Become a Contract Specialist with the Defense Intelligence Agency
Are you a seasoned procurement professional looking to elevate your career while contributing to national security? The Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) is currently hiring for a high-level Contract Specialist position in Washington, D.C. This role offers the opportunity to shape critical acquisition strategies within one of the nation’s most important intelligence organizations.
Job Responsibilities
As a Contract Specialist (GG-15), you will be a lead strategist. Your responsibilities include:
- Leading complex procurement strategies for the entire organization.
- Acting as an advisor to senior mission managers on acquisition matters.
- Facilitating communication between diverse stakeholders to resolve sensitive contracting issues.
- Ensuring all acquisition activities comply with legal and ethical standards.
- Driving the development of long-term business partnerships.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet strict federal and agency-specific criteria:
- U.S. Citizenship: Required for all applicants.
- Clearance: Ability to obtain and maintain a Sensitive Compartmented Information clearance.
- Certification: Must meet or be prepared to achieve DAWIA Contracting Professional Certification.
- Experience: Minimum of four years of relevant acquisition experience.
Requirements Comparison Table
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Experience | 4+ Years in Acquisition |
| Certification | DAWIA Professional (or 36-month timeline) |
| Security | Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) |
Salary Overview
The salary for this GG-15 position is highly competitive, ranging from $169,279 to $197,200 per year. This scale reflects the high level of responsibility, leadership, and expertise required for this critical role within the Defense Civilian Intelligence Personnel System (DCIPS).
Benefits
DIA employees enjoy a robust federal benefits package, including:
- Health insurance options that cater to your family’s needs.
- Comprehensive retirement planning, including a 401(k)-style plan.
- Generous leave policies for a healthy work-life balance.
- Access to specialized training and career development programs.
Application Tips
Success in your application begins with preparation. Use the online portal at the official agency website to save your progress frequently. Ensure your resume highlights specific examples of how you have led complex procurements, your experience with source selection, and your history in fostering high-level agency partnerships. Since final applications cannot be modified, review your content thoroughly before hitting submit.
If you are ready to apply your contracting expertise to the most significant challenges facing our nation, the DIA wants you on our team. Apply via the agency's career portal today to start your journey.
Why This Contract Specialist Job Matters
Join the Defense Intelligence Agency as a high-level Contract Specialist and drive critical acquisition strategies for national security.
Contract Specialist Job Overview
The Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) is seeking a seasoned Contract Specialist (GG-15) to provide expert guidance and strategic oversight. In this pivotal role, you will lead complex procurement initiatives, foster high-level partnerships, and ensure the efficiency and effectiveness of services essential to our nation's defense intelligence mission.
Requirements for Contract Specialist
- U.S. Citizenship
- Successful completion of a rigorous background investigation
- Passing a pre-employment drug test
- Agreement to a civilian mobility policy
- Commitment to non-disclosure of classified information
- DAWIA Contracting Professional Certification (or ability to achieve within 36 months)
- Four years of acquisition experience
- Execution of a 3-year tenure agreement
Preferred Qualifications for Contract Specialist
- Experience holding a Contracting Officer's Warrant within the last three years
- Proven background in Source Selection processes
- Demonstrated ability to foster open, transparent communication regarding sensitive issues
- Strong active listening skills and the ability to advocate for diverse viewpoints
- Experience in navigating complex organizational stakeholders and senior leadership
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
- ✓Competitive retirement programs
- ✓Generous paid leave and federal holidays
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
- ✓Participation in the DoD Direct Deposit/Electronic Fund Transfer program
💡 How to Apply Contract Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Contract Specialist Job
- Register for an account on the official DIA career portal.
- Search for the specific job opening using the provided 6-digit ID.
- Prepare your application documents, including your resume and supporting credentials.
- Submit your application electronically via the portal before the closing date.
- Monitor your email for status updates regarding receipt and selection status.
💡 General Tips
- Submit your application well before the deadline to avoid technical issues.
- Ensure your experience is clearly mapped to the assessment factors mentioned.
- Save your work frequently while using the online application tool.
- If you need to make changes, submit a new application, as finalized ones cannot be edited.
- Review all DAWIA certification requirements before applying to ensure eligibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the security requirement for this role?
The position requires a Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) clearance and the successful completion of a comprehensive background investigation.
Is travel required for this position?
Applicants should be prepared for potential mobility as part of the agency's requirements for civilian employees.
What is the DCIPS system?
*A: The Defense Civilian Intelligence Personnel System is the classification and pay system used by the DIA, tailored to the unique mission needs of the intelligence community.*
Is there a drug test?
*A: Yes, as part of the security and employment conditions, all selected candidates must pass a drug test.*
Job from Defense Intelligence Agency
The Defense Intelligence Agency is at the forefront of the nation's intelligence community. Our mission is to provide intelligence on foreign militaries to deliver a decision advantage to our warfighters, defense policymakers, and force planners. We pride ourselves on teamwork, integrity, and excellence. Joining the DIA means working in an environment that values your expertise and rewards innovation.