Contract Specialist

Summary

Indian Health Service (IHS) is seeking contract professionals to support the Agency's mission by working with program offices in a cradle-to-grave contracting environment to support the entire acquisition lifecycle.

• Serve as a business advisor to agency stakeholders, advising on acquisition strategies, preparing RFIs/Sources Sought Notices, defining requirements, completing acquisition plans, and assisting with evaluation factors/criteria for supplies and services.
• Prepare pre‑award documents for acquisitions such as professional services, healthcare, information technology, and supplies/equipment, selecting appropriate contract types and incorporating FAR provisions and agency requirements.
• Provide guidance during source selection, award determinations, and release of required post‑award notifications, giving feedback to unsuccessful offerors.
• Perform post‑award administrative functions, including preparing contract modifications and advising program staff on contractual matters.

• Probationary period may apply.
• U.S. Citizenship required.
• Selective Service Registration required for males born after 12/31/1959.
• Confidential Financial Disclosure Form required.
• Applicant must obtain and maintain FAC‑C (Professional) Certification within 36 months of entrance on duty; failure to maintain will result in adverse action.
• Pass E‑Verify employment verification check.
• Set up direct deposit for payment.

This position requires completion of a federal background investigation. Applicants must complete all required investigation forms within five (5) calendar days of issuance and maintain communication with the Personnel Security Specialist.

To qualify, your resume must demonstrate sufficient experience and/or education to perform the duties of the specific position. Experience includes paid, volunteer, and part‑time experience.

• 4‑year bachelor's degree (any major) or
• At least 24 semester hours in specified fields (accounting, business, finance, law, contracts, purchasing, economics, industrial management, marketing, quantitative methods, organization and management).

• Completion of mandatory training prescribed by the agency head, at least 4 years of contracting or related experience, with at least 1 year of specialized experience at the next lower level.
• 4‑year bachelor’s degree with at least 24 semester hours in the specified fields.
• Exceptions and waiver provisions as provided.

• GS‑11:
  One year of specialized experience at GS‑09 level demonstrating contract methods, solicitation preparation, contract administration, and research of contracting regulations.
• GS‑11: OR substitution of 3 years graduate education or equivalent doctoral degree.
• GS‑12:
  One year of specialized experience at GS‑11 level demonstrating acquisition planning, contract awarding, administration, and regulatory interpretation.
• GS‑13:
  One year of specialized experience at GS‑12 level demonstrating full‑range contracting transactions and advisory roles.

Submit unofficial transcripts; official transcripts required upon offer. Only accredited U.S. institutions accepted; foreign equivalency certificates may be required for foreign education.

Financial suitability assessment will be conducted. Substantial delinquent financial obligations may disqualify applicants.

Federal employees earn annual leave; new employees may receive credit for prior non‑federal experience.

Position may be covered by bargaining unit; recruitment or relocation incentives may be authorized. Service agreement of at least 6 months required.

Potential promotion to GS‑13 grade level available; promotion at management discretion.

Evaluation follows OPM Merit Hiring Plan.

Applicants will provide short essay responses (200 words or less each) to four questions regarding commitment to the Constitution, role impact, policy priorities, and work ethic. Responses are optional but may be reviewed.

Candidates should be committed to improving federal efficiency, passionate about American republic ideals, and uphold the rule of law and Constitution.

Review our benefits.