Acquisition Specialist

Job Summary

Galapagos Federal Systems LLC is looking for an enthusiastic, well-qualified individual to fill the Acquisition Specialist position. This role offers the opportunity to work with a diverse and talented group of individuals committed to driving success.

In this role, you will support government acquisition activities by conducting market research, developing acquisition strategies, and assisting with the preparation of Requests for Proposals (RFPs). You will play a key role in technical evaluations, ensuring submitted proposals align with mission objectives and program requirements.

The ideal candidate will bring strong expertise in defense acquisition and procurement processes, coupled with a high level of attention to detail. Your contributions will help guide complex procurements and support the government’s long-term strategic objectives in a dynamic, mission-focused environment.

Key Responsibilities

The Acquisition Specialist will:

• Support and lead complex Department of Defense (DoD) acquisition efforts across the full acquisition lifecycle, including pre-award, award, and post-award phases
• Develop and execute acquisition strategies, conduct market research, and define evaluation criteria to support competitive procurements
• Support Requests for Proposal (RFP) development, source selection activities, and technical and cost evaluations to ensure alignment with mission and program objectives
• Integrate cost, schedule, and performance considerations into acquisition planning and execution
• Apply risk management principles to identify, assess, and mitigate programmatic and acquisition risks
• Support Planning, Programming, Budgeting, and Execution (PPBE) activities and provide acquisition input to budget formulation and execution
• Provide acquisition and contracting support to program offices, including product development and science and technology (S&T) initiatives
• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, program leadership, and senior government stakeholders to drive mission success
• Prepare and deliver clear, concise briefings and documentation for senior and executive-level defense leadership

Skills and Experience

The Acquisition Specialist must have:

• Active Top Secret / SCI clearance
• Minimum of 10 years of hands-on DoD experience in contracts and subcontracts, with full lifecycle acquisition involvement
• Extensive knowledge of Air Force and U.S. Space Force acquisition policies, processes, and organizational structures
• Demonstrated expertise in acquisition strategy development, market research, source selection, and contract requirements development
• Strong analytical and critical-thinking skills, with a proven ability to operate in complex acquisition environments
• In-depth understanding of PPBE processes and risk management practices
• Experience supporting program offices, product development efforts, and S&T programs
• Proven ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively with multidisciplinary teams
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; experience engaging senior and executive-level defense stakeholders

Education and Certifications

The Acquisition Specialist must meet the following:

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field
• Master’s degree in a related field

Preferred

• DAWIA certification in Program Management or a related acquisition functional area
• Project Management Professional (PMP) certification

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• 401(k)
• PTO
• Paid Parental Leave
• Tuition reimbursement
• Paid federal holidays

Security Clearance

Must be a U.S. Citizen. A high-level Department of Defense active security clearance is/may be required. Applicants selected will be subject to a security investigation and may need to meet eligibility requirements for access to government information.

Physical Requirements

Work may involve sitting or standing for extended periods of time and typing and reading from a computer screen. The candidate must have enough mobility, including bending, reaching, and kneeling, to complete daily duties in a prompt and efficient manner, and that may include lifting up to thirty pounds, as necessary.

Company…