Launch Your Career as a Contract Specialist with the VA

Are you looking to apply your procurement and business expertise to a mission-driven organization? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently hiring for the position of Contract Specialist at the GS-12 level. This role is essential to our ability to deliver healthcare and support services to our nation's Veterans.

Job Responsibilities

As a Contract Specialist, you will manage complex procurement activities. Your duties will include:

Performing market research and reviewing statements of work.
Leading negotiations for competitive and non-competitive procurements.
Conducting cost and price analysis to ensure the best value for taxpayers.
Administering contracts post-award and resolving delivery or performance issues.
Utilizing electronic procurement systems like eCMS and FPDS.

Qualification Requirements

To be considered for this position, you must meet the following criteria by the closing date:

Education: A bachelor's degree or 24 semester hours in business-related fields.
Experience: One year of specialized experience at the GS-11 level or equivalent.
Citizenship: You must be a U.S. Citizen.

Requirements Comparison

Requirement	Description
Education	Bachelor's Degree or 24 relevant hours
Experience	1 Year of GS-11 equivalent work
Status	US Citizen
Location	Must report on-site

Benefits

Working for the federal government comes with an extensive benefits package, including:

Competitive federal salary structure.
Robust health, dental, and vision insurance.
Retirement benefits (FERS).
Generous leave accrual policy.
Training and career advancement pathways.

Application Tips

Watch the Length: Your resume must be two pages or less. Submissions exceeding this limit will be disqualified.
Be Specific: Quantify your work. Include hours per week and specific dates to help the HR team evaluate your experience.
Use PDF: Always upload your documents in PDF format to ensure they display correctly to the hiring manager.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is this a remote role? A: No, this position requires on-site attendance at VA facilities.

Q: Can I update my application? A: Yes, you can edit your application while the job announcement is still open.

If you are ready to contribute your analytical and negotiation skills to a noble cause, apply for the Contract Specialist position today. The VA is looking for talented professionals who are ready to make a difference.

Why This Contract Specialist Job Matters

Launch a mission-driven career as a Contract Specialist with the Department of Veterans Affairs and directly impact the lives of those who served our nation.

Contract Specialist Job Overview

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking dedicated professionals for the role of Contract Specialist (GS-12). This position involves managing the full acquisition lifecycle for essential supplies and services, utilizing Federal and VA Acquisition Regulations. You will play a vital role in ensuring that the VA effectively resources its healthcare and support missions for Veterans and their families.

Requirements for Contract Specialist

U.S. Citizenship
Bachelor's degree OR at least 24 semester hours in business, accounting, finance, law, contracts, purchasing, economics, or related fields
One year of specialized experience at the GS-11 grade level (or equivalent)
Completion of a 1-year probationary period
Ability to complete online USA Hire assessments
Must be able to work on-site; this is not a remote position
Must be registered with the Selective Service (for males born after 12/31/1959)

Preferred Qualifications for Contract Specialist

Demonstrated expertise in applying Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) and VA Acquisition Regulations (VAAR)
Strong proficiency in cost and price analysis techniques
Experience managing diverse contract types including firm-fixed price and cost-reimbursement
Experience in contract administration, including terminations, claims, and contract closeouts
Advanced negotiation and market research skills

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs
✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
✓Paid annual and sick leave
✓Paid federal holidays
✓Life insurance options
✓Opportunities for professional development and training
✓Flexible work arrangements including potential telework options

💡 How to Apply Contract Specialist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Contract Specialist Job

Create or update your account on USAJOBS.
Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages.
Gather supporting documents such as transcripts, SF-50s, or DD-214.
Submit your application, questionnaire, and documents through the online portal.
Complete the required USA Hire assessment if prompted via email.
Monitor your application status through your USAJOBS account.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume includes clear start/end dates (month/year) and hours worked per week for each position.
Do not exceed the two-page limit for your resume, as this will lead to immediate disqualification.
Be specific in your resume; the hiring team cannot make assumptions about your experience.
Proofread your application thoroughly before submitting.
Save and upload documents in PDF format for the best results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a remote work position?

No, this is not a virtual or remote position. Employees must work on-site at a VA-owned or leased facility.

What is the education requirement for this role?

You must hold a 4-year bachelor's degree OR have at least 24 semester hours in relevant business fields such as accounting, finance, or law.

What is the application deadline?

The announcement is open until March 1, 2027, with periodic cut-off dates for referral every two weeks starting September 8, 2026.

Job from Department Of Veterans Affairs Headquarters

The VA is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln's promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." By joining our Office of Procurement, you become part of a professional team that ensures the VA has the necessary supplies and services to fulfill its life-changing mission.