Launch Your Federal Career as a Contract Specialist with U.S. Cyber Command
The Department of the Army is currently seeking a highly motivated and skilled Contract Specialist to join the U.S. Cyber Command (J9) team in Columbia, Maryland. This role offers a unique opportunity to work within the Cyber Excepted Service (CES), an agile personnel system designed to support the nation's most critical cyber initiatives. If you are looking to apply your procurement expertise to a mission that matters, this position offers both professional challenge and significant responsibility.
Job Responsibilities
As a Contract Specialist, you will act as a business advisor, navigating complex procurement cycles. Your primary duties will include:
- Strategic Planning: Designing approaches for a wide range of supplies and services that adapt to emerging rapid acquisition processes.
- Pre-Award Activities: Conducting in-depth market research and drafting solicitation packages that comply with rigorous federal standards.
- Negotiations: Serving as a lead negotiator for technical requirements, pricing, and contract terms.
- Administration: Overseeing post-award performance to ensure contractor compliance and evaluating special provisions such as cost incentives.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, applicants must meet specific federal criteria:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Education | Bachelor's Degree or higher |
| Security Clearance | Top Secret SCI (Polygraph required) |
| Specialized Experience | 1 year of experience in the 1102 contracting field |
Salary Overview
The position offers a competitive salary range of $121,785 to $166,440 per year, which includes applicable locality pay. This compensation reflects the high level of responsibility and the specialized nature of the CES program.
Benefits
Federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package that promotes work-life balance and long-term financial security. This includes:
- Health and Life Insurance programs.
- Generous retirement options.
- Opportunities for career mobility within the Department of Defense.
- Potential for relocation assistance (PCS) based on organizational need.
Application Tips
Navigating USAJobs can be complex. Keep these tips in mind to maximize your chances:
- Be Detailed: Since this is a CES position, provide a full, detailed resume that captures your specialized experience. Do not adhere to the two-page limit.
- Use Plain Language: Avoid complex acronyms that a human resources specialist may not immediately recognize.
- Include Hours: Clearly state the number of hours worked per week for every position listed in your work history.
- Proof of Eligibility: Ensure you include all necessary documents (transcripts, licenses, veteran status) at the time of submission.
This role as a Contract Specialist with U.S. Cyber Command is more than just a job; it is a critical contribution to the defense of our nation's cyber infrastructure. If you meet the qualifications and are eager to work at the intersection of business strategy and national defense, we encourage you to submit your application by the October 29, 2026, deadline.
Why This Contract Specialist Job Matters
Launch a high-impact career in federal acquisition at the heart of national defense operations with U.S. Cyber Command.
Contract Specialist Job Overview
The U.S. Cyber Command (USCYBERCOM) is seeking a dedicated Contract Specialist to join the J9 directorate in Columbia, Maryland. This role is a vital component of the DoD Cyber Excepted Service (CES), responsible for managing end-to-end acquisition strategies for complex programs and services. As a key business advisor, you will negotiate critical contracts, ensure regulatory compliance, and support the total force mission of the Department of the Army.
Requirements for Contract Specialist
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret SCI (Polygraph) security clearance.
- Bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited educational institution.
- One year of specialized experience in the contracting career field.
- Must complete a 3-year probationary period.
- Must file a Confidential Financial Disclosure Report (OGE450).
- Must meet the requirements outlined in DoDM 8140.03 for cyberspace workforce qualification.
Preferred Qualifications for Contract Specialist
- Extensive experience in implementing rapid acquisition strategies.
- Demonstrated ability to lead complex negotiations independently.
- In-depth knowledge of cost and price analysis techniques for diverse commodities.
- Expertise in post-award contract administration and performance management.
- Experience serving as a primary point of contact for complex procurement advisory services.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with locality pay
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
- ✓Relocation/PCS assistance may be authorized for qualified candidates
- ✓Comprehensive federal benefits package
- ✓Telework eligibility
💡 How to Apply Contract Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Contract Specialist Job
- Log in to or create a USAJOBS account.
- Review the full job announcement and required documents checklist.
- Complete the online questionnaire via the provided link.
- Upload a comprehensive resume (no page limit for CES positions) and all required supporting documents.
- Verify that your application status shows as submitted before the October 29, 2026 deadline.
💡 General Tips
- Do not include classified information in any part of your application.
- Use plain language in your resume and avoid obscure acronyms.
- Ensure your resume explicitly details the number of hours worked per week for each job entry.
- If applying using education, ensure your transcripts are uploaded as a separate document.
- Double-check your application for completeness before the system processes the virus scan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Cyber Excepted Service (CES)?
CES is a personnel system under 10 USC 1599f designed to provide the DoD with more flexibility in hiring and managing personnel who support cyber operations and missions.
Is a security clearance required?
Yes, this position requires you to obtain and maintain a Top Secret SCI security clearance with polygraph.
Can I use a two-page resume for this application?
Because this is a CES position, the standard two-page resume limit does not apply. You are encouraged to submit a full, detailed resume that captures your specialized experience.
What happens after I submit my application?
*A: Your application will be evaluated for eligibility and qualifications. If you are found qualified, you will move forward in the ranking process. You can monitor your status via your USAJobs dashboard.*
Is telework available?
*A: Yes, this position is telework-eligible. Specific details will be discussed upon hiring.*
Job from Joint Activities
U.S. Cyber Command is responsible for planning, coordinating, integrating, and conducting operations to protect and defend the nation's critical infrastructure and information networks. Civilian employees are the backbone of this mission, providing essential skills that bridge the gap between military operational needs and sustainable acquisition strategies. By joining this team, you become a valued member of the 'Total Army,' contributing to national security through technical and administrative excellence.