Become a Contract Specialist with the NGA: A Career of Impact

Are you looking to advance your career in federal contracting? The National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) is currently seeking talented, driven professionals to join their acquisition team. As a Contract Specialist, you will be the backbone of NGA operations, ensuring the agency has the tools, technology, and services necessary to protect the nation. This role is not just about paperwork; it is about strategic planning, negotiation, and high-level problem solving in the intelligence sector.

Job Responsibilities

As a Contract Specialist, you will perform a wide range of duties, including:

Developing acquisition strategies based on market research.
Conducting complex contract solicitations and evaluations.
Leading negotiations and awarding contracts for critical products and services.
Managing the administration of contracts, including cost analysis and performance monitoring.
Resolving high-impact issues and managing contract modifications.

Core Competency Comparison

Skill Category	Requirement Level	Description
Regulatory Knowledge	High	Deep understanding of FAR and supplements.
Technical Procurement	High	Experience with FFP, T&M, and IDIQ contracts.
Strategic Planning	Moderate	Leading market research and acquisition strategy.
Leadership	Moderate	Mentoring junior staff and inter-agency collaboration.

Requirements

To be considered, applicants must demonstrate substantial expertise. The position requires a bachelor's degree and extensive experience in contract management. Because of the nature of the NGA mission, candidates must also:

Be a U.S. citizen.
Hold or be able to obtain a Top Secret security clearance with SCI access.
Pass a Counterintelligence Polygraph and a drug screening.

Salary Overview

This position offers a highly competitive federal salary, ranging from $121,785 to $187,093 per year. Compensation is determined based on unique qualifications and placement within the NGA pay band structure.

Benefits

Beyond the salary, employees benefit from a robust federal package. This includes performance-based pay, potential recruitment incentives, and continuous professional development via DAWIA certification training.

Application Tips

Use the Resume Builder: NGA strictly requires the use of their online resume builder. Keep your content focused and within the 2-page limit.
Quantify Results: Don't just list tasks; provide examples of the contracts you managed, their complexity, and the positive outcomes achieved.
Stay Ready: Since this is an open continuous announcement, keep your profile updated so you are ready when the agency reviews the applicant pool.

Serving as a Contract Specialist at the NGA is a unique opportunity to apply your acquisition skills to a vital national mission. With high-end compensation, a dynamic work environment, and the opportunity for professional growth, this is an ideal role for established professionals in the 1102 series.

Why This Contract Specialist (Open Continuous) Job Matters

Join the mission-critical acquisition team at the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency and secure the future of global security.

Contract Specialist (Open Continuous) Job Overview

The National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) is seeking experienced Contract Specialists for an open continuous opportunity in Springfield, Virginia. This role is essential for procuring vital products and services that sustain NGA's intelligence mission. Selected candidates will manage the full lifecycle of complex contracts, from strategic acquisition planning and market research to contract award and administration. If you are a contracting professional eager to make an impact within the Department of Defense, this position offers a unique chance to shape acquisition outcomes in a high-stakes, collaborative environment.

Requirements for Contract Specialist (Open Continuous)

U.S. Citizenship
Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance with SCI access
Successful completion of a Counterintelligence Polygraph examination
Pass a drug test
Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
Demonstrated experience leading customer interactions for acquisition strategies
Proven experience in source selections, cost/price analysis, and contract negotiations
Proficiency with Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and supplements
Experience administering diverse contract types including FFP, T&M, and IDIQ
Experience mentoring junior contracting professionals

Preferred Qualifications for Contract Specialist (Open Continuous)

Familiarity with the DoD Source Selection Manual
Experience in Information Technology (IT) acquisitions, specifically agile software development
Demonstrated ability to implement creative acquisition solutions
Knowledge of Federal Appropriations Law
DAWIA Contracting Professional Certification or FAC-C Level II

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary structure
✓Performance-based pay increases and potential bonuses
✓Recruitment incentive packages for eligible candidates
✓Professional development through the Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act (DAWIA) program
✓Comprehensive federal benefits package

💡 How to Apply Contract Specialist (Open Continuous) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Contract Specialist (Open Continuous) Job

Visit the official NGA Careers Portal to initiate your application.
Utilize the mandatory NGA resume builder (maximum 2 pages).
Ensure your resume highlights specific, quantifiable examples related to the mandatory criteria.
Submit your application electronically before the closing date.
Monitor your status through the NGA online portal.

💡 General Tips

Focus your resume on impact: provide results-oriented bullet points for every duty listed.
Be specific regarding your experience with various contract types like FFP and IDIQ.
Proofread your application to ensure it strictly follows the two-page limit.
Apply early to ensure your profile is available when staffing needs arise.
Address the mandatory qualification criteria directly in your experience descriptions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an 'Open Continuous' job announcement?

This means there is no immediate vacancy. The NGA uses this announcement to maintain a pool of qualified candidates. Applications are reviewed as specific staffing needs arise.

Are there specific security requirements for this role?

Yes. This position requires a Top Secret/SCI security clearance and a successful Counterintelligence Polygraph. You will also be subject to periodic random testing.

Can I submit a traditional PDF resume?

No. Applicants must use the official NGA resume builder tool provided on the career portal.

Job from National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency

The National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency provides world-class geospatial intelligence that enables the U.S. government to make informed decisions. Operating under the Department of Defense, the NGA relies on a specialized workforce to procure the innovative solutions that keep the agency at the forefront of global security. Working at the NGA offers a mission-driven environment where your professional efforts have a clear, tangible impact on national safety.