, and environmental protection, the Coast Guard requires elite professional staff to maintain its global reach. Joining the Coast Guard civilian team means playing an essential role in the mission to protect the nation's ports, waterways, and coastal regions.
Job Responsibilities
The selected candidate will serve as a senior advisor to top management. Key responsibilities include:
- Full Lifecycle Management: Overseeing contracts from the initial acquisition plan to final close-out or termination.
- Negotiation Lead: Serving as the primary negotiator for complex system acquisitions.
- Policy Oversight: Ensuring all procurements comply with the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR).
- Socioeconomic Implementation: Directing program efforts to meet socioeconomic goals as outlined in FAR Part 19.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, you must be a U.S. Citizen. Key qualifications include:
- Education: A bachelor's degree with at least 24 semester hours in business-related disciplines.
- Experience: One full year of specialized experience at the GS-13 level.
- Warrant Authority: The ability to qualify for and maintain an unlimited contracting officer warrant.
| Feature | Requirement Detail |
|---|---|
| Grade Level | GS-14 |
| Location | Alexandria, VA |
| Education | Required (Positive) |
| Security Clearance | Q Access Authorization |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $143,913 to $187,093 per year. Beyond base pay, employees enjoy the standard federal benefits package, including:
- Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)
- Extensive health insurance choices
- Generous leave policies
- Fitness center access and wellness programs
Application Tips
- Limit Your Resume: The system will automatically reject any resume exceeding two pages.
- Focus on Impact: Describe your specific contributions to past negotiations rather than listing generic duties.
- Complete Assessments: If prompted for the USA Hire assessment, prepare in advance using the resource center provided by OPM.
If you are a seasoned acquisition expert ready to tackle high-impact procurement challenges, this role at the U.S. Coast Guard offers the perfect environment for growth. Apply today through USAJOBS to secure your future in federal contracting.
Why This Contract Specialist Job Matters
Advance your contracting career at the heart of national security with the U.S. Coast Guard—leading mission-critical acquisitions in Alexandria, VA.
Contract Specialist Job Overview
The U.S. Coast Guard is seeking a high-level GS-14 Contract Specialist to serve as a strategic advisor and expert in acquisition management within the Office of Contract Operations. In this critical role, you will lead complex, high-dollar contracting programs, implement socioeconomic initiatives, and manage the full acquisition lifecycle to support the Coast Guard's global maritime missions.
Requirements for Contract Specialist
- U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
- Must be registered with or exempt from Selective Service.
- Four years of specialized contracting experience, including one year at the equivalent of the next lower grade level.
- Bachelor's degree with 24 semester hours in business-related fields (accounting, finance, law, etc.).
- Ability to obtain and maintain an unlimited contracting officer warrant.
- Completion of mandatory training as prescribed by the agency.
- Must successfully pass a background investigation.
- Federal salary payments must be made via direct deposit.
Preferred Qualifications for Contract Specialist
- Proven track record in high-stakes negotiations for complex service and system acquisitions.
- Strong proficiency in cost and price analysis techniques, including learning curve analysis.
- Direct experience supporting IT-focused procurement.
- Experience managing socioeconomic programs under FAR Part 19.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style retirement plan)
- ✓Paid federal holidays and generous personal leave
- ✓Flexible work schedules and wellness programs
- ✓Professional training and development opportunities
- ✓Tuition reimbursement options
💡 How to Apply Contract Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Contract Specialist Job
- Create a profile on USAJOBS and ensure your resume is no longer than two pages.
- Submit your resume, college transcripts, and any applicable SF-50s or veterans' documentation.
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire once prompted.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS portal.
- Prepare for a structured interview should you be selected for further consideration.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly under two pages to avoid immediate disqualification.
- Ensure your resume reflects specific, measurable impacts rather than just copying language from the job description.
- Double-check that your transcripts clearly list course numbers, titles, and credit hours.
- Set aside at least three hours for the USA Hire assessment and take it in a quiet environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a security clearance required for this role?
Yes, this position requires Q Access Authorization.
Can I submit my resume by email?
No, all applications must be submitted through the official USAJOBS platform.
Is relocation offered for this position?
*A: Yes, specific relocation incentives may be available for qualified permanent federal employees moving to the area.*
What is the deadline to apply?
*A: The position is open until September 8, 2026.*