APEX Contract Specialist- Fairbanks

Join the Alaska APEX Accelerator Team and help Alaska’s small businesses succeed in government contracting! We’re seeking a motivated, self-managing problem solver who’s passionate about empowering local businesses. If you thrive in a dynamic environment, and want to make a real impact, this is the role for you! You’ll provide hands-on support, guidance, and education to help businesses navigate the complex world of government contracts and unlock new opportunities for our local communities.

As a Contract Specialist for the APEX Alaska Accelerator Program, you will provide one-on-one technical assistance to businesses navigating government contracting at the federal, state, and local levels. Responsibilities include helping clients register in procurement systems, identify bidding opportunities, interpret solicitations, prepare proposals, and maintain compliance with regulations such as the FAR. You will also support small business certifications (e.g., 8(a), HUBZone, DBE), deliver procurement training and webinars, and assist with outreach to rural and underserved communities. This role involves partnership development, internal program support, and staying current on evolving contracting policies and systems.

To thrive in this role, a candidate must bring practical experience with government contracting procedures at the federal, state, and local levels, along with a solid understanding of small business operations and challenges. Success in this position requires strong analytical and communication skills, the ability to interpret complex procurement regulations, and a client-focused mindset. Proficiency in public speaking, event coordination and maintaining databases is essential. Candidates should be comfortable using procurement and registration platforms (e.g., SAM.gov, DSBS, WAWF) and be adept with standard business software. A collaborative spirit, adaptability to evolving regulations, and a commitment to professional growth will ensure effectiveness in supporting businesses and strengthening the APEX Accelerator program’s mission.

Minimum Qualifications:

Three years of college coursework and three years of progressively responsible experience in acquisition, with an emphasis on government contracting, or in a related area, or an equivalent combination of training and experience.

Position Details:

This position is based in Fairbanks. It may involve some travel to various locations within the state.  This is a term-funded, full-time, exempt staff position complete with both a competitive salary and  full employee benefits package . UA provides a generous compensation package that includes retirement options, annual leave, 12 paid holidays per year, tuition waivers for employees and family members, and affordable medical, dental and vision care coverage. New hires will be placed on the  UA Staff Salary Schedule , Grade 79, based on education and experience.

Application review will begin on October 12, 2026 . Applications received by this date will receive priority consideration; however, the recruitment will remain open until filled.

To view the full list of job responsibilities, please click HERE .

☎️If you have any questions regarding this position, please contact Patrick Sullivan at View email address on careers.alaska.edu.

*To be eligible for this position, applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without restriction.  Applicants who now or may in the future require visa sponsorship to work in the United States are not eligible.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________This is a term-funded position reviewed annually for contract renewal at the University's discretion.

The University of Alaska (UA) is responsible for providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities throughout the applicant screening process. If you need assistance in completing this application or during any phase of the interview process, please contact the ADA team at View email address on careers.alaska.edu .

The  University of Alaska () is an Equal Opportunity/Equal Access Employer and Educational Institution.  The University is committed to a  policy of non-discrimination () against individuals on the basis of any legally protected status.

The successful applicant is required to complete a background check. Any offer of employment is contingent on the background check.

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All employees at the University of Alaska are expected to uphold the highest standards of ethics and professionalism when conducting or engaged in university business.

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