This role serves as a senior-level Contract Specialist responsible for managing high-value, complex federal acquisition projects across multiple functional areas including construction, architectural-engineering (A-E), professional services, and real property leasing. The specialist ensures full compliance with Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), Veterans Affairs Acquisition Regulation (VAAR), and agency-specific policies throughout the entire procurement lifecycle. Key responsibilities include developing acquisition strategies, preparing independent government cost estimates, leading source selection activities, and administering contracts from award through closeout. The position requires strong analytical, leadership, and communication skills to guide cross-functional teams, mentor junior staff, and interface effectively with government stakeholders. This role is integral to ensuring mission success through efficient, transparent, and legally sound procurement practices that support the Department of Veterans Affairs’ critical operations.
Responsibilities
- Lead end-to-end acquisition processes, including pre-award planning, solicitation, award, and post-award contract administration for complex federal contracts.
- Conduct market research and prepare acquisition documentation, including small business assessments and pre-solicitation notices.
- Develop acquisition strategies, Independent Government Cost Estimates (IGCEs), and recommend appropriate solicitation methods, contract options, and risk mitigation approaches.
- Draft and issue solicitations such as RFQs, RFPs, and Combined Synopsis/Solicitations, ensuring adherence to FAR, VAAR, and internal policies.
- Support evaluation of contractor proposals through cost and technical analysis, contributing to source selection decisions.
- Administer contract awards, modifications, option exercises, and closeouts, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
- Monitor contractor performance, compliance with contract terms, and resolve issues related to schedules and deliverables.
- Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior acquisition personnel on procurement planning, documentation, and execution.
- Maintain complete and accurate contract records in the agency’s electronic system and report contract actions to FPDS.
- Ensure timely submission of status reports, acquisition milestone updates, and lessons learned documentation.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business Management, or Accountancy.
- Minimum of six years of experience in federal acquisition support with a solid understanding of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR).
- Must have resided in the United States within the last ten years to qualify for VA background investigation and security clearance.
- Fluent in English, with strong written and verbal communication skills.
Nice to Have
- FAC-C or DAWIA Level III Contracting Certification is preferred.
Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage
- Eligibility to participate in the 401K plan from date of hire
- Health and savings account options
- Life and AD&D insurance coverage
- Short-term disability insurance
- Paid holidays and paid time off
- Wellness programs and offerings
- Training and professional development opportunities
- Support for licenses and certifications
- Employee recognition and rewards program
Compensation
Salary: $80k - $90k/year (range varies depending on experience and qualifications).
Work Arrangement
onsite — Orlando, Florida, United States
- Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer
- We Take Care of Our Own; Personally, and Profession.
Additional Information
- Firm is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB).
- Headquarters located in Alexandria, Virginia, and Orlando, Florida, with technical support centers in South East Asia and East Africa.
- Provides program management and facilities engineering services globally.
- Specialized experience required: minimum of 3 years managing construction or A-E contracts, 5 years with complex service contracts (e.g., healthcare), or 2 years with real property or leasing procurements.
