Contract Specialist (Level I) - - 177625 with Security Clearance
The Contract Specialist supports a DARPA program by preparing and administering Department of Defense R&D contracts, negotiating terms, and ensuring compliance with federal procurement regulations. This hybrid role requires active Secret Clearance and involves full lifecycle contract management, cost and price analysis, and collaboration with contracting officers to advance national security initiatives.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Energy, Oil & Gas.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Role Overview
This is a cleared, hybrid Contract Specialist (Level I) position supporting DoD research & development work for a confidential client in State Farm, VA. The role requires a current Active Secret clearance, 1+ years of government contracting experience, and hands-on cradle-to-grave contract administration for R&D (FAR Part 35) work. This position is full-time and typically requires 2–3 days per week on-site in State Farm, VA.
What You’ll Do
- Prepare and administer Department of Defense Research & Development contracts (FAR Part 35).
- Support negotiation of contract terms and conditions with government and contractor personnel.
- Prepare and process contract modifications; maintain accurate contract files and documentation.
- Analyze procurement policies and procedures to ensure federal compliance (FAR/DFARS).
- Perform cost and price analysis and help develop cost proposals.
- Work alongside contracting officers and other acquisition team members on R&D programs.
Qualifications
- Active Secret clearance required.
- Minimum 1 year of government contracting experience.
- Familiarity with full cradle-to-grave contract administration (pre-award through closeout).
- Experience with cost proposals, negotiating contract terms, preparing modifications, and administering subcontracts.
- Working knowledge of FAR and DFARS, with specific familiarity with FAR Part 35 preferred.
- DoD contracting experience preferred; DARPA or NAVSEA experience is a plus.
- Bachelor’s degree required.
Compensation & Benefits
- Base salary range: $60,000–$110,000 per year (dependent on experience).
- Comprehensive benefits package: medical, dental, vision, 401(k), PTO, sick leave (as required by law), and recognized holidays.
Location & Schedule
- Office location: State Farm, VA.
- Work model: Hybrid — typically 2–3 days on-site per week in State Farm, VA.
- Employment type: Full-time.
Why This Role
- Work on impactful DoD research & development programs supporting national security.
- Early-career growth potential — strong opportunity for skill development and advancement.
- Collaborate with experienced contracting officers and acquisition professionals on high-profile R&D efforts.
Keywords (for search/SEO)
- Contract Specialist (Level I), State Farm VA
- DoD contracting, FAR Part 35
- Active Secret Clearance
- Contract administration, cradle-to-grave
- DARPA contracting, R&D contracts
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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