Advance Your Career as a Contract Specialist with the U.S. Coast Guard
Are you a seasoned procurement professional looking to make a significant impact on national security? The U.S. Coast Guard is currently accepting applications for a GS-14 Contract Specialist based in Elizabeth City, North Carolina. This high-level position offers the chance to manage vital aviation contracts that support the operational readiness of our maritime forces.
About the U.S. Coast Guard and DHS
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is dedicated to protecting American interests, securing borders, and ensuring the resilience of our infrastructure. As a member of the Coast Guard team, you become part of an elite force dedicated to maritime safety and national security. This role at the Aviation Logistics Center (ALC) is pivotal in ensuring that aircraft maintenance and parts procurement are executed efficiently to meet mission targets.
Key Responsibilities
In this role, you will act as a Contracting Officer with comprehensive responsibility for:
- Planning and executing complex contractual actions.
- Serving as a senior consultant to top-level management.
- Leading negotiations for major acquisitions and systems modifications.
- Providing expert advice on new contracting initiatives.
Requirements and Qualifications
To be considered, applicants must meet specific federal standards, including:
- U.S. Citizenship.
- A bachelor’s degree with 24 hours of business-related coursework.
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-13 level.
- Passing a background investigation.
Comparison Table: Qualifications
| Qualification Type | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Grade Level | GS-14 |
| Education | Bachelor's + 24 Business Credits |
| Experience | 1 Year at GS-13 level |
| Assessment | USA Hire Required |
Salary and Benefits
The salary range for this position is $127,646 to $165,945 annually. Employees enjoy a robust benefits package, including:
- Competitive insurance plans (Health, Dental, Vision).
- Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) for retirement.
- Paid holidays and personal time off.
- Tuition reimbursement and developmental training.
Application Tips
- Resume Length: Keep your resume strictly to two pages or less.
- Transcripts: Submit transcripts even if they are unofficial to avoid immediate disqualification.
- Assessments: Allocate time to complete the USA Hire assessments after submission.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How do I prove my specialized experience? A: Your resume must clearly detail duties that demonstrate expertise in contracting laws, negotiation strategies, and cost analysis.
Q: What if I have foreign education? A: You must provide evidence that your degree is equivalent to a U.S. institution via a credentialing service.
This is a unique opportunity to serve your country in a senior procurement role. If you meet the qualifications and are ready for a challenge, submit your application before the closing date. Join the U.S. Coast Guard and help safeguard our nation’s maritime interests.
Why This Contract Specialist Job Matters
Elevate your federal career as a senior Contract Specialist with the U.S. Coast Guard, where your expertise in procurement directly supports our nation's aviation readiness and maritime security.
Contract Specialist Job Overview
The U.S. Coast Guard is seeking a high-level Contract Specialist (GS-14) to join the ALC Contracting Office in Elizabeth City, North Carolina. In this critical role, you will lead the planning and execution of complex procurement actions for aviation-related supplies and services, ensuring the reliability of aircraft parts and mission-critical systems. This position offers the opportunity to serve as a senior consultant to leadership while managing high-stakes contract negotiations.
Requirements for Contract Specialist
- U.S. Citizenship
- Must be registered with or exempt from Selective Service
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-13 level or equivalent
- Bachelor's degree with at least 24 semester hours in business, finance, law, or related fields
- Completion of mandatory agency training for GS-14 level contracting
- Must pass a background investigation
- Successful completion of required USA Hire Assessments
Preferred Qualifications for Contract Specialist
- Demonstrated ability to perform cost and price analysis using advanced techniques
- Proven experience as a lead negotiator for major systems acquisitions
- Expertise in pre-award and post-award contract administration
- Strong communication skills for liaison work with top management officials
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
- âś“Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style retirement)
- âś“Flexible Spending Accounts
- âś“Paid federal holidays and personal leave
- âś“Employee Assistance Program
- âś“Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities
- âś“Potential for flexible work schedules
đź’ˇ How to Apply Contract Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Contract Specialist Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS account profile
- Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to 2 pages (minimum 10pt font, 0.5-inch margins)
- Collect necessary supporting documents, including transcripts and SF-50s if applicable
- Submit your application online via the USAJOBS portal by the deadline
- Complete the required USA Hire Assessments upon receiving the link via email
- Monitor your application status through the USAJOBS dashboard
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes specific start/end dates and hours worked per week for each position.
- Do not include personal information like your SSN, DOB, or photos on your resume.
- Be prepared to complete the 3-hour assessment—you can start, stop, and resume as needed.
- Submit your unofficial transcripts early to avoid disqualification.
- Review your application thoroughly; HR will not modify or correct documents after submission.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the education requirement for this role?
You must hold a bachelor's degree that includes or is supplemented by 24 semester hours in relevant business fields such as accounting, law, or contracts.
Can I use volunteer experience to qualify?
Yes, both paid and unpaid/volunteer experience are credited toward your specialized experience if they provide the necessary competencies.
Is telework available?
Yes, this position is telework eligible.