Lead Contract Specialist: Advancing National Security at DISA

Are you a high-level procurement professional ready to step into a leadership role that directly supports national defense? The Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) is currently hiring a Lead Contract Specialist in Fort Meade, Maryland. This role offers an opportunity to lead critical acquisition strategies, manage large-scale contracts, and mentor high-performing teams in a high-stakes environment.

Job Responsibilities

As a Lead Contract Specialist (GS-14), you will be the bridge between mission partners and acquisition execution. Key responsibilities include:

Leadership: Representing the team in high-level dealings with program management and mission partners.
Procurement Lifecycle: Overseeing the entire contracting process, from pre-solicitation documentation to award and final administration.
Strategic Oversight: Ensuring that organizational goals and work plans are effectively communicated and executed by team members.
Policy Implementation: Directing complex contract administration tasks while strictly adhering to procurement regulations.

Requirements

To be considered for this position, candidates must meet specific criteria:

Education: A Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
Experience: One year of specialized experience at the GS-13 level or equivalent, demonstrating deep knowledge of federal contracting.
Clearance: Ability to hold a Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) clearance.
Compliance: Successful completion of drug testing and financial disclosure (OGE Form 450).

Salary Overview

Pay Grade	Salary Range	Interval
GS-14	$143,913 – $187,093	Per Year

Benefits

DISA is recognized for its commitment to employee well-being and professional growth. Benefits include:

Flexible working options, including Maxi-flex and compressed 4x10 schedules.
Access to premier federal training programs.
Comprehensive health insurance and retirement plans.
A collaborative, mission-focused culture.

Application Tips

Standing out in a federal application process requires attention to detail.

Two-Page Limit: Ensure your resume is exactly two pages or fewer.
Clarity: Use clear, bulleted language that quantifies your accomplishments as a contract specialist.
Formatting: Follow the instructions to email your resume directly to the provided DISA mailbox with the correct reference number.

This role is more than just a job; it is a vital part of the military’s communication infrastructure. If you have the procurement expertise and the leadership skills to guide complex contracts for DISA, apply today to start your next career chapter at Fort Meade.

Why This Lead Contract Specialist Job Matters

Take command of critical defense acquisitions and shape the future of military communication infrastructure as a Lead Contract Specialist at DISA.

Lead Contract Specialist Job Overview

The Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) is seeking an experienced Lead Contract Specialist to join the Procurement Services Division in Fort Meade, Maryland. This high-impact role allows you to influence national security by overseeing complex acquisition strategies, managing mission-partner engagement, and leading a team through the full lifecycle of contract administration. If you are a seasoned contracting professional looking for a mission-driven environment that values leadership and innovation, this is your opportunity to serve.

Requirements for Lead Contract Specialist

U.S. Citizenship.
Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
One year of specialized experience at the GS-13 grade level (or equivalent).
Must be able to obtain and maintain a Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) security clearance.
Submission of a two-page maximum resume detailing specialized experience.
Must complete a Confidential Financial Disclosure Report (OGE Form 450).
Compliance with drug testing requirements as a condition of employment.

Preferred Qualifications for Lead Contract Specialist

Demonstrated ability to lead procurement teams and manage complex acquisition portfolios.
Exceptional communication skills for managing mission partner expectations.
Proven track record in navigating federal acquisition policies and regulations.
Strong analytical skills for evaluating contractor effectiveness and procurement operations.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive Federal Salary
✓Flexible work arrangements (Maxi-flex and compressed schedules)
✓Training and professional development programs
✓Comprehensive federal health and retirement benefits
✓Potential for relocation incentives

💡 How to Apply Lead Contract Specialist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Lead Contract Specialist Job

Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages.
Ensure your resume includes detailed job titles, duties, and specific start/end dates for all relevant experience.
Email your resume directly to the designated DISA mailbox provided in the job announcement.
Reference 'Announcement 13069410' in your correspondence.
Wait for a request for transcripts; do not submit them during the initial application phase.

💡 General Tips

Keep your resume strictly to the two-page limit to avoid immediate disqualification.
Use specific examples of how you have implemented acquisition procedures and managed contractor effectiveness.
Clearly highlight your GS-13 level experience to meet the specialized requirement.
Ensure your email clearly references the announcement number to avoid processing delays.
Apply early, as resumes may be reviewed on an ongoing basis.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the education requirement for this position?

A Bachelor's degree from an accredited educational institution is required. There is no substitution of education for specialized experience at the GS-14 level.

Is this a telework-eligible position?

Yes, telework eligibility is based on mission requirements and supervisory determination.

Do I need to submit my transcripts with my resume?

No. Please do not submit transcripts initially. They will be requested later in the process if you are selected for further consideration.

Can I use education to substitute for experience?

*A: No, at the GS-14 level, specialized experience is required and cannot be substituted with education.*

Is relocation assistance offered?

*A: Moving costs may be paid depending on the needs of the agency and individual eligibility.*

Job from Defense Information Systems Agency

The Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) is a combat support agency of the U.S. Department of Defense. DISA provides, operates, and assures command and control and information-sharing capabilities for the President, the Vice President, the Secretary of Defense, and the combatant commands. By joining DISA, you are entering an agency that sits at the intersection of technological innovation and military readiness.