About the opportunity
If you have experience in contracting, negotiating, and providing policy guidance and technical assistance to the acquisitions community and you want to play a significant role in a dynamic organization, then consider joining the Office of Acquisition and Logistics Management (OALM), Office of the Director (OD). As a Supervisory Contract Specialist (OALM Deputy Director), your duties include participating in policy development and guidance, program direction, and the implementation of DHHS policy. The role provides policy direction, leadership, and oversight of day-to-day functional activities of OALM, planning, organizing, and directing all functions and services of the Deputy Director’s Office, establishing short-term and long-term goals, and formulating policy and procedural materials pertaining to the management of NIH acquisition programs.
Salary and benefits
- Salary range of $169,279 to $197,200 per year
- Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives
- Federal student loan repayment options based on organizational need and budget
- Work schedule flexibilities including telework and flexible/compressed schedules
Who can apply?
- U.S. Citizenship or proof of being a U.S. National required by the closing date
- Males born after December 31, 1959 must be registered with the Selective Service
- Meet basic education or experience requirements, such as a 4-year course of study with at least 24 semester hours in relevant business-related fields (accounting, business, finance, law, contracts, purchasing, economics, industrial management, marketing, quantitative methods, organization, and management), or have occupied a GS-1102-15 position since at least January 1, 2000, or be a current DHHS employee with an approved waiver
- Have at least 4 years of experience in contracting or related positions
- Have at least 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-14 level in Federal service or private/public sector providing technical and strategic leadership to contracting professionals, overseeing complex high-value acquisitions, and serving as a Subject Matter Expert
Required documents
- Resume demonstrating how skills and experiences align with the qualifications (maximum two pages)
- Completed application questionnaire
- Eligibility documentation if applicable (e.g., SF-50 showing latest position and full performance level)
- Transcripts or list of courses if qualifying based on education
- Copy of current FAC-C (Professional) Certification or equivalent if possessed
When to apply
- Opening Date: September 10, 2026
- Closing Date: September 14, 2026 at 11:59 PM (ET)
- Online assessments through USA Hire must be completed within 48 hours following the close of the announcement if requested
How to apply
- Click the Apply Online button on USAJOBS and follow prompts to select your resume and supporting documents
- Read and respond to all eligibility and assessment questions
- Complete and submit the application questionnaire
- Monitor email for unique assessment access links to complete the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments if notified
Additional information
- Position is designated as a non-emergency/teleworker position
- Selectee must obtain a FAC-C (Professional) Certification within 36 months of entrance on duty
- Employment is subject to successful completion of a background investigation and onboarding requirements
- Required to complete a Confidential Financial Disclosure Report (OGE Form 450) annually
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…
- Senior contracting professionals with experience at the GS-14 level or equivalent in the private/public sector.
- Leaders with a strong background in acquisition policy, high-value contract negotiation, and program direction.
- Professionals who value hybrid work flexibility while maintaining a high-level leadership role.
What should you think carefully about?
- The role requires obtaining a FAC-C (Professional) Certification within 36 months of starting.
- The position involves significant financial oversight, requiring an annual Confidential Financial Disclosure Report.
- Applicants must be U.S. citizens and meet strict educational or experience requirements.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This is a premier opportunity for a seasoned acquisition leader to shape policy and strategy at the NIH. It offers a high salary range and the flexibility of a hybrid schedule, making it an attractive long-term career move for those looking to lead large-scale federal acquisition programs.
Our take
This role is highly suitable for experienced acquisition leaders ready for a deputy director-level challenge. It is less appropriate for those without extensive experience in federal contracting or those not yet eligible for senior-level federal positions.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
Official-source verifiedSource: USAJOBS
