Contracting Specialist - Entry Level; Maryland

Contracting Specialist - Entry Level (Maryland)

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Start a career where you learn to become an acquisition professional supporting the protection of our warfighters around the world.

• Conduct market research and prepare and issue Requests for Proposal (RFPs) and Requests for Quote (RFQs)
• Evaluate proposals, negotiate contract terms, and award contracts in accordance with FAR and NSA policy
• Administer contracts, including modifications and payment issuance
• Monitor contractor performance, identify opportunities to improve performance and reduce cost, and collaborate with technical experts
• Serve as part of a Source Selection Team and present status updates to senior leadership
• Forecast requirements, draft pre‑solicitation documents, and manage the entire acquisition lifecycle
• Complete training in federal acquisition and achieve DAWIA certification within specified timeframe (24–36 months)
• Utilize advanced Excel and Word skills for analytic support and cost estimating

• Entry/Developmental: high school diploma/GED + 4 years relevant experience, associate’s degree + 2 years experience, or bachelor’s degree + no experience
• Relevant experience in business management or contracting (acquisition, procurement, program management, finance, accounting, logistics)
• Proficiency with email, spreadsheets, and word processing
• DAWIA professional certification in Contracting (or a plan to obtain within 36 months)

Salary: $57,164 – $90,898 (Entry/Developmental). Full‑time Monday‑Friday basic 8hr/day 6:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. (flexible). Training provided as needed. NSA offers a comprehensive benefits package.

Submit responses to four narrative questions (200 words or less each). Responses are not required but are encouraged.

Applicants must be U.S. citizenship, pass a security background investigation and polygraph, and meet EEO and disability accommodation requirements.

NSA is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants and employees are subject to random drug testing in accordance with Executive Order 12564.

Positions are in the Excepted Service under Title 10, U.S.C. § 1601 appointment authority. Veterans’ preference is provided per DoD Instruction 1400.25.