Launch Your Career: Contract Specialist with the Florida National Guard

Are you looking for a career that combines professional growth with service to your community and country? The Florida National Guard is currently seeking a dedicated professional for a Contract Specialist (Title 5) position in St. Augustine, Florida. This is an exceptional opportunity for individuals with a background in business, project management, or finance to transition into or advance within the federal contracting sector.

Job Responsibilities

As a Contract Specialist, you will be responsible for planning and executing the procurement of a wide variety of goods and services. Your daily tasks will include:

Market Research: Analyzing market trends and commercial practices to identify potential sources for requirements.
Acquisition Planning: Collaborating with program managers, legal, and finance personnel to develop strategies and milestones.
Procurement Execution: Determining appropriate contracting methods and contract types to solve complex acquisition problems.
Compliance: Ensuring all contract actions adhere to federal regulations and guidelines.

Level	Experience Required	Growth Potential
GS-7	Entry-level / 1 year specialized	Up to GS-11
GS-9	Intermediate / 1 year at GS-7 level	Up to GS-11
GS-11	Journeyman / 1 year at GS-9 level	Target Level

Requirements

To be considered for this role, you must meet the following baseline criteria:

Education: A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution is mandatory.
Specialized Experience: Depending on the grade level, candidates must demonstrate relevant experience in business management, supply chain management, or contracting.
Documentation: Applicants must submit a two-page resume, relevant transcripts, and any applicable military documentation (SF-50, DD214).
Certification: Selected candidates must complete the Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act (DAWIA) Level I training within 36 months.

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary range of $50,460 to $97,087 per year. In addition to your salary, federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package, including:

Health, vision, and dental insurance options.
Retirement savings plans including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
Paid annual leave and federal holidays.
Extensive professional development and acquisition certification training.

Application Tips

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

Tailor Your Resume: Use your resume to map your past professional achievements to the duties listed in the announcement. Do not simply copy the specialized experience section.
Verify Education: Ensure your transcripts are ready, as proof of your degree is mandatory for this position.
Submit Early: Don't wait until the final hours on October 29, 2026. Technical issues can happen; submit your application package well in advance.

Is this position eligible for remote work?

No, this role requires physical presence at the USPFO facility in St. Augustine, FL.

Serving as a Contract Specialist with the Florida National Guard is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the mission of the Department of the Army. If you have the drive to succeed and the desire to serve, we invite you to apply. Start your journey today and help us procure the resources necessary to keep our state and nation safe.

Why This Contract Specialist (Title 5) Job Matters

Launch a impactful career in government contracting with the Florida National Guard and help shape the future of federal procurement.

Contract Specialist (Title 5) Job Overview

The Florida National Guard is seeking a motivated Contract Specialist to join the USPFO in St. Augustine, Florida. This Title 5 Excepted Service role is a unique professional development opportunity, offering multiple-level recruitment from GS-7 to GS-11. As a Contract Specialist, you will manage a wide variety of procurement requirements, conduct market research, and ensure regulatory compliance in support of critical Army National Guard missions.

Requirements for Contract Specialist (Title 5)

Must be a United States citizen.
Possession of a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
Ability to obtain and maintain DAWIA Level I certification within 36 months of placement.
Registration with the Military Selective Service Act for male applicants born after 12/31/1959.
Must submit a professional, two-page resume that details specific duties and dates of employment.
Must be capable of performing duties in potentially austere conditions during emergency recall operations.

Preferred Qualifications for Contract Specialist (Title 5)

Experience in business, finance, project management, or supply chain management.
Knowledge of Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) and regulatory compliance.
Demonstrated ability to collect, analyze, and communicate complex data effectively.
Previous experience with pre-award and post-award contract administration.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive Federal salary schedule (GS-7/9/11)
✓Comprehensive federal health and retirement benefits
✓Professional training and development through the Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act (DAWIA) program
✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives
✓Structured career ladder with promotion potential to GS-11

💡 How to Apply Contract Specialist (Title 5) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Contract Specialist (Title 5) Job

Create or update your profile on the USAJOBS portal.
Prepare a specialized two-page resume that explicitly highlights your relevant experience without copying the job announcement text.
Gather supporting documents including official transcripts, SF-50 forms, and DD-214 if applicable.
Complete the online application and the occupational questionnaire through the USAStaffing portal.
Submit your complete package by 11:59 PM (EST) on the closing date of October 29, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Do not copy and paste the job description text into your resume; provide concrete examples of your own experience.
Ensure your resume includes dates (month/year) for every role listed.
Double-check that all supporting documentation (transcripts, military forms) is uploaded before final submission.
Monitor your USAJOBS account regularly for status updates after the announcement closes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this position remote-eligible?

No, this position is based in St. Augustine, Florida, and is not listed as telework or remote eligible.

What if I do not have direct contracting experience?

This position uses multiple-level recruitment. If you possess relevant experience in business, finance, or project management and the required degree, you may be considered at the GS-7 level and provided with on-the-job training.

Is a security clearance required?

The position notes that a security clearance or background check of 'Other' type is required.

Can I apply if I don't have federal contracting experience?

Yes. Because this is a multi-level recruitment position, we are looking for transferrable skills in finance, business, and project management. Training will be provided to help you grow to the full journeyman level.

Job from Army National Guard Units

The Florida National Guard is a cornerstone of our national defense and local emergency response. As part of the Department of the Army, our employees provide vital support to the Governor of Florida and our neighbors during natural disasters, including hurricanes, wildfires, and floods. Working with the United States Property and Fiscal Office (USPFO), you will become part of a proud tradition of citizens dedicated to the collective defense and support of the state.