Launch Your Federal Career as a Contract Specialist with ICE
Are you a procurement professional looking to make a meaningful impact? The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is hiring experienced Contract Specialists to support the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) mission. These roles are critical to the operational success of the agency.
Job Responsibilities
As a GS-12 Contract Specialist, you will oversee the full acquisition lifecycle. Key responsibilities include:
- Providing expert guidance to stakeholders throughout the acquisition process.
- Developing solicitations and evaluation criteria for complex requirements.
- Analyzing costs and prices to ensure taxpayer value.
- Managing post-award administration through to contract closeout.
Qualification Comparison
| Feature | Requirement Details |
|---|---|
| Experience | 1 Year of GS-11 equivalent experience |
| Education | Bachelor's Degree or 24 credits in relevant fields |
| Certification | Current FAC-C (Professional) or equivalent |
| Documents | 2-page resume + Transcripts + Certs |
Requirements
To qualify, applicants must meet specific federal standards. This includes demonstrating one year of specialized experience in federal contracting, performing tasks like price analysis and contract negotiation. Additionally, all applicants must possess an active Contracting Professional Certification.
Benefits and Salary
These positions offer a competitive salary range of $89,508 to $133,142, depending on location. Federal benefits include extensive health coverage, retirement planning, and student loan repayment options.
Application Tips
Your application packet is your first interview. Ensure your 2-page resume is precise and highlights your achievements rather than just listing job descriptions. Always include your certification proof, as failure to do so will lead to disqualification.
Can I use AI to write my application responses?
No. You must certify that your application responses are original and created without the assistance of LLMs or AI tools.
If you have the technical expertise and a desire to serve, we encourage you to apply. This role offers unparalleled professional growth and the chance to contribute to national security.
Why This Contract Specialist Job Matters
Launch a mission-critical career in government contracting with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Contract Specialist Job Overview
The Department of Homeland Security's Office of Acquisition Management is seeking skilled Contract Specialists to join our dynamic team. As a vital member of the agency, you will manage complex procurement lifecycles, ensuring the mission-critical needs of ICE are met through expert oversight, negotiation, and strategic contract administration.
Requirements for Contract Specialist
- U.S. Citizenship.
- A bachelor's degree or 24 semester hours in relevant business fields (accounting, finance, law, etc.).
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-11 grade level (or equivalent).
- Current possession of a FAC-C (Professional), Legacy FAC-C, or DAWIA Contracting Certification.
- Submission of a concise 2-page resume.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment drug test and background investigation.
Preferred Qualifications for Contract Specialist
- Extensive experience in cost and price analysis for federal contracts.
- Proven track record in developing negotiation strategies for complex solicitations.
- Strong proficiency in managing post-award contract actions.
- Demonstrated ability to handle high-volume procurement workloads efficiently.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- ✓Federal retirement pension and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) matching.
- ✓Flexible work schedules and telework opportunities.
- ✓Tuition reimbursement and professional development programs.
- ✓Paid federal holidays and generous personal leave accrual.
- ✓Student loan repayment incentives (where applicable).
💡 How to Apply Contract Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Contract Specialist Job
- Create a profile on the USAJOBS portal.
- Submit your 2-page resume, transcripts, and proof of certification.
- Complete the required online assessment questionnaire.
- Participate in the mandatory USA Hire competency assessment if notified.
- Monitor your status through your USAJOBS account dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to 2 pages; additional pages will not be reviewed.
- Be specific about your accomplishments; avoid copying and pasting duties directly from the announcement.
- Ensure your professional certifications are clearly attached to your application.
- Set aside roughly two hours to complete the USA Hire assessment thoroughly.
- Double-check that all contact information and employment dates (MM/YY) are accurate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply if I do not have a Contracting certification?
No, this position requires specific professional contracting certifications (FAC-C or equivalent) to be held at the time of application.
What happens if I submit a resume longer than two pages?
Per the announcement, only the first two pages of your submitted resume will be evaluated.
Are these positions remote?
These roles are not designated as remote, though they may be eligible for telework arrangements.
Do I need to be a current federal employee?
No, these positions are open to the public.
Job from Immigration And Customs Enforcement
ICE is the second-largest investigative agency within the federal government. Tasked with protecting the U.S. from cross-border crime and ensuring public safety, ICE maintains a massive infrastructure. The Office of Acquisition Management is the backbone of these efforts, ensuring the agency has the supplies and services necessary to succeed.