Contract Specialist

Quick Facts

• Role level: Intermediate or Skill Level (NF-04)

• Focus: Pre-award and post-award contracting using simplified acquisition techniques

Description

Contract Specialist responsible for simplified acquisition contracting and procurement activities for non-appropriated fund (NAFI) purchases. Duties include preparing and issuing solicitations, negotiating awards (often for commercial off-the-shelf supplies and services), reviewing requirements packages for compliance, and performing contract administration through closeout. The role may include serving as a warranted Contracting Officer within prescribed authority limits and supporting development into higher levels.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and issue solicitations; negotiate contract awards for supplies and services using simplified acquisition methods.
• Review requirement packages for completeness, accuracy, and compliance with administrative, regulatory, and procedural requirements.
• Determine the most favorable procurement method and contract type for the NAFI.
• Evaluate bids/offers and prepare documentation supporting purchase decisions and contract awards.
• Maintain complete contract files; perform contract administration and closeout.
• Conduct job-site visits as needed for compliance checks; handle contract modifications, claims, excusable delays, and mutual mistakes.
• Monitor contractor performance for compliance with contract terms/specifications and coordinate with CORs when applicable.
• Provide guidance to customers/contractors on routine procurement questions and special procurement instructions.
• Use automated acquisition systems and Microsoft Office tools to track status and support management reporting.

Requirements

• Meet qualification/eligibility/background requirements for the position.
• Satisfactory completion of E-Verify; provide Direct Deposit and a Social Security Card upon appointment.
• Submit a Financial Disclosure Statement (OGE-450) upon entering the role and annually.
• Resume must be two pages (or less) with qualifications clearly verifiable; include required government details when applicable.
• At least 1 year of experience performing duties that demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed for the position.
• Intermediate level: knowledge of acquisition regulations and simplified acquisitions; apply simplified acquisition methods; evaluate offers for responsiveness, price reasonableness, and responsibility; basic knowledge of Government supply/service sources (including mandatory sources).
• Skill level (higher qualifications): experience with non-complex pre-award/post-award procurement; manage full source selection; technical writing for contracts/acquisition plans/source selection documentation; and contract administration experience to monitor performance and address issues (modifications, disputes, payments, performance).
• Effective communication to handle disagreements with tact and diplomacy.

Benefits

• Training, education, and certification programs for professional development.
• Eligibility for health and life insurance, 401(k), retirement plans, paid personal time off, and federal holidays for regular employees.
• Some flexible employee health and 401(k) eligibility may apply depending on status.
• Access to some on-base facilities such as fitness centers and libraries.