About the opportunity
You will serve as a Contract Specialist in the Procurement Group of the Naval Air Systems Command. Major duties include preparing and conducting major project contract negotiations, analyzing cost and price data, maintaining liaison with Administrative Contracting Officers and technical representatives, and ensuring the acquisition of required weapons systems at fair and reasonable prices. This role involves leading teams in planning, advertising, and awarding procurements, and requires a thorough understanding of contracting policies and regulations. The position may be used to make multiple selections across various organizational codes.
Salary and benefits
- Salary range: $143,913 – $187,760 per annum
- Potential for recruitment incentives or relocation expense reimbursement depending on funding availability and policy
- Federal employment benefits package
Who can apply?
- Must be a U.S. citizen
- Must possess at least one year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the NH-03/GS-12/13 grade level
- Must meet Department of Defense qualification requirements for 1102 contracting positions
- Must meet Title 10 requirements for contracting positions
- Must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited educational institution
- Must pass USA Hire competency-based assessments
Required documents
- Complete resume (maximum 2 pages)
- Official or unofficial transcripts supporting education claims
- SF-50(s) for current or former federal employees to verify time-in-grade and promotion eligibility
- DD-214 or other documentation for veterans' preference claims
- Statement of service for active duty service members
- Documentation for any professional licenses, certifications, or credentials claimed
- ICTAP documentation (agency notice, performance appraisal, and SF-50) if applicable
When to apply
- Applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on September 9, 2026
How to apply
- Click the Apply Online button on the USAJOBS announcement page
- Complete all required questionnaires and attach necessary supporting documentation
- Submit the application package before the closing date
- If notified, access the USA Hire assessment system using the unique link provided
- Complete the USA Hire assessments within 48 hours of the announcement closing or receipt of the link
Additional information
- This position is covered by the Department of Defense Priority Placement Program
- The recruitment process utilizes USA Hire assessments and structured interviews
- Reasonable accommodation requests for assessments must be made prior to starting the tests
- Applicants may opt-in to make their resume available to other hiring managers for 180 days
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Experienced federal contracting professionals at the GS-12/13 level
- Individuals with a background in major weapons systems procurement
- Candidates comfortable leading teams in complex negotiations and cost analysis
What should you think carefully about?
- Requires on-site presence in Patuxent River, Maryland
- Relocation expenses are subject to funding availability and policy
- Must pass rigorous USA Hire competency-based assessments
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This role offers a significant opportunity to manage high-stakes procurement within the Department of Defense. It is well-suited for a professional looking to advance their career in federal acquisition, leverage their existing expertise in cost analysis, and secure a stable, high-salary position with comprehensive federal benefits.
Our take
A strong match for experienced federal contract specialists; candidates without the required specialized experience or those unable to relocate to Maryland should look elsewhere.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
Official-source verifiedSource: USAJOBS




