Contracting Specialist - Senio

RESPONSIBILITIES As a Contracting Specialist at NSA, responsibilities include but are not limited to:- Designing acquisition strategies to meet the government's needs through the most appropriate contracting method- Conducting market research- Preparing and issuing Requests for Proposal (RFP) and Requests for Quote (RFQ)- Evaluating proposals from potential contractors/vendors- Negotiating contract terms with selected contractors/vendors- Evaluating procurements to ensure compliance with funding, legal, and program requirements- Preparing and awarding contracts with supporting documentation in accordance with Federal Acquisition Regulations and NSA policy- Administering contracts to include issuing modifications, monitoring performance, and ensuring payment is issued - Solving complex and unique challenges that arise throughout the life of a contract- Implementing best practices and processes- Communicating program successes and issues with various levels and organizations throughout the Agency, as well as with external customers and contractors- If not already completed, training in federal acquisition to become certified in Contracting under the Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act within 24 months of employment SKILLS The ideal candidate is someone with a desire for continual learning and who possesses strong communication (both oral and written), problem-solving, analytic and interpersonal skills, along with experience using the Microsoft office suite.Selected individuals must be willing to work in a high-paced, rapidly changing environment.Knowledge and experience in the following areas is required:- Applying Federal and DoD Acquisition concepts, regulations, and statutes (e.g., FAR, DFAR, MPOAS, NSA acquisition directives, policies, and procedures)- Negotiating and awarding contracts- Understanding cost analysisWe are looking for someone who:- Loves to learn- Is comfortable working in a fast-paced environment- Can juggle multiple priorities and deadlines- Enjoys problem-solving and strategic-thinking- Communicates clearly and builds positive working relationships- Doesn't mind taking time to get the details right- Enjoys teamwork and collaboration- Cu