Become a Senior Contract Specialist (GS-14) with the U.S. Coast Guard

Are you a high-level procurement professional looking to make a significant impact on national security? The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the U.S. Coast Guard are seeking an experienced Contract Specialist (GS-14) to join their mission-critical team in Washington, D.C. This role offers the unique opportunity to manage high-value acquisitions that directly support maritime and aviation readiness.

Job Responsibilities

As a Senior Contract Specialist, you will act as a consultant and liaison to top-tier management. Your key duties include:

Leading complex procurement actions for aviation and maritime supplies.
Managing full-cycle contract administration for large-scale systems.
Serving as the chief negotiator on high-value contract modifications.
Implementing and directing advanced cost and price analysis techniques.

Requirements

To qualify for this position, candidates must meet rigorous standards, including:

Education: A bachelor’s degree with 24+ hours in related business fields.
Experience: At least 4 years of experience, with 1 year at the GS-13 level or equivalent.
Clearance: Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
Compliance: Mandatory completion of agency-prescribed training.

Eligibility Comparison

Requirement	Junior Role	This GS-14 Role
Experience Level	Entry/Mid-Level	Senior Expert
Negotiation Role	Support	Lead Negotiator
Strategy Scope	Operational	High-Level Advisory

Salary Overview

The GS-14 pay scale for this position ranges from $143,913 to $187,093 annually. This competitive federal salary reflects the high level of responsibility and expertise required for this senior-level role.

Benefits

Employees of the DHS enjoy robust benefits, including:

Extensive health, vision, and dental insurance options.
Retirement savings via the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
Paid holidays and comprehensive leave benefits.
Professional development and tuition reimbursement.

Application Tips

Respect the Resume Limit: Keep your resume to exactly two pages or less.
Avoid AI-Generated Text: Use your own language in the assessment essay questions.
Detail Your Impact: Focus on quantifiable outcomes of your past negotiations and acquisitions.

Serving as a Contract Specialist for the U.S. Coast Guard is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the security and success of the United States. If you possess the experience and leadership drive required for this GS-14 role, we encourage you to apply today via USAJOBS.

Why This Contract Specialist Job Matters

Launch a high-impact career supporting U.S. Coast Guard maritime missions as a GS-14 Senior Contract Specialist.

Contract Specialist Job Overview

The U.S. Coast Guard is seeking a seasoned Contracting Officer to join the Director of Contracting and Procurement team in Washington, D.C. This pivotal GS-14 role involves managing complex procurement strategies, overseeing aviation-related acquisitions, and providing expert advisory services to ensure mission-readiness across maritime operations. You will serve as a lead negotiator for high-value, long-term systems and provide critical support for the security and protection of our national interests.

Requirements for Contract Specialist

U.S. Citizenship is strictly required.
Must be registered with or exempt from Selective Service.
Successful completion of a background investigation for a Secret clearance.
Mandatory completion of agency-prescribed contracting training.
Minimum 4 years of experience in contracting or related fields.
At least 1 year of specialized experience at the GS-13 level or equivalent.
Bachelor's degree with at least 24 semester hours in accounting, business, finance, law, contracts, or related fields.
Submission of transcripts is mandatory if qualifying via education.

Preferred Qualifications for Contract Specialist

Federal Acquisition Certification in Contracting Professional (FAC-C Professional).
Demonstrated ability to serve as a lead negotiator on large-scale service and systems acquisitions.
Deep expertise in cost and price analysis, including learning curve analysis and estimating relationships.
Experience providing senior-level advisory support to policy makers regarding procurement initiatives.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance.
✓Participation in the Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style retirement).
✓Generous paid federal holidays and personal leave accrual.
✓Flexible work schedules and telework opportunities.
✓Tuition reimbursement and professional development programs.
✓On-site fitness centers and health/wellness initiatives.
✓Transportation subsidies.

💡 How to Apply Contract Specialist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Contract Specialist Job

Create or update your USAJOBS profile.
Prepare a resume limited strictly to 2 pages (minimum 10pt font, 0.5-inch margins).
Submit your resume, transcripts, and required SF-50 forms through the USAJOBS portal.
Complete the required online assessment after submission (follow the unique link provided).
Respond thoughtfully to the four essay questions regarding your dedication to public service.
Monitor your status via the USAJOBS 'Track this application' feature.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume includes start/end dates (mm/yy) and hours worked per week for every entry.
Do not include personal information such as photos, DOB, or SSN on your resume.
Avoid copy-pasting duties from the job announcement; use your own words to describe your impact.
Double-check that all uploaded documents are legible and clearly labeled.
Set aside at least 3 hours for the USA Hire Assessment to ensure completion without interruption.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute my education for the experience requirement at the GS-14 level?

No, at the GS-14 grade level, specialized experience is mandatory and cannot be substituted by education alone.

Is this position eligible for remote work?

The position is telework-eligible, but it is not a fully remote position; local presence in Washington, D.C. is required.

What happens if my resume exceeds two pages?

Applications with resumes exceeding the two-page limit will be automatically disqualified from consideration.

What is the closing date?

The application window closes on October 12, 2026.

Is relocation assistance provided?

No, relocation benefits are not authorized for this position.

Job from U.S. Coast Guard

The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), a vital component of the Department of Homeland Security, is responsible for protecting American interests, securing maritime borders, and ensuring safety at sea. Working as a civilian within the Coast Guard means you are an essential part of a global team that protects the heartland and international waters.