Launch Your Federal Contracting Career with the U.S. Coast Guard

Are you a professional with a passion for procurement, negotiation, and strategic acquisition? The U.S. Coast Guard is offering a high-impact opportunity for a Contract Specialist to support the C5I Program Executive Office in Alexandria, Virginia. This role is perfect for detail-oriented individuals who want to apply their financial and business acumen to support a vital national mission.

Job Responsibilities

As a Contract Specialist, you will serve as a key advisor for the C5I-PEO acquisition community. Your daily work will involve:

Cradle-to-Grave Contracting: Managing the full lifecycle of complex contracts.
Strategic Negotiation: Leading negotiation positions and ensuring regulatory compliance.
Market Analysis: Conducting research to evaluate risks and program objectives.
Technical Consulting: Serving as an expert resource for the Contracting Officer on sophisticated acquisition questions.

Comparison of Grade Levels

Feature	GS-11	GS-12
Experience Level	Minimum 1 year at GS-09 equivalent	Minimum 1 year at GS-11 equivalent
Complexity	Intermediate	Advanced/Sophisticated
Promotion Potential	To GS-12	Target Grade

Requirements

To be considered for this role, you must meet the basic educational requirements—typically a bachelor’s degree or 24 semester hours in relevant business fields. Additionally, you must be a U.S. citizen, be registered with the Selective Service, and successfully pass a background check. Remember, your resume must be no more than two pages.

Salary Overview

This position is structured to reward expertise, with a competitive annual salary range of $85,447 to $133,142, commensurate with your grade level and experience.

Benefits

Working for the DHS provides access to a robust benefits package, including:

Health, dental, and vision insurance
Retirement savings via the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)
Paid federal holidays and personal leave
Professional development and training programs

Application Tips

Format Matters: Ensure your resume is exactly two pages or fewer.
Documentation: Have your unofficial transcripts ready to upload.
Stay Responsive: If you receive an assessment invitation, complete it within 48 hours.

This role offers more than just a paycheck; it offers a chance to contribute to the security and success of the United States. If you meet the qualifications, prepare your documentation and apply today to become a valued member of the Coast Guard team.

Why This Contract Specialist Job Matters

Launch your career in federal acquisition and play a vital role in safeguarding national maritime interests with the U.S. Coast Guard.

Contract Specialist Job Overview

The U.S. Coast Guard is seeking a dedicated Contract Specialist to join the C5I Program Executive Office in Alexandria, Virginia. This position offers a unique opportunity to manage high-impact acquisition programs from cradle to grave, providing critical business advice and technical guidance to support the Coast Guard's mission-essential operations. This role is open to the public and offers a clear path for professional growth and mission-driven public service.

Requirements for Contract Specialist

U.S. Citizenship
Registration with the Selective Service (if applicable)
Ability to pass a background investigation
Possession of a Bachelor’s degree OR at least 24 semester hours in business, finance, accounting, law, or related fields
One year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level
Direct deposit for federal salary payments
Submission of a resume no longer than 2 pages

Preferred Qualifications for Contract Specialist

Advanced graduate education in business, contracts, or related fields
Experience with complex cost and financial analysis
Demonstrated ability to lead negotiation positions for large-scale programs
Background in federal acquisition and contract administration

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent) with government matching
✓Generous paid federal holidays and personal leave
✓Flexible work arrangements and tuition reimbursement programs
✓Fitness center access and wellness initiatives

💡 How to Apply Contract Specialist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Contract Specialist Job

Create or update your USAJOBS profile.
Prepare a resume that is strictly 2 pages or less.
Gather transcripts and required SF-50 forms if you are a current or former federal employee.
Submit your application through the official portal before the closing date.
Monitor your email for a potential assessment invitation and complete it within the 48-hour deadline.

💡 General Tips

Keep your resume concise; any submission over 2 pages will automatically disqualify you.
Tailor your resume to highlight your experience with contract negotiation and acquisition strategies.
Ensure your transcripts clearly show course titles and credit hours.
Do not include personal information like your date of birth, SSN, or photos on your resume.
Complete the assessment as soon as you receive the link to avoid technical delays.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I submit a resume longer than 2 pages?

No, applications with resumes exceeding 2 pages will be removed from consideration.

Is a security clearance required for this position?

No, this specific role does not require a security clearance, but you must pass a suitability background investigation.

Can I use AI to write my application responses?

No, you must certify that your application responses are written in your own words without the assistance of AI tools.

Is relocation assistance provided?

*A: Relocation expenses are generally not provided unless specified and approved per regulation.*

What is the C5I Program?

*A: The C5I Program pertains to Command, Control, Communications, Computer, Cyber, and Intelligence systems used by the Coast Guard.*

Job from U.S. Coast Guard

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the U.S. Coast Guard serve on the front lines of national security. From safeguarding our ports and maritime borders to ensuring global maritime safety, the Coast Guard relies on expert civilian professionals to manage the complex contracts that make these missions possible.