Contract Specialist - DIR-K - SOF AT&L

Applied Research Solutions•Tampa, FL

17d•Onsite

About The Position

Applied Research Solutions is hiring a Contract Specialist to support Special Operations Forces Acquisition, Technology and Logistics (SOF AT&L) DIR-K. DIR-K provides enterprise-wide contracting capability for SOF AT&L, carrying out timely, mission-focused acquisition actions that support readiness, sustainment, and modernization across the SOF enterprise. Its contracting offices use FAR and non-FAR pathways for acquisitions involving weapons, aviation, maritime platforms, digital infrastructure, data and AI-enabled systems, classified programs, and force readiness initiatives. The Contract Specialist independently supports the acquisition lifecycle, from acquisition planning and pre-solicitation documentation through solicitation, award, and contract administration. The specialist advises customers and Integrated Product Team members, conducts acquisition research and price and cost analysis, prepares contract documentation in Procurement Desktop Defense (PD2) or a relevant contract writing system, and maintains auditable contract files. The role is based on-site at MacDill AFB, Florida, with 10% travel. Applied Research Solutions describes itself as a provider of technically integrated solutions and mission support. The company says it offers a culture focused on employee career goals and work-life balance, an industry-competitive benefits package, an awards and recognition program, and personalized attention from senior managers. Employment is contingent upon successfully completing a background investigation, including criminal history and identity checks. The employer also states that it complies with federal affirmative-action requirements concerning qualified individuals with disabilities and protected veterans.

Requirements

Must be a U.S. citizen.
Must have and be able to maintain a Secret clearance.
DAWIA Practitioner (formerly Level II) equivalency in Contracting.
Bachelor’s degree in Business or a related field.
10 years of contract management experience.
Familiarity with DoD acquisitions in a cleared environment supporting SOF.
Five years of experience supporting DoD acquisition agencies.
Proficiency with Procurement Desktop Defense (PD2) contract writing software.
Knowledge of price and cost analysis sufficient to review proposals and established rates to determine price reasonableness or develop a negotiation position.

Nice To Haves

DAWIA Advanced (formerly Level III) in Contracting or Federal Acquisition Certification in Contracting (FAC-C) Level 3.
Master’s degree in Business or Acquisition and eight years of contract management experience supporting a DoD acquisition agency.
Weapon system support experience, including contracting with procurement and research and development funding.
Experience with Other Transaction Agreements (OTAs), as well as traditional FAR/DFARS contracting methods.
Experience providing contracting support to SOF organizations and operations.
Experience as a former warranted Contracting Officer.
Experience as a Supervisory Contract Specialist.

Responsibilities

Independently review and provide feedback on procurement request packages and pre-solicitation materials, including sources sought notices, synopses, market research reports, statements of work, justifications and approvals, IGCEs, acquisition plans, and source selection plans.
Participate in acquisition planning and business strategy activities and provide business advice and assistance to customers and Integrated Product Team members.
Research applicable acquisition regulations and guidance, including the FAR, and provide informed advice and courses of action to customers.
Prepare pre-solicitation documents, including Determinations and Findings and Small Business coordination (DD Form 2579); route documents for review and approval and post required notices.
Prepare solicitations and amendments in PD2 or another relevant contract writing system for PCO review and approval; route documentation for review and approval and post required notices.
Conduct price and cost analysis and use appropriate techniques, including coordination with DCAA and/or DCMA as necessary, to determine fair and reasonable prices.
Review evaluation input from sources such as technical program and DCAA personnel, provide feedback, and prepare negotiation positions such as PNM and BCM for PCO review and approval.
Prepare contract awards or agreements and amendments in PD2 or another relevant contract writing system for PCO review and approval; route documentation for review and approval and post required notices.
Prepare post-award documentation, including contract modifications and memoranda for the record.
Conduct contract administration functions retained by USSOCOM.
Establish and maintain quality contract files that are auditable, repeatable, and defensible.
Participate in IPTs and professionally guide and assist team members, technical program personnel, sales representatives, local suppliers, and contractors on acquisition and business-related issues.
Perform other duties as assigned.