Contracting Specialist

Overview Contracting Specialist III JBAB, Washington, DC The Contract Specialist III plays a critical role in supporting the Air Force Rapid Capabilities Office (AFRCO) and the Secretary of the Air Force for Acquisition Special Programs Division (SAF/AQL) in the planning and execution of complex acquisitions essential to national security. This senior-level position provides high-level contracting expertise to advance the Department of the Air Force’s mission of addressing emerging threats and supporting advanced combat systems. You will oversee procurement activities in alignment with Federal, Department of Defense, and Air Force acquisition policies, applying your extensive knowledge to drive innovation and ensure mission success for high-visibility and mission-critical projects. Responsibilities Lead the planning and management of acquisitions for a variety of products and services, providing strategic guidance and oversight for high-priority projects. Deliver cradle-to-grave contract support, encompassing both pre-award and post-award activities, including: Conducting in-depth market research and preparing complex solicitation documentation. Reviewing proposals for compliance, conducting cost and price evaluations, and advising on negotiation strategies. Performing contract administration, maintaining detailed contract files, and drafting a range of contract actions, such as price negotiation memorandums, determinations and findings, justifications, and approvals. Reviewing and processing invoices and ensuring compliance with contract terms. Collaborate with the Contracting Officer to develop acquisition strategies, determining contract types and methods for complex and unique requirements. Support the Contracting Officer in monitoring contract performance, analyzing issues, and providing expert recommendations based on strategic and budgetary considerations. Apply advanced knowledge of contracting for sophisticated systems, R&D projects, and classified programs, utilizing various contracting methodologies (e.g., negotiated contracts, Simplified Acquisition Procedures, and commercial acquisitions) per FAR, DFARS, and AFFARS. Manage contract actions from initiation to closeout, ensuring rigorous adherence to policies and regulatory standards. Lead source selection activities, conduct comprehensive cost and price analysis, negotiate contract terms, and prepare all required documentation for senior leadership review. Demonstrated ability to independently define, assist, advise, and guide issue resolution and project execution under general guidance, addressing highly complex problems across multiple disciplines. Other duties as assigned. Qualifications Master’s degree (MA/MS/ME) in a relevant field. 10+ years of relevant Department of Defense (DoD), Intelligence Community (IC), or industry experience, including at least two (2+) years in a Special Access Program (SAP) or Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) environment, with at least one (1+) year of this experience within the past five years. Valid and active driver’s license. Active TS/SCI clearance with eligibility for a Government Counterintelligence Scope Polygraph (CI Poly). Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Deep understanding of acquisition and contracting processes for complex systems, R&D projects, and classified programs, adhering to FAR, DFARS, and AFFARS. Exceptional ability to conduct detailed cost and price analyses, perform sophisticated market research, and assess contract performance under challenging timelines and demanding performance standards. Strong capability in maintaining comprehensive contract files, drafting precise documentation, and managing multiple, complex contract actions independently. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively advise stakeholders and communicate strategic insights on contract negotiation and performance. Ability to work efficiently under high-stakes conditions, solve complex challenges, and prioritize tasks to support mission-critical initiatives. Ability to travel CONUS and OCONUS as needed; however, travel is expected to be infrequent if at all. Estimated Salary/Wage USD $137,600.00/Yr. Up to USD $185,000.00/Yr. #J-18808-Ljbffr