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Acquisition Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Acquisition Specialist I provides entrylevel acquisition and procurement support, assisting government or program teams with documentation, research, and acquisition lifecycle activities under senior ...

Acquisition Specialist I provides entry-level acquisition and procurement support, assisting government or program teams with documentation, research, and acquisition lifecycle activities under ...

Acquistion Specialist

Arlington, VA · On-site

$135 - $150/hr

Acquisition Specialist SME Zachary Piper Solutions seeks an Acquisition Specialist SME to support the Army's Integrated Pay & Personnel System at its program office in Crystal City, VA. This position ...

Acquistion Specialist

Mclean, VA · On-site

$135K - $150K/yr

Acquisition Specialist SME Zachary Piper Solutions seeks an Acquisition Specialist SME to support the Army's Integrated Pay & Personnel System at its program office in Crystal City, VA. This position ...

The Acquisition Specialist is paid on a draw plus uncapped commission structure, with performance bonuses tied to accuracy, responsiveness, and results. This role partners closely with the Pre-Owned ...

The Acquisition Specialist is paid on a draw plus uncapped commission structure, with performance bonuses tied to accuracy, responsiveness, and results. This role partners closely with the Pre-Owned ...

The Acquisition Specialist is paid on a draw plus uncapped commission structure, with performance bonuses tied to accuracy, responsiveness, and results. This role partners closely with the Pre-Owned ...

The Acquisition Specialist is paid on a draw plus uncapped commission structure, with performance bonuses tied to accuracy, responsiveness, and results. This role partners closely with the Pre-Owned ...

Acquisition Specialist

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$70K - $93K/yr

The Acquisition Specialist will provide hands-on support throughout the federal acquisition lifecycle, including acquisition planning, market research, solicitation development, evaluation support ...

Acquisition Specialist

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$70K - $93K/yr

The Acquisition Specialist will provide hands-on support throughout the federal acquisition lifecycle, including acquisition planning, market research, solicitation development, evaluation support ...

Acquisition Specialist

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$70 - $93/hr

The Acquisition Specialist will provide hands-on support throughout the federal acquisition lifecycle, including acquisition planning, market research, solicitation development, evaluation support ...

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Showing results 1-20

Acquisition Specialist information

See salary details

$34.5K

$85.9K

$142K

How much do acquisition specialist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for acquisition specialist in the United States is $85,898.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,000.00 and $97,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an acquisition specialist do?

An Acquisition Specialist is responsible for managing the process of acquiring goods, services, or assets for an organization. They handle tasks such as sourcing vendors, negotiating contracts, and ensuring compliance with procurement regulations. Their role is crucial in optimizing costs while maintaining quality and meeting organizational needs. Acquisition Specialists often work closely with internal stakeholders and suppliers to ensure efficient and effective procurement processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an acquisition specialist?

To thrive as an Acquisition Specialist, you need expertise in procurement processes, contract negotiation, and supply chain management, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree or certifications like Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM). Familiarity with procurement software, ERP systems such as SAP or Oracle, and e-sourcing tools is typically required. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help build relationships with vendors and stakeholders. These skills are vital to ensure cost-effective purchasing, compliance with regulations, and successful acquisition outcomes.

What are some common challenges acquisition specialists face when coordinating with multiple departments during the acquisition process?

Acquisition Specialists often work closely with teams from legal, finance, procurement, and operations to ensure all aspects of a purchase or partnership are addressed. A primary challenge is aligning the priorities and timelines of these various departments, which may have different objectives and approval processes. Effective communication and strong organizational skills are essential to manage expectations and keep the acquisition process on track. Building strong relationships across teams can help Acquisition Specialists navigate these challenges and facilitate smoother transactions.

What is the difference between Acquisition Specialist vs Procurement Specialist?

AspectAcquisition SpecialistProcurement Specialist
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree, certifications like CPSM or CPPB often preferredBachelor's degree, certifications like CPSM or CPPB often preferred
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, defense, or large corporationsPrivate companies, government, or non-profits
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in government contracting, defense, and large organizationsCommon in supply chain, manufacturing, and corporate sectors
Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Both Acquisition Specialists and Procurement Specialists focus on acquiring goods and services, often requiring similar certifications and working in related environments. Acquisition Specialists typically work within government or defense sectors, managing complex contracts, while Procurement Specialists are more common in private industries, focusing on sourcing and purchasing. Understanding these differences helps job seekers target the right roles based on their skills and industry interests.

How do you become an acquisition specialist?

To become an acquisition specialist, typically one needs a bachelor's degree in business, finance, or a related field, along with experience in sales, marketing, or procurement. Developing skills in negotiation, market analysis, and familiarity with relevant tools or software can also be beneficial, and some roles may require certifications such as Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM).

Is talent acquisition an entry level job?

Acquisition Specialist roles can be entry-level or require prior experience in recruiting, HR, or related fields. Entry-level positions typically focus on supporting recruitment processes, while more advanced roles involve strategic planning and candidate sourcing. Relevant skills include communication, organization, and familiarity with applicant tracking systems.
More about Acquisition Specialist jobs

What cities are hiring for Acquisition Specialist jobs?

Cities with the most Acquisition Specialist job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Acquisition Specialist jobs?

The most popular types of Acquisition Specialist jobs are:

What states have the most Acquisition Specialist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Acquisition Specialist jobs include:

Infographic showing various Acquisition Specialist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,898 per year, or $41.3 per hour.

Acquisition Specialist

Chantilly, VA

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Overview

VTG is looking for an Acquisition Specialist in Chantilly, VA.  (Note: Contingent upon program award).

Acquisition Specialist I provides entrylevel acquisition and procurement support, assisting government or program teams with documentation, research, and acquisition lifecycle activities under senior supervision. 

Acquisition Specialist II independently supports acquisition planning and execution, ensuring compliance with FAR requirements while enabling timely and effective procurements.

Acquisition Specialist III provides expertlevel acquisition leadership, advising government and program leadership on acquisition strategy, compliance, and execution across complex procurements.


What will you do?

Acquisition Specialist I

  • Support development and maintenance of acquisition documentation (market research summaries, acquisition plans, IGCE inputs, contract files)
  • Assist with FARbased reviews of requirements packages and supporting artifacts
  • Conduct market research and vendor analysis in support of competitive procurements
  • Track acquisition milestones, actions, and deliverables
  • Support coordination with contracting officers, program managers, and stakeholders
  • Maintain acquisition records and compliance documentation

Acquisition Specialist II

  • Develop and review acquisition planning documents, including acquisition strategies and market research reports
  • Support preparation of solicitation packages (RFIs, RFPs, RFQs) and evaluation criteria
  • Analyze requirements to ensure alignment with acquisition approach and contract vehicles
  • Support source selection activities, including proposal evaluation documentation
  • Coordinate with contracting officers, legal, finance, and program teams
  • Track acquisition schedules, risks, and dependencies
  • Provide acquisition guidance to technical and program stakeholders

Acquisition Specialist III

  • Lead acquisition strategy development for complex or highvisibility procurements

  • Advise program leadership on acquisition approaches, contract structures, and risk mitigation

  • Oversee development and review of all acquisition documentation for FAR compliance

  • Support or advise on source selection planning and execution

  • Serve as senior liaison to contracting officers, legal counsel, and senior stakeholders

  • Identify acquisition risks, schedule impacts, and regulatory constraints

  • Mentor junior and midlevel acquisition specialists

  • Support program reviews, audits, and acquisition governance activities


Do you have what it takes?
  • TS/SCI with Poly Required

Acquisition Specialist I

  • 1-4 years of experience supporting acquisition, procurement, or program operations
  • Basic familiarity with the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR)
  • Strong organizational, writing, and analytical skills
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Finance, Acquisition Management, or related field
  • Preferred Qualifications: Experience supporting DoD, IC, DOJ, or civilian agency programs, Exposure to contract vehicles (IDIQs, BPAs, task orders), DAWIA Level I or coursework toward acquisition certification

Acquisition Specialist II

  • 5-9 years of acquisition or procurement support experience
  • Strong working knowledge of FAR and applicable supplements (DFARS, agencyspecific regs)
  • Experience supporting competitive procurements and contract awards
  • Strong written communication and documentation skills
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Finance, Acquisition Management, or related field
  • Preferred Qualifications: Experience supporting IC, DoD, or DOJ acquisition programs, DAWIA Level II or equivalent acquisition certification, Experience with IDIQs, BPAs, and task order competitions

Acquisition Specialist III

  • Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s preferred
  • 10+ years of acquisition or procurement experience
  • Deep expertise in FAR, DFARS, and federal acquisition lifecycle
  • Proven experience supporting large, complex federal procurements
  • Strong leadership, advisory, and stakeholder engagement skills
  • Preferred Qualifications: Experience supporting IC, DoD, or DOJ mission programs, DAWIA Level III or equivalent certification, Experience supporting multiple contract vehicles and acquisition portfolios
Qualifications:
  • TS/SCI with Poly Required

Acquisition Specialist I

  • 1-4 years of experience supporting acquisition, procurement, or program operations
  • Basic familiarity with the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR)
  • Strong organizational, writing, and analytical skills
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Finance, Acquisition Management, or related field
  • Preferred Qualifications: Experience supporting DoD, IC, DOJ, or civilian agency programs, Exposure to contract vehicles (IDIQs, BPAs, task orders), DAWIA Level I or coursework toward acquisition certification

Acquisition Specialist II

  • 5-9 years of acquisition or procurement support experience
  • Strong working knowledge of FAR and applicable supplements (DFARS, agencyspecific regs)
  • Experience supporting competitive procurements and contract awards
  • Strong written communication and documentation skills
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Finance, Acquisition Management, or related field
  • Preferred Qualifications: Experience supporting IC, DoD, or DOJ acquisition programs, DAWIA Level II or equivalent acquisition certification, Experience with IDIQs, BPAs, and task order competitions

Acquisition Specialist III

  • Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s preferred
  • 10+ years of acquisition or procurement experience
  • Deep expertise in FAR, DFARS, and federal acquisition lifecycle
  • Proven experience supporting large, complex federal procurements
  • Strong leadership, advisory, and stakeholder engagement skills
  • Preferred Qualifications: Experience supporting IC, DoD, or DOJ mission programs, DAWIA Level III or equivalent certification, Experience supporting multiple contract vehicles and acquisition portfolios
Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME