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Defense Acquisition University Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Acquisition Analyst

Alexandria, VA ยท On-site

$74K - $101K/yr

Defense Acquisition University Program Management coursework * Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act (DAWIA) certification in program management or contracting areas * Experience with Counter ...

Acquisition Analyst

Alexandria, VA ยท On-site

$74K - $101K/yr

Defense Acquisition University Program Management coursework * Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act (DAWIA) certification in program management or contracting areas * Experience with Counter ...

Acquisition Analyst

Albuquerque, NM ยท On-site

$74K - $100K/yr

Defense Acquisition University Program Management coursework. * Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act (DAWIA) certification in program management or contracting. * Experience with Counter ...

Acquisition Analyst

Albuquerque, NM ยท On-site

$74K - $100K/yr

Defense Acquisition University Program Management coursework. * Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act (DAWIA) certification in program management or contracting. * Experience with Counter ...

New

DAWIA or Defense Acquisition University (DAU) coursework or certification. * NCMA certifications (CFCM, CCCM, or CPCM). * Experience supporting major defense acquisition programs. Clearance ...

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Defense Acquisition University information

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$23.5K

$79K

$158.5K

How much do defense acquisition university jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense acquisition university in the United States is $78,954.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,500.00 and $100,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of career development opportunities are available for faculty and staff at Defense Acquisition University?

Faculty and staff at Defense Acquisition University (DAU) benefit from various professional development programs, including ongoing training, certifications, and leadership development initiatives tailored to the defense acquisition field. Employees are encouraged to pursue advanced education and participate in specialized workshops, often with access to tuition assistance or reimbursement. DAU supports career progression through mentorship programs and opportunities to work on cross-functional teams, which help enhance both technical and leadership skills. This supportive environment fosters continuous learning and advancement within the federal acquisition community.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Defense Acquisition University (DAU) instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a DAU instructor, you need expertise in defense acquisition processes, relevant industry experience, and often a bachelor's or advanced degree in a related field. Familiarity with DoD acquisition systems, e-learning platforms, and certifications like DAWIA are typically required. Strong communication, adaptability, and mentorship abilities help you effectively train and guide acquisition professionals. These skills ensure high-quality education, support workforce development, and uphold defense acquisition standards.

What is Defense Acquisition University?

Defense Acquisition University (DAU) is a corporate university of the United States Department of Defense (DoD) that provides professional education and training for military and civilian personnel involved in acquisition, technology, and logistics. DAU offers courses, certifications, and resources to help individuals develop the skills needed to manage and oversee defense acquisition programs. Its mission is to support the DoD in delivering effective, efficient, and innovative solutions for national defense by ensuring the acquisition workforce is knowledgeable and capable.

What is the difference between Defense Acquisition University vs Contract Specialist?

AspectDefense Acquisition UniversityContract Specialist
Required CredentialsProfessional development courses, certifications in acquisitionCertifications like FAC-C, DAWIA, and contracting licenses
Work EnvironmentEducational institution, training environmentGovernment agencies, contracting offices
Employer & IndustryDepartment of Defense, federal governmentFederal government agencies, defense contractors

Defense Acquisition University provides training and certification programs for acquisition professionals, while Contract Specialists are individuals working within government agencies responsible for procurement and contracting. The university offers the education needed to become a Contract Specialist, making them closely related but distinct roles within the defense acquisition field.

More about Defense Acquisition University jobs
What cities are hiring for Defense Acquisition University jobs? Cities with the most Defense Acquisition University job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Defense Acquisition University jobs? The most popular types of Defense Acquisition University jobs are:
What states have the most Defense Acquisition University jobs? States with the most job openings for Defense Acquisition University jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Defense Acquisition University jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Defense Acquisition University jobs are:
Infographic showing various Defense Acquisition University job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,954 per year, or $38 per hour.

Acquisition Analyst

ARServices

Alexandria, VA โ€ข On-site

$74K - $101K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Overview
ARServices delivers innovative program management, financial, technical, and advisory solutions that advance national security missions across the Federal Government. With deep expertise supporting the Department of Defense, Intelligence Community, and other national security agencies, we help our customers address complex Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction (CWMD) and CBRNE challenges through responsive, mission-focused solutions that strengthen operational readiness and protect the nation.ย Build a career that supports the mission. ARServices partners with defense, intelligence, and federal civilian agencies to solve complex national security challenges. Explore opportunities to join our team at https://arslimited.com/careers/
Why Work at ARServices?
At ARServices, your work has purpose. Every day, our employees help solve complex challenges that strengthen national security and support critical government missions. We invest in talented professionals by fostering a collaborative, mission-focused culture where innovation is encouraged, contributions are recognized, and career growth is supported. Guided by our core values of Agility, Reliability, and Success, we empower our people to make an impact, both for our customers and for the future.
Position Description
ARServices is seeking an experiencedย Acquisition Analystย to provide Advisory and Assistance Services (A&AS) support to the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) Research and Development Directorate. The successful candidate will support DoD acquisition activities, budget execution, and RDT&E program management for classified CWMD programs. Responsibilities include, but may not be limited to developing acquisition documentation, managing spend plans, tracking financial performance, and providing analytical support to advance technology development and warfighter capabilities.
The qualified candidate will support all phases of acquisition planning for CWMD research and development requirements by providing acquisition strategy recommendations, evaluating procurement approaches, and conducting market research to identify capable vendors, technologies, and services that meet mission objectives.ย 
A qualified candidate will perform the following duties and responsibilities, but are not limited to
  • Prepare solicitation documentation to include Needs Statements, Statements of Work, Independent Government Cost Estimates, contract structures and evaluation factors
  • Conduct analysis of alternatives for acquisition and contracting options
  • Conduct comprehensive Risk Analysis related to contracts and projectsย ย 
  • Provide cost estimating, life-cycle costing, and cost-benefit analyses in support of acquisition options
  • Plan, coordinate, integrate, implement, and evaluate the use of available acquisition methods
  • Review program documentation to ensure technical validity and facilitate cross-communication regarding program priorities and courses of action
  • Participate in Integrated Product Teams and serve as acquisition point of contact
  • Track cost, schedule, and performance parameters of current contracts and projects
  • Support the development of contract option execution documentation
  • Assist with tracking project expenditures and development/maintenance of program review materials
  • Ensure acquisition planning is compliant with Federal Acquisition Regulation, DoD Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement, other DoD Acquisition Directives, and DTRA-specific Acquisition Directives and program management direction
Required Qualifications
  • Current DoD Top Secret clearance with access to SCI
  • Bachelor or Masterโ€™s degree in a discipline relating to acquisition, program management, or business
  • Minimum of ten years of experience in DoD contract and acquisition planning
  • Experience with DoD Research and Development (R&D) programs
  • Extensive knowledge of Federal Acquisition Regulation, Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement, DoD Directive 5000 series and other DoD acquisition and contracting policies
  • Documented experience with DoD acquisition pathways
Security Clearance Requirements
Current DoD Top Secret (TS) Security Clearance with SCI access.
Location & Travel
This is a full-time position based at DTRA Headquarters in Fort Belvoir, VA, with minimal travel expected.
Preferred Qualifications
  • MA degree in Acquisition or Contracting.
  • Experience as a warranted government contracting officer
  • Certification as a Federal Contracts Manager (CFCM)
  • Defense Acquisition University Program Management coursework
  • Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act (DAWIA) certification in program management or contracting areas
  • Experience with Counter Weapons of Mass Destruction (CWMD) R&D programs
  • Previous Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act (DAWIA) certification at level 2 or 3
  • Experience at DTRA
  • Experience managing R&D at a DoD or Department of Energy Lab
Total Rewards
At ARServices, we recognize that our employees are our greatest asset. We are committed to providing competitive compensation, meaningful career development opportunities, and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, financial well-being, and work-life balance. Our offerings include medical, dental, and vision insurance, life and disability coverage, a 401(k) retirement plan with company match, paid time off, paid holidays, professional development opportunities, and employee wellness resources. Eligible employees may also participate in additional company-sponsored programs and benefits. We are proud to foster a culture built on Agility, Reliability, and Success, where employees are recognized for their contributions and empowered to grow their careers while supporting critical national security missions.
Compensation at ARServices is determined based on a variety of job-related factors, including education, relevant experience, certifications, knowledge, skills, competencies, internal equity, external market considerations, geographic location, security clearance level, contract labor category and funding requirements, organizational needs, and applicable federal, state, and local laws. The projected compensation range for this position is based on full time status. Actual starting compensation will be determined based on the selected candidate's qualifications and the factors identified above. For part-time positions, compensation will be adjusted proportionately based on scheduled hours worked.
Posted Salary Range
USD $140,875.00 โ€“ USD $200,287.00 / Yr.
Equal Employment Opportunity
ARServices is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to fostering a workplace where employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, business needs, and performance. We consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, pregnancy or related medical conditions, protected veteran status, military status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
Reasonable Accommodation
ARServices is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities throughout the application and employment process. If you require an accommodation to participate in the application or interview process, perform the essential functions of a position, or access other employment benefits, please contact our Talent Acquisition team for assistance.