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Contract Specialist Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

Contract Specialist

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$110K - $160K/yr

The Acquisition Specialist performs a full range of complex pre- and post-award contracting ... Prepare and validate contract files. * Apply the policies and procedures for utilizing task and ...

The Acquisition Specialist performs a full range of complex pre- and post-award contracting ... Prepare and validate contract files. * Apply the policies and procedures for utilizing task and ...

Senior Contracts Specialist

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$91K/yr

The Senior Contracts Specialist will manage a variety of complex contracts and subcontracts ... Manage the administration of a variety of contract types, including commercial, public sector ...

Senior Specialist, Contracts Job Code: 39344 Job Location: Huntsville, AL Job Schedule: 9/80 ... Contract Management Under minimal direction, plan, manage, and administer all phases and types of ...

Contract Specialst

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$60K - $123K/yr

As a Contract Specialist, you will support a wide range of acquisition related issues, challenges, and opportunities. Working under general supervision, you will partner with acquisition team members ...

Contracts Analyst, Mid

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$100K - $110K/yr

... PM Specialist - Mid This position requires an active Top-Secret clearance to start (TS) A government contract requires that this position be restricted to U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents.

We are seeking a Realty Specialist to play a critical role in managing and supporting federal real estate acquisitions, leasing, and contract administration. The Realty Specialist Team performs a ...

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Contract Specialist information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$36.1K

$76.2K

$110.6K

How much do contract specialist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract specialist in Decatur, AL is $76,213.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,400.00 and $92,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract specialist?

A contract specialist is a professional responsible for drafting, reviewing, and managing contracts to ensure compliance with legal and organizational standards. They often work in government agencies or corporations, requiring knowledge of procurement processes, negotiation skills, and familiarity with contract management tools. Their role helps facilitate secure and effective agreements between parties.

How much does a contract specialist earn?

A contract specialist typically earns a median annual salary of around $65,000 to $85,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Salaries can vary based on the industry, level of certification, and whether they work in government or private sectors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Contract Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Specialist, you need a strong understanding of contract law, negotiation techniques, and procurement processes, typically supported by a bachelor’s degree in business, law, or a related field. Familiarity with contract management software, ERP systems, and certifications such as CPCM (Certified Professional Contracts Manager) are highly beneficial. Excellent attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills set outstanding professionals apart in this field. These competencies ensure compliance, mitigate risk, and promote successful business agreements for their organization.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

Contract specialists typically do not earn $500,000 annually; high-paying roles in the US reaching this level are often in executive management, specialized medical fields, investment banking, or corporate law. These positions usually require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and specialized skills, and compensation may include bonuses and stock options.

What is the difference between Contract Specialist vs Contract Administrator?

AspectContract SpecialistContract Administrator
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree; often certifications like NCMA or NCMA-CertifiedBachelor's degree; certifications like NCMA or NCMA-Certified are common
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, defense, corporate sectorsGovernment agencies, corporate sectors, private companies
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in government and defense contractingWidely in government, corporate, and private sectors
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Contract Specialists focus on negotiating, drafting, and analyzing contracts, often in government or defense sectors. Contract Administrators manage contract execution, ensuring compliance and performance. While both roles require similar credentials and work environments, Contract Specialists are more involved in the negotiation phase, whereas Contract Administrators oversee contract performance post-award.

What are Contract Specialists?

Contract Specialists are professionals responsible for managing, drafting, reviewing, and negotiating contracts between organizations and vendors, suppliers, or clients. They ensure that agreements comply with legal requirements and organizational policies, while also protecting their employer’s interests and minimizing risks. Contract Specialists often collaborate with legal, procurement, and project management teams to oversee the contract lifecycle from initiation to completion. Their work is essential in both the public and private sectors to facilitate smooth business operations and maintain strong professional relationships.

What Is a Contract Specialist?

A contract specialist oversees the review and negotiation of contracts between two or more parties. As a contract specialist, your responsibilities include reviewing existing contracts to be sure both parties are fulfilling their requirements, mediating and addressing shortcomings, and negotiating new contracts. You may also be asked to research alternatives and execute these options. Contract specialists may work with various professionals within a business, such as purchasing agents or the purchasing manager. Your job is to ensure that both parties feel they are being treated fairly and are therefore willing to agree to the terms of the contract.

What certifications do you need to be a contract specialist?

Contract specialists typically benefit from certifications such as the Certified Federal Contracts Manager (CFCM), Certified Professional Contracts Manager (CPCM), or the Defense Contract Management Certification. These credentials demonstrate expertise in contract law, procurement processes, and federal regulations, and can enhance job prospects and professional credibility.

How does a Contract Specialist typically collaborate with legal and procurement teams during the contract lifecycle?

Contract Specialists work closely with both legal and procurement teams to ensure contracts are compliant, cost-effective, and aligned with organizational goals. During contract drafting and negotiation, they coordinate with legal counsel to address risk management and regulatory requirements. Simultaneously, they partner with procurement professionals to understand supplier capabilities, pricing structures, and delivery terms. This cross-functional collaboration is essential for developing robust contracts and resolving any issues that arise throughout the contract lifecycle.
What job categories do people searching Contract Specialist jobs in Decatur, AL look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Specialist jobs in Decatur, AL are:
What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Contract Specialist jobs? Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Contract Specialist job openings:
Infographic showing various Contract Specialist job openings in Decatur, AL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 59% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 16% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,213 per year, or $36.6 per hour.
Contract Specialist

Contract Specialist

Defense Logistics Agency

Huntsville, AL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago


Defense Logistics Agency rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

269th of 832 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Telework Eligible

Yes

Major Duties

  • If selected at the GS-11 level, the below responsibilities will be performed in a develomental capacity.
  • Perform a full range of contracting duties and responsibilities for assigned acquisitions, which may include pre or post award.
  • Perform post-award functions to include contract terminations.
  • Perform pre-award functions to include acquisition planning, solicitations, and negotiations.
  • May establish long-term contracts.
  • Coaches/Mentors junior specialists to assist in development.

Qualification Summary

To qualify for a Contract Specialist, your resume and supporting documentation must support: Basic Contracting Requirement: A.) A baccalaureate degree from an accredited educational institution authorized to grant baccalaureate degrees OR B.) a current civilian employee in DoD or member of the Armed Forces, who occupied an 1102 position, contracting officer position, or comparable military contracting position with authority to award or administer contracts above the simplified acquisition threshold on or before September 30, 2000 are excluded from the requirements of "A" above. Contracting Officer Requirement for GS-12: Must possess at least two years of experience in a contracting position. Specialized Experience: One year of specialized experience that equipped you with the particular competencies to successfully perform the duties of the position and is directly in or related to this position. In addition to meeting the Basic Education Requirement above, to qualify for the GS-11 grade level, specialized experience must be at the GS-09 grade level or equivalent under other pay systems in the Federal service, military or private sector. To qualify for the GS-12 grade level, specialized experience must be at the GS-11 grade level or equivalent under other pay systems in the Federal service, military or private sector. Applicants must meet eligibility requirements including minimum qualifications, and any other regulatory requirements by the cut-off/closing date of the announcement. Creditable specialized experience includes: GS-11: Experience working with commonly used contract methods and contract types Determining methods of procurement Soliciting proposals for a variety of supplies or services Negotiating or administering contracts where the contracting actions are well defined and well precedent GS-12: Experience applying contracting principles, laws, statues, regulations and procedures applicable to pre and post-award actions sufficient to administer contracts for a variety of goods and services. Experience with federal contract methods and contract types, which requires specialized experience to plan and carry out pre-award and/or post-award procurement actions. Experience with federal contract administration policy, procedures, techniques, and evaluation/control methods sufficient to monitor prime and subcontractor performance on complex, long term contracts. Experience using negotiation techniques to solicit, award, monitor/terminate assigned products/contracts. Experience communicating through written communications and discussions with vendors/customers. Experience assisting junior specialists with procedures related to contract administration. Education Substitution: Such education must demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to do the work. Education must be from a college or university accredited by an organization approved by the U.S. Department of Education. See http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/Search.aspx. If using education to meet basic qualifications, YOU MUST SUBMIT A TRANSCRIPT as supplemental documentation. To qualify based on education in lieu of specialized experience, you must possess: GS-11: a Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree or, three (3) full years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to such a degree or LL.M. if related. GS-12: Substitution of education may not be used in lieu of specialized experience for this grade level. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.


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