Launch Your Federal Acquisition Career at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard

Are you a detail-oriented professional looking to make an impact in federal contracting? The Department of the Navy is currently seeking a highly motivated Contract Specialist to join the Nuclear & Shop Support Branch at the historic Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in Kittery, Maine.

Job Responsibilities

As a Contract Specialist, you will manage the lifecycle of complex procurement actions. Your key duties will include:

Reviewing procurement requests for sophisticated equipment and technical services.
Drafting comprehensive solicitation documents.
Negotiating contract modifications and terms with industry vendors.
Analyzing technical and financial risks to ensure the best value for the government.
Representing the command in high-level conferences with contractors and government entities.

Comparison: GS-07 vs GS-09 Requirements

Feature	GS-07 Requirements	GS-09 Requirements
Experience Level	1 year at GS-05 equivalent	1 year at GS-07 equivalent
Education Substitution	1 year graduate study	2 years graduate study or Master's
Proficiency	Basic regulatory application	Advanced regulatory application

Requirements & Qualifications

Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree and demonstrate specialized experience in federal contracting. You must be comfortable with automated procurement systems like the Procurement Desktop Defense System (SPS). Strong analytical skills, a knack for negotiation, and the ability to navigate complex acquisition laws are essential for success in this role.

Salary Overview

The position offers a competitive salary ranging from $57,150 to $90,882 annually, reflecting the critical nature of the work and the professional expertise required.

Benefits

Federal service provides unparalleled benefits, including:

Health and life insurance plans.
Participation in the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) for retirement security.
Paid federal holidays, annual leave, and sick leave.
Structured training programs to support your professional development.

Application Tips

To succeed, ensure your resume is concise (max 2 pages) and highlights your specific achievements in contract administration. Always include your pay plan, series, and grade for federal experience. Using the USAJOBS Resume Builder is the most effective way to ensure you meet all formatting requirements.

If you are ready to combine your analytical skills with a mission-driven career, this role at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard is the ideal next step. Prepare your application, ensure all documentation is accurate, and join the team that keeps our Navy ready.

Why This Contract Specialist Job Matters

Launch a high-impact career in federal acquisition at the prestigious Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, where your strategic procurement skills directly safeguard our national fleet.

Contract Specialist Job Overview

Join the Contracting Division at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard as a Contract Specialist. In this vital role, you will be the backbone of complex procurement processes, managing the lifecycle of contracts from solicitation and negotiation to final closeout. You will collaborate with industry partners, interpret federal regulations, and drive the acquisitions necessary to maintain naval readiness.

Requirements for Contract Specialist

U.S. Citizenship.
Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
One year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the next lower grade level.
Ability to interpret and apply federal contract laws, regulations, and procedures.
Demonstrated experience in analyzing cost, technical, and risk tradeoffs.
Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and automated procurement systems.
Successful background check for a Secret security clearance.
Completion of OGE-450 Financial Disclosure Report upon appointment.

Preferred Qualifications for Contract Specialist

Prior experience with Procurement Desktop Defense System (SPS).
Familiarity with Federal Procurement Data System - Next Generation (FPDS-NG).
Advanced degree or relevant graduate-level academic achievements.
Strong negotiation and technical writing skills related to acquisition strategies.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary structure.
✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
✓Federal retirement benefits including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
✓Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
✓Extensive professional development and training opportunities.
✓Potential for career advancement and promotion paths up to the GS-12 level.

💡 How to Apply Contract Specialist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Contract Specialist Job

Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a resume detailing specific job duties, pay plans, series, and grades.
Ensure resume is limited to 2 pages.
Gather supporting documents such as transcripts and SF-50s if applicable.
Complete the online application questionnaire before the closing date.
Submit all documentation via the online portal.

💡 General Tips

Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all mandatory federal information is included.
Be specific about your accomplishments and include hours worked per week for all positions.
Redact sensitive personal information like SSNs from supporting documents before uploading.
Verify that transcripts clearly show course titles, credits, and grades.
Double-check that all supporting documentation is legible to avoid automatic disqualification.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the promotion potential for this role?

While this announcement is for GS-07/09 levels, the position has a promotion potential to the GS-12 grade level.

Can I submit my resume via email?

No. All applications must be submitted through the official online application portal to be considered.

Is telework available?

Yes, this position is eligible for telework, subject to agency policy and supervisor approval.

What security clearance is required?

*A: This position requires a Secret security clearance.*

Is relocation reimbursement available?

*A: Yes, relocation incentives may be authorized depending on funding and eligibility.*

Job from United States Fleet Forces Command

The United States Fleet Forces Command and the broader Department of the Navy offer a dynamic environment where civilian expertise meets national security goals. Working at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard means contributing to the essential maintenance and repair of the U.S. Navy fleet, providing you with a career path characterized by purpose, stability, and professional growth.