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Contract Specialist Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Kaiva Corp

Contract Specialist

Rockville, MD · On-site

Kaiva Tech, LLC is seeking a Contract Specialist in Rockville, MD Reports To : Kaiva Program Manager Location : Onsite Rockville, MD Schedule : Monday - Friday Hours : Full-time, 40-hours/week FLSA ...

Kaiva Corp

Contract Specialist

Rockville, MD · On-site

Kaiva Tech, LLC is seeking a Contract Specialist in Rockville, MD Reports To : Kaiva Program Manager Location : Onsite Rockville, MD Schedule : Monday - Friday Hours : Full-time, 40-hours/week FLSA ...

Kaiva Tech

Contract Specialist

Rockville, MD

Kaiva Tech, LLC is seeking a Contract Specialist in Rockville, MD Reports To : Kaiva Program Manager Location : Onsite Rockville, MD Schedule : Monday - Friday Hours : Full-time, 40-hours/week FLSA ...

Kaiva Corp

Contract Specialist

Rockville, MD · On-site

Kaiva Tech, LLC is seeking a Contract Specialist in Rockville, MD Reports To : Kaiva Program Manager Location : Onsite Rockville, MD Schedule : Monday - Friday Hours : Full-time, 40-hours/week FLSA ...

Kaiva Corp

Contract Specialist

Rockville, MD · On-site

Kaiva Tech, LLC is seeking a Contract Specialist in Rockville, MDReports To: Kaiva Program ManagerLocation: Onsite Rockville, MDSchedule: Monday - FridayHours: Full-time, 40-hours/weekFLSA Status:

ECS

Contract Specialist

Arlington, VA · On-site

$90K - $150K/yr

ECS is seeking a Contract Specialist to work in our Arlington, VA office. Are you looking for an exciting opportunity to make an impact in the world of defense contracting? Join our team as a ...

U.S. Coast Guard

Contract Specialist

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$121K - $158K/yr

Serving as a Senior Contract Specialist responsible for procurements that contain a number of different processes or elements resulting in extensive contract administration and subcontracting.

SiloSmashers

Contract Specialist II

Arlington, VA · On-site

Contract Specialist II SiloSmashers is seeking an experienced Contracts Specialist to support our federal law enforcement client with contract, acquisition, and procurement support within their ...

SiloSmashers

Contract Specialist II

Arlington, VA · On-site

Contract Specialist IISiloSmashers is seeking an experienced Contracts Specialist to support our federal law enforcement client with contract, acquisition, and procurement support within their ...

Chenega MIOS

Contract Specialist III

Washington, DC · On-site

Contract Specialist III * Washington, DC Come join one of the fastest growing Alaskan Native Owned Small Businesses! Contract Specialist III Washington, DC Are you ready to enhance your skills and ...

SiloSmashers

Contract Specialist II

Arlington, VA

Contract Specialist II SiloSmashers is seeking an experienced Contracts Specialist to support our federal law enforcement client with contract, acquisition, and procurement support within their ...

AdNet LLC

Contract Specialist

Washington, DC · On-site

$70 - $100/hr

Contract Specialist Location: Washington, DC metropolitan area Employment Type: On-site, Full-Time, Contract Contract Duration: Up to six months Schedule: 40 hours per week Position Overview We are ...

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All JobsContract Specialist JobsContract Specialist Jobs in Reston, VA

Contract Specialist information

See Reston, VA salary details

$40.1K

$84.6K

$122.8K

How much do contract specialist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract specialist in Reston, VA is $84,579.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,300.00 and $102,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 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.

Is a contract specialist a hard job?

A contract specialist's job involves reviewing, negotiating, and managing contracts, which requires attention to detail, strong communication skills, and knowledge of legal and regulatory requirements. The role can be demanding due to tight deadlines and the need for accuracy, but it is generally manageable with proper training and experience.

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 Certified Commercial Contracts Manager (CCCM). These certifications demonstrate expertise in contract law, procurement processes, and negotiation skills, and may be required or preferred by employers depending on the industry and level of responsibility.
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The most popular types of Specialist jobs in Reston, VA are:

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Cities near Reston, VA with the most Contract Specialist job openings:

Contract Specialist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Specialist job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 60% In-person, 7% Hybrid, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,579 per year, or $40.7 per hour.

Contract Specialist - HYBRID

Zachary Piper Solutions

Arlington, VA • On-site

$120 - $175/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Zachary Piper Solutions is looking for a Contract Specialist in the Arlington, VA area. hybrid and requires 1 day on-site per week. The Contract Specialist will join a highly respected Department of Defense Research organization supporting initiatives that impact national security and technological advancement.

Responsibilities for the Contract Specialist:
  • Prepare and administer Department of Defense Research & Development (FAR Part 35) contracts
  • Assist in the negotiation of contract terms and conditions with government and contractor personnel
  • Prepare contract modifications and maintain accurate contract documentation
  • Analyze procurement policies and procedures to ensure compliance with federal regulations
  • Perform cost and price analysis and support the development of cost proposals
  • Prepare and maintain contract file documentation in accordance with FAR, DFARS, and other applicable regulations
Qualifications for the Contract Specialist:
  • 6-12 years of experience in government procurement
  • Active Secret Clearance required
  • Procurement Desktop Defense (PD2) experience
  • Full cradle-to-grave contract administration experience
  • Department of Defense contracting experience preferred
  • Experience preparing cost proposals, negotiating terms and conditions of contracts, preparing contract modifications, administering contracts or subcontracts, and analyzing cost and prices
  • Experience working with DFARS regulations and OTAs
Compensation for the Contract Specialist:
  • Salary: $120,000-$175,000 based on professional experience
  • Comprehensive Benefits Package: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, PTO, Sick Leave as required by law, and Holidays

This job was posted on August 31, 2026 and will be open for 30 days.

#LI-AK #LI-Hybrid

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