Become a Program Analyst (Acquisitions) with the U.S. Courts

Are you an expert in IT procurement and contract management? The Administrative Office (AO) of the U.S. Courts is looking for a strategic thinker to join their Vendor Management Branch. This position offers the rare opportunity to support the judicial branch of the federal government by ensuring the efficiency and integrity of national IT acquisitions.

Job Responsibilities

As a Program Analyst (Acquisitions), your daily activities will include:

Serving as a Contracting Officer's Representative (COR) for IT hardware and cloud services.
Developing and reviewing Statements of Work (SOW) and other solicitation documents.
Conducting market research and independent cost estimates.
Managing software license agreement lifecycles.
Collaborating with technical advisory groups to define enterprise hardware needs.

Requirements

Candidates must demonstrate one year of specialized experience in federal IT contracting and financial analysis. Additional requirements include:

U.S. Citizenship documentation.
Successful completion of a public trust suitability check.
Ability to provide proof of prior federal service (SF-50) if applicable.

Comparison Table: Qualifications

Feature	Required	Preferred
Experience	1 Year Specialized	Multi-year federal procurement
Education	Not Required	Degree in Finance/IT
Security	Public Trust	Higher clearance helpful

Salary Overview

This role is compensated within a broad-banded system with a salary range of $102,415 to $191,965 per year, depending on the applicant's experience and qualifications.

Benefits

Employees of the AO enjoy a robust benefits package, including federal health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).

Application Tips

Keep your resume concise; it must be under two pages.
Detail your specific contributions to federal IT contract management.
Verify that your responses in the occupational questionnaire mirror the content of your resume.

Join a mission-driven organization where your expertise in acquisitions and contracts directly supports the administration of justice in the United States.

Why This Program Analyst (Acquisitions) Job Matters

Advance your federal career as a Program Analyst (Acquisitions) and shape the future of technology within the U.S. Federal Judiciary.

Program Analyst (Acquisitions) Job Overview

The Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts is seeking a dedicated Program Analyst (Acquisitions) to join the Chief Information Officer's team. This role is central to managing the procurement and lifecycle of national IT hardware, software, and cloud service contracts. As a key advisor, you will guide program managers through complex acquisitions, ensure contract compliance as a Contracting Officer's Representative (COR), and directly influence the technological capabilities that support the federal court system.

Requirements for Program Analyst (Acquisitions)

At least one full year (52 weeks) of specialized experience related to the duties of this position.
Proven experience managing federal IT contracts.
Demonstrated ability to develop, review, and justify resource requirements for complex programs.
Proficiency in accounting/finance and analytical software tools.
Must be a U.S. citizen or otherwise authorized for employment.
Ability to pass a fingerprint-based national criminal record check and public trust suitability review.
Must be willing to undergo an E-Verify employment check.

Preferred Qualifications for Program Analyst (Acquisitions)

Prior experience serving as a Contracting Officer's Representative (COR).
Extensive background in managing software license agreements.
Expertise in procurement strategies and source selection panel participation.
Ability to work effectively with cross-functional technical and financial stakeholders.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary structure
✓Comprehensive federal health and insurance programs
✓Retirement planning and savings options
✓Paid time off and federal holidays
✓Opportunities for professional development within the judicial branch
✓Telework eligibility as per agency policy

💡 How to Apply Program Analyst (Acquisitions) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Program Analyst (Acquisitions) Job

Prepare a resume not exceeding two pages, explicitly stating your citizenship.
Gather your most recent SF-50 if you are a current or former federal employee.
Create or log into your USAJOBS profile.
Complete the online application and answer the occupational questionnaire.
Submit all required documents before the closing date of November 3, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume clearly highlights your experience with federal IT contracts.
Be specific about your role as a COR or similar oversight function.
Check that your questionnaire responses are fully supported by the narrative in your resume.
Submit your documents well before the deadline to allow time for system processing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary focus of this role?

The role focuses on the acquisition of IT services, hardware, and especially software license agreements, acting as a liaison between program offices and contracting teams.

Is a security clearance required?

No, a formal security clearance is not required; however, you must pass a public trust suitability check and an FBI fingerprint-based records check.

Does this job allow for remote work?

Telework is available per agency guidelines, but the position is based in Washington, D.C.

Is a degree required?

No, education is not a mandatory requirement, provided you have the requisite professional experience.

Job from Administrative Office Of The U.S. Courts

The Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts is the central support agency for the federal judiciary. Our mission is to ensure the efficient operation of the courts by providing technology, legal, and financial services that allow the third branch of government to function independently and effectively.