Planate Management Group is hiring a Contract Specialist III to lead complex federal acquisition activities for the Department of Veterans Affairs. In this role, you will serve as a recognized authority, providing advanced acquisition support and strategic guidance.
What You'll Do
- Oversee full lifecycle acquisition activities, including pre-award, award, and post-award support for complex contracts.
- Conduct market research, prepare pre-award notices, and document small business capability analyses.
- Develop acquisition strategies, Independent Government Cost Estimates (IGCEs), and recommendations for solicitation approaches, options, and risks.
- Prepare solicitations (RFQs, RFPs, Combined Synopsis/Solicitations) and ensure compliance with FAR, VAAR, and internal VA policies.
- Assist with proposal and quote evaluations, including price/cost analysis and technical proposal assessments.
- Prepare and administer contract awards, modifications, option exercises, and close-out documentation.
- Monitor contractor performance, schedules, compliance with contract terms, and resolve performance issues.
- Provide guidance, oversight, and mentorship to junior acquisition staff on acquisition planning, documentation, and execution.
- Maintain accurate contract documentation in the Agency electronic contract management system and report actions into the Federal Procurement Data System (FPDS).
- Ensure timely and accurate submission of deliverables, including monthly status reports, acquisition milestone trackers, and lessons learned summaries.
What We're Looking For
- Bachelor Degree in Engineering, Business Management, or Accountancy.
- Minimum of 6 years of experience in conducting comprehensive acquisition support activities with a working knowledge of Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR).
- Specialized experience required for one or more of the following: at least 3 years developing and administering construction or A-E solicitations and contracts; at least 5 years with complex service solicitations and contracts (e.g., healthcare); at least 2 years developing real property or lease-related solicitations and contracts.
- Demonstrated leadership skills and ability to mentor acquisition staff.
- Must have stayed/worked in the US within the last 10 years to successfully pass the VA background investigation and obtain a clearance.
- Must be fluent in English, both written and verbal.
Nice to Have
- FAC-C or DAWIA Level III in Contracting Certification preferred.
Benefits & Compensation
- Compensation: $80k - $90k/year (range varies depending on experience and qualifications).
- Medical insurance/Dental/Vision Insurance.
- 401K plan eligibility upon hire.
- Health and Savings Account plan.
- Life/AD&D Insurance Coverage.
- Short-Term Disability Insurance Coverage.
- Paid Holidays.
- Paid Time Off.
- Wellness Offering.
- Training and Development.
- License/Certification support.
- Recognition and Rewards program.
- Travel Insurance.
Work Mode
This is an on-site position in Orlando, Florida, United States.
Planate Management Group is an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.



