Launch Your Contracting Career with the Department of Transportation
Are you ready to shape the future of American transportation infrastructure? The Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation, an integral part of the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), is looking for a skilled Contract Specialist to join their team.
Position Comparison
| Feature | GS-09 Level | GS-11 Level |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Pre-award/Post-award support | Independent contract management |
| Experience | 1 year at GS-07 equivalent | 1 year at GS-09 equivalent |
| Education | Master's degree equivalent | Ph.D. level or 3 years grad school |
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will manage the acquisition lifecycle. Key tasks include:
- Developing acquisition plans and milestones.
- Drafting solicitation packages using FAR clauses.
- Analyzing complex cost data to ensure price reasonableness.
- Leading negotiations with vendors and contractors.
- Overseeing contract closeouts and modifications.
This position offers a rare chance to work on high-impact projects that directly improve national infrastructure. By bringing your expertise in procurement and your commitment to public service, you will help the DOT achieve its goals while growing your own career in a supportive, mission-focused environment.
Why This Contract Specialist - Direct Hire Job Matters
Take the helm of critical transportation infrastructure projects with the Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation—your career, modernized.
Contract Specialist - Direct Hire Job Overview
The Department of Transportation is seeking a dedicated Contract Specialist to join the Office of Financial Management, Procurement & Supply Division. This pivotal role manages the full lifecycle of complex contracts, from initial requirement analysis and market research to final closeout. You will play a vital role in supporting America's transportation infrastructure, ensuring projects are delivered with excellence, compliance, and efficiency.
Requirements for Contract Specialist - Direct Hire
- U.S. Citizenship or National status.
- Must meet specialized experience requirements equivalent to the GS-07 or GS-09 grade level.
- Completion of a 4-year bachelor's degree or 24 semester hours in relevant business fields (e.g., accounting, finance, law).
- Ability to complete a one-year probationary period.
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after 12/31/1959.
- Must be able to successfully complete a background security investigation.
Preferred Qualifications for Contract Specialist - Direct Hire
- Proven track record in administering contracts under FAR Parts 8, 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16.
- Experience with firm-fixed-price, time-and-materials, and cost-reimbursement contract types.
- Knowledge of interagency acquisitions, grants, and cooperative agreements.
- Advanced degree in a business-related field (Master's or Ph.D.).
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary
- ✓Comprehensive Health and Insurance Programs
- ✓Retirement Savings Plan (TSP)
- ✓Paid Leave (Annual and Sick)
- ✓Opportunities for Professional Growth
- ✓Telework eligibility
💡 How to Apply Contract Specialist - Direct Hire Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Contract Specialist - Direct Hire Job
- Create a profile on USAJobs and upload your resume and supporting documents.
- Select the 'Apply Online' link on the official announcement page.
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire.
- Submit your application and verify that all documents have been attached correctly before the deadline.
- Monitor your status through the 'My USAJobs' portal.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to the 2-page limit; HR will not review pages beyond this.
- Use paragraph format for your narrative and ensure your employment dates, hours, and grades are clearly stated.
- If using education to qualify, ensure your transcripts are uploaded to verify the required credit hours.
- For federal applicants, combine your SF-50s into one PDF to prove your 52-week time-in-grade requirement.
- Review your application thoroughly to ensure all requirements are supported by your attached documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work remotely?
This position is telework eligible, but it is not a fully remote role. Specific requirements regarding on-site presence will be discussed during the hiring process.
What happens after I apply?
Your application undergoes a two-phase review: an initial HR screening for technical qualifications followed by a Subject Matter Expert review. If selected for an interview, you will be contacted directly.
What is the 'Direct Hire' authority?
This authority allows the agency to expedite the hiring process by appointing candidates directly to positions without the standard competitive service procedures.
Job from Great Lakes Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation
The Department of Transportation is committed to maintaining the safest, most efficient transportation systems in the world. From modernizing infrastructure to fostering technological innovation, the DOT works to support American families and businesses. As a Contract Specialist, you aren't just filing paperwork; you are participating in a mission to build a Golden Age of Transportation.