Launch Your Career: Contract Specialist with the Department of the Navy

Are you looking for a career that combines professional growth with the pride of supporting national security? The Naval Air Systems Command at Point Mugu, California, is currently inviting applications for the position of Contract Specialist. This role is a vital component of the Department of Defense (DoD) mission, ensuring that our military has the supplies, services, and technology required to operate at peak efficiency.

Job Responsibilities

As a Contract Specialist, you will be the backbone of the procurement process. Your daily responsibilities will include:

Lifecycle Management: Guiding contracts from initial requirement gathering through final financial and physical closeout.
Regulatory Oversight: Reading and interpreting complex Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) to ensure total compliance.
Financial Analysis: Performing detailed cost and price analysis to ensure the government receives a fair and reasonable deal.
Negotiation: Developing pre-negotiation positions and conducting discussions with contractors to settle terms, conditions, and pricing.
Documentation: Preparing statements of work and performance work statements that clearly define project requirements.

Requirements

To be considered for this high-impact position, you must meet specific criteria:

Education: A bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 24 semester hours in business, finance, accounting, law, or related management fields.
Experience: At least one year of specialized experience at the DA-03 level (or equivalent) in federal or private sector contracting.
Security: Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret-level security clearance.

Salary and Benefits

Feature	Details
Salary Range	$87,061 - $135,657
Work Location	Point Mugu, CA
Career Type	Civilian, DoD
Certification	DAWIA Certification Required

In addition to a competitive annual salary, federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package. This includes comprehensive health insurance, a generous retirement plan with government matching, and clear paths for professional development. Furthermore, this position is eligible for telework, allowing for a better work-life balance.

Application Tips

Because this role uses a direct hire authority, your application package is your single best opportunity to make an impression. Follow these tips to succeed:

Respect the Constraints: The two-page resume limit is strictly enforced. Focus on your most recent and relevant experience.
Be Specific: When describing your work, highlight your role in negotiations and cost analysis.
Use the Right Format: Include employer names, specific dates, and grade levels to prove your eligibility.
Check Your Attachments: Ensure your transcripts are included, as they are mandatory to prove your education qualifications.

This is a unique opportunity to join an elite team at the Department of the Navy. If you possess the analytical skills and the drive to manage critical defense acquisitions, we encourage you to submit your application by the closing date. Your work in contracting is more than just a job; it is a contribution to the national security of the United States.

Why This Contract Specialist Job Matters

Launch your career with the Department of the Navy! Play a pivotal role in national security as a Contract Specialist at Point Mugu, where your expertise in procurement directly supports the fleet.

Contract Specialist Job Overview

The Naval Air Systems Command is seeking a dedicated Contract Specialist to join our mission-critical team in Point Mugu, California. This position utilizes the Science and Technology Reinvention Laboratory (STRL) direct hire authority to identify and acquire top-tier talent. As a specialist, you will be responsible for the full lifecycle of Department of Defense contract administration, ensuring fiscal responsibility, regulatory compliance, and mission success in a fast-paced environment.

Requirements for Contract Specialist

Must possess at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the DA-03 grade level or federal pay band.
Must hold a bachelor's degree with at least 24 semester hours in business, finance, accounting, law, contracts, or related fields.
Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
Must be able to navigate and utilize Department of Defense contract writing systems.
Strict adherence to submission guidelines, including a 2-page limit for resumes.

Preferred Qualifications for Contract Specialist

Demonstrated ability to perform complex cost and price analysis for government contracts.
Direct experience in negotiating terms, conditions, and pricing structures for large-scale federal acquisitions.
Familiarity with the Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act (DAWIA) requirements.
Proven track record of interpreting and applying complex Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR).

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary structure
✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options
✓Defined benefit retirement plans
✓Telework eligibility opportunities
✓Professional development and continuous learning support
✓Access to extensive federal training programs

💡 How to Apply Contract Specialist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Contract Specialist Job

Prepare a concise resume, strictly limited to two pages.
Ensure your resume includes clear dates, hours worked, and specific job series/grades for federal experience.
Gather necessary documentation, including unofficial transcripts for education requirements.
Submit your complete application package via email directly to the designated point of contact.
Verify that all attached files are legible and complete to avoid disqualification.

💡 General Tips

Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all essential federal data points are included.
Do not exceed the two-page limit; extra pages will not be reviewed.
Clearly highlight your experience in cost analysis and negotiation, as these are critical duties.
Double-check your email attachment before sending to ensure all supporting transcripts and certifications are included.
Redact sensitive PII (SSN, DOB) from documents before submitting, though keep original unredacted versions available if selected.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a permanent job opening?

This is a public notice flyer for anticipated vacancies. There may or may not be current vacancies to fill at this time, but submissions allow the agency to build a pool of qualified candidates.

What is the education requirement?

You must hold a 4-year degree and have completed 24 semester hours in fields such as accounting, business, finance, or contract law.

Can I apply via the USAJOBS portal?

No. Despite being listed on USAJOBS, applications must be submitted directly to the email address specified in the 'How to Apply' section of the announcement.

Job from Naval Air Systems Command

The Department of the Navy (DON) is one of the most prestigious employers in the federal government. By linking civilian expertise with military necessity, the DON fosters a culture of innovation and purpose. Working at the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) means being part of a team that develops, delivers, and sustains aircraft and weaponry. You will work in a collaborative, professional environment that values continuous learning and career advancement.