Contract Specialist

Job Overview

This job announcement will be accepting candidate submissions until 14 March 2025.

The AFRL contracting divisions located at Kirtland AFB are seeking to hire energetic contracting professionals for DO-1102-02 Contracting Specialist positions in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The DO-1102-02 position aims to develop technical expertise leading to an unlimited contracting officer’s warrant. This involves honing skills related to contract development/management, negotiation, and oversight.

AFRL/RVK highlights the vision of, "One AFRL, two services,” in that we support both the United States Space Force (USSF) and the United States Air Force (USAF). RV’s mission is to, “Stay one step ahead in space,” while their vision is, “Be indispensable to our nation in improving AF and DoD space capabilities.” Contract Specialists purchase the supplies and services to support the United States Air Force/Space Force needed in order to accomplish their missions. Contracting personnel at AFRL/RVK establish, manage and support contracting for Science and Technology (S&T) acquisitions for the USAF and USSF. This team directly supports both the Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD) Grants.gov and the Small Business Innovation Research/ Small Business Technology Transfer (SBIR/STTR) solicitation initiatives. Contract Specialists provide a vital role in the acquisition of basic to applied research to meet AFRL/RVK's mission. Selectees may be assigned to work high-visibility projects/programs to support external customers such as the USSF Chief Technology and Innovation Office (CTIO).  Visit here for more mission information:  https://www.afrl.af.mil/RV/

AFRL/RDK Contracting is a 50+ person contracting organization that is dedicated to the Directed Energy Directorate a vital center of excellence for directed energy technology within the United States Air Force. Its mission encompasses the discovery, development, and integration of cutting-edge directed energy warfighting technologies. These technologies span various domains, including high-energy lasers, electromagnetics, and electro-optics. The goal is to enhance the capabilities of our nation’s air, space, and cyberspace forces. RDK contracting utilizes a broad range of contract types/authorities to include:  Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR), Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR), Grants and Agreements, Partnership Intermediary Agreements (PIA) and Technology Investment Agreements (TIA), Broad Agency Announcements (BAAs) under FAR Part 35; all Other Transaction (OT) authorities and hybrid actions such as Advanced Research Announcements (ARAs) as well as standard FAR based cost type contracts. See the following link for more information on AFRL/RD: Directed Energy – Air Force Research Laboratory
 

Position duties include, but are not limited to:

• Provide expert guidance and counsel to stakeholders, ensuring that all aspects of contract management are carefully considered, including risk management and incentivization strategies.
• Review and analyze contract packages to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, industry best practices, and company policies.
• Stay up-to-date on the latest contract management trends, regulations, and industry standards, applying your knowledge to drive business growth and improvement.
• Develop and implement contract strategies, leading negotiations and serving as a key interface with vendors and stakeholders.
• Craft and manage contracts, solicitations, and other contract documents, ensuring consistency and compliance with company policies and regulatory requirements.
• Analyze and negotiate contract terms, prices, and costs, ensuring the best possible outcomes for our organization.
• Provide training and guidance to colleagues on contract management best practices, regulatory requirements, and industry trends, helping to drive continuous improvement and excellence.
• Conduct research and analysis to inform contract decisions, providing recommendations and guidance to stakeholders on complex issues and opportunities.
   

Eligible for a Referral Bonus?

No

Required Qualifications

• United States Citizenship

• Ability to obtain and maintain the required security clearance

• A bachelor's degree in business administration or related field from an accredited academic institution

• Must meet the 1102 occupational series qualifications defined in Title 10: 10 USC 1724: Contracting positions: qualification requirements (house.gov)

• Must have at least one year (52 weeks) of specialized experience at the next lower grade level (DO-01/GS-11 or equivalent in other pay systems)

• Employee is required to file an OGE Form 450, Confidential Financial Disclosure Report, upon appointment and will be required to file annually

Desired Qualifications

• Held a Contracting Officer Warrant
• 3 or more years of defense contracting experience, R&D preferred
• Ability to effectively communicate both orally and in writing
• Knowledge of business practices and market conditions
• Knowledge of government and agency-specific guidelines and business practices, including: statutes, regulations, policies, and procedures that cover different contract types

Additional Information

• May be required to travel

(Requisition No. 35134)

Series

1102