Job Description & Details
This is a heavy-duty federal contracting role based out of Kittery, Maine, requiring deep expertise in navigating complex government procurement regulations. If you know your way around IDIQ contracts, source selections, and post-award administration without needing hand-holding, this gig offers a solid chance to step in and run high-value acquisitions.
What You'll Actually Be Doing
Your day-to-day will revolve around managing the full lifecycle of complex federal acquisitions, from shaping initial market research and crafting airtight RFPs to leading price analyses and negotiations. You won't just be pushing paperwork; you'll be actively solving procedural roadblocks, handling contract modifications, and managing vendor performance. Plus, a key part of your mandate will be stepping up as a mentor to level up junior specialists on the team.
The Core Tech Stack
You need absolute fluency in federal contracting laws, regulations, and automated procurement systems like FPDS-NG, ePS, and AMS. Mastery of Microsoft 365—especially Excel for heavy-duty price analysis and Word for drafting meticulous solicitation documents—is non-negotiable. Combined with your grasp of IDIQ mechanics, these tools will be your bread and butter.
Interview Expectations
Expect the hiring panel to test your real-world judgment by asking how you would handle a contentious sole-source justification or a protest during a major source selection. They aren't looking for a textbook definition of the FAR; they want to hear how you balance compliance with schedule pressure while keeping audit trails bulletproof. They'll also likely probe your mentorship style to see how you actually pull junior staff up to speed.
Application Advice
To get past the automated screeners and land an interview, ensure your resume explicitly highlights phrases like "IDIQ contracts," "price analysis," "source selection," and your specific certification level like DAWIA or FAC-C. Don't just list tasks; frame your bullet points around the scale of the procurements you've managed and the dollar values you've successfully negotiated.