Become a Contracting Officer Representative at the Missile Defense Agency
Are you looking to pivot your career toward a mission-critical role that supports national security? The Missile Defense Agency (MDA) is currently accepting applications for a Contracting Officer Representative (COR) at Redstone Arsenal, Alabama. This role is essential to ensuring that our nation's defense technology remains the most advanced in the world.
About the Missile Defense Agency
The Missile Defense Agency is a research, development, and procurement agency within the Department of Defense. Its primary objective is to develop and field a layered ballistic missile defense system capable of intercepting enemy missiles in all phases of flight. Employees at the MDA work on some of the most significant technological projects in history, providing them with unparalleled career satisfaction and professional growth.
Job Responsibilities
As a Contracting Officer Representative, you will act as the eyes and ears of the government. Your primary duties include:
- Contract Oversight: Inspecting and verifying contractor work, deliverables, and invoices to ensure compliance with contract terms.
- Issue Resolution: Serving as a liaison between contractors and the Contracting Officer to resolve performance hurdles.
- Documentation: Maintaining rigorous file systems for all acquisition phases, from pre-award planning to contract close-out.
- Performance Evaluation: Providing data for the Contractor Performance Assessment Reporting (CPAR) system.
- Briefings: Communicating status updates and project milestones to agency leadership.
Requirements
Candidates must demonstrate specialized experience equivalent to the NH-02/GS-11 level. Key requirements include:
- Proven experience in managing major Defense Acquisition Programs.
- Ability to coordinate multi-discipline teams.
- Proficiency in drafting acquisition documentation.
- Strong communication and analytical problem-solving skills.
| Feature | Requirement Detail |
|---|---|
| Work Schedule | Full-Time |
| Security Clearance | Secret |
| Drug Testing | Required |
| Travel | Required as needed |
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive salary range of $93,216 to $144,102 per year. Beyond the salary, employees enjoy the standard federal benefits package, including health and life insurance, the Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent), and generous leave accrual.
Application Tips
Because this is a competitive federal role, following instructions is paramount. Your resume must be no longer than two pages and saved in PDF format. Pay close attention to the font and margin requirements to avoid immediate disqualification. Ensure your experience descriptions match the competencies listed in the job announcement.
The opportunity to work for the Missile Defense Agency is a chance to contribute directly to the safety of our country. If you possess the experience and drive to oversee complex acquisition projects, we encourage you to submit your application through the USAJOBS portal before the deadline.
Why This Contracting Officer Representative Job Matters
Join the forefront of national security and help shape the future of missile defense at the Missile Defense Agency.
Contracting Officer Representative Job Overview
The Missile Defense Agency (MDA) is seeking a motivated Contracting Officer Representative (COR) to join their team in Redstone Arsenal, Alabama. This role is pivotal in managing complex defense acquisition programs, ensuring contractor compliance, and verifying the delivery of critical defense products and services. You will serve as the primary liaison between the government and contractors, playing a key role in the development and deployment of a layered ballistic missile defense system designed to protect the United States and its allies.
Requirements for Contracting Officer Representative
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the NH-02/GS-11 grade level.
- Must meet at least 3 of the 5 specialized experience criteria: supporting major Defense Acquisition Programs; coordinating multi-discipline teams; drafting acquisition artifacts; strong communication skills; or providing innovative solutions to acquisition problems.
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
- Must pass a pre-employment drug screening.
- Ability to achieve DoD Acquisition Program Management Practitioner certification within 60 months of appointment.
- Resume must not exceed two pages and must be submitted in PDF format.
Preferred Qualifications for Contracting Officer Representative
- Proven track record in contract administration, including post-award oversight and invoice verification.
- Experience with the Wide Area Work Flow (WA-WF) system.
- Familiarity with Government Contractor Performance Assessment Reporting (CPAR) systems.
- Strong understanding of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and its supplements.
- Experience in supporting award fee boards and contract close-out processes.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary
- ✓Comprehensive Health Insurance
- ✓Life and Long-term Care Insurance
- ✓Retirement Savings Plan (TSP)
- ✓Paid Time Off and Federal Holidays
- ✓Telework Opportunities
💡 How to Apply Contracting Officer Representative Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Contracting Officer Representative Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full vacancy announcement for detailed documentation requirements.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages (PDF format).
- Submit your application through the official portal before the closing date.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS Application Status page.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume specifically highlights the specialized experience listed in the announcement.
- Double-check that your resume is in PDF format, does not exceed two pages, and uses at least 10-point font.
- Clearly label any military spouse or veteran preference documents if applicable.
- Submit early to avoid technical issues as the closing deadline approaches.
- Use the provided questionnaire to ensure all eligibility criteria are addressed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the education requirement for this position?
For this specific grade level, specialized experience is required, and education cannot be substituted in lieu of this experience.
Is telework available for this role?
Yes, this position is telework eligible, subject to agency policy.
Do I need an active security clearance to apply?
The position requires a Secret clearance. While it is preferred to have one, applicants must demonstrate the ability to obtain and maintain it.
What is the certification requirement?
You must be willing to earn the DoD Acquisition Program Management Practitioner certification within 60 months of being hired.
Is relocation assistance provided?
Relocation expenses are not covered for this position.