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Government Contracting Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sparks Group

Contracting Officer

Leesburg, VA · On-site +1

$35 - $42/hr

Sparks Group has partnered with a renowned local government authority seeking an experienced Contracting Officer to provide temporary procurement and contracting support within a large public-sector ...

MbSolutions Inc

Contract Specialist IV

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Obtains certified and other than certified cost and pricing data as required. 1.6.4 Processes contract awards for government Contracting Officer signature. Prepares and distributes award packages and ...

Caltech

Contracting Officer

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$86K - $90K/yr

Job Summary The Contracting Officer reports to the Purchasing Contracting Manager and is a key ... Experience with government procurement and government property accountability. Required Documents

MbSolutions Inc

Contract Specialist IV

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Obtains certified and other than certified cost and pricing data as required. 1.6.4 Processes contract awards for government Contracting Officer signature. Prepares and distributes award packages and ...

MbSolutions Inc

Contract Specialist IV

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Obtains certified and other than certified cost and pricing data as required.1.6.4 Processes contract awards for government Contracting Officer signature. Prepares and distributes awardpackages and ...

MbSolutions Inc

Contract Specialist IV

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Obtains certified and other than certified cost and pricing data as required.1.6.4 Processes contract awards for government Contracting Officer signature. Prepares and distributes awardpackages and ...

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Government Contracting Officer information

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$19K

$77.3K

$113K

How much do government contracting officer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for government contracting officer in the United States is $77,308.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,500.00 and $83,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a government contracting officer?

A Government Contracting Officer is an official who has the legal authority to enter into, administer, and terminate contracts on behalf of a government agency. They ensure that all procurement processes comply with federal regulations and oversee the negotiation, award, and management of contracts for goods and services. Contracting Officers play a crucial role in ensuring the government receives fair value and that contractors fulfill their obligations according to the contract terms. They also act as the primary point of contact between the government and contractors throughout the contract lifecycle.

What are some common challenges faced by government contracting officers during the procurement process?

Government Contracting Officers often navigate complex regulations and compliance requirements, such as the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR). Balancing the needs of various stakeholders while ensuring fair competition and transparency can be challenging. Additionally, tight deadlines and shifting project scopes require strong organizational and negotiation skills. Successful Contracting Officers proactively communicate with vendors, legal teams, and internal departments to address potential issues before they impact project timelines.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a government contracting officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Government Contracting Officer, you need a solid understanding of federal acquisition regulations, contract law, and procurement processes, typically supported by a relevant bachelor’s degree and specialized training such as FAC-C or DAWIA certification. Familiarity with contract management systems, e-procurement tools, and compliance tracking software is essential. Strong negotiation, attention to detail, and ethical decision-making are standout soft skills for this role. These skills are crucial for ensuring fair, legal, and effective government procurement activities that protect public resources and meet organizational goals.

What is the difference between Government Contracting Officer vs Contract Specialist?

AspectGovernment Contracting OfficerContract Specialist
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree, often with certifications like DAWIA or FAC-CUsually holds a bachelor's degree, with some roles requiring certifications like DAWIA or equivalent
Work EnvironmentWorks within government agencies, managing contracts and negotiationsSupports contract administration, often within government or contractor organizations
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, defense, and federal contractingGovernment agencies, contractors, and consulting firms
Search & Comparison IntentInterested in roles with contracting authority and negotiation responsibilitiesFocused on contract administration and support functions

The main difference is that a Government Contracting Officer has the authority to negotiate, modify, and sign contracts on behalf of the government, while a Contract Specialist primarily supports contract administration and compliance. Both roles require similar credentials and work within the government contracting industry, but their responsibilities and decision-making authority differ.

Does government contracting officer pay well?

Government contracting officers typically earn a competitive salary that varies based on experience, location, and level of responsibility. They often receive benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for career advancement, with salaries generally aligned with federal or state pay scales. Certification and specialized knowledge can also influence earning potential.

How do you become a government contracting officer?

To become a government contracting officer, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in business, management, or a related field, along with experience in procurement or contract management. Certification such as the Federal Acquisition Certification in Contracting (FAC-C) is often required or preferred, and candidates must pass background checks and security clearances depending on the agency.
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What cities are hiring for Government Contracting Officer jobs?

Cities with the most Government Contracting Officer job openings:

What states have the most Government Contracting Officer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Government Contracting Officer jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Government Contracting Officer jobs?

For Government Contracting Officer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Government Contracting Officer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Government Contracting Officer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $77,308 per year, or $37.2 per hour.

Contracting Officer

Washington, DC • On-site, Remote

Central Intelligence Agency
10K+ employees
Learn more about Central Intelligence Agencyexternal

$82K - $158K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Summary
Contracting Officers streamline the acquisition process, maximize resources, and negotiate and manage complex contracts such as fixed-price and cost-reimbursement contracts.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
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As a Contracting Officer for CIA, you will be part of a highly motivated team that provides critical support to U.S. national security. Working alongside Agency and other Intelligence Community colleagues, you will apply your business skills to diverse programs for technical collection systems, construction projects, information technology initiatives, and more.
At CIA, only the Contracting Officer is legally authorized to financially obligate the U.S. Government to acquire its products and services. Working in a team environment, you will learn and utilize innovative business practices to streamline the acquisition process and maximize resources. You will also negotiate and manage a wide variety of unique and complex contract types, such as fixed-price and cost-reimbursement contracts, to obtain the best value on behalf of the U.S. Government.
Contracting Officers are hired at various experience levels, from entry to full performance positions. You will be provided with progressively more on-the-job experiences and related training and development programs, enabling you to achieve your career goals while supporting mission needs.
Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • You must be physically in the United States or one of its territories when you submit your resume via MyLINK.
  • You must be registered for the Selective Service, if applicable.
  • You must be a U.S. citizen and at least 18 years of age (dual-national US citizens are eligible).
  • You must be willing to move to the Washington, DC area.
  • You must successfully complete a thorough medical and psychological exam, a polygraph interview, and a comprehensive background investigation.
  • For further information, please visit: https://www.cia.gov/careers/how-we-hire

Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications
Interested candidates should be passionate about the ideals of our American republic, committed to upholding the rule of law and the U.S. Constitution, and committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government. Hiring decisions will not be based on race, sex, color, religion, or national origin.
  • Strong analytic and critical thinking skills
  • Exceptional customer service skills
  • Excellent written and verbal communications skills
  • Attention to administrative detail
  • Ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment
  • Ability to meet the minimum requirements for joining CIA, including U.S. citizenship and a background investigation

Desired Qualifications
  • Demonstrated experience with and knowledge of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) guidelines and U.S. Government contracting
  • At least one of the following designations
    • Certified Federal Contracts Manager (CFCM)
    • Certified Commercial Contracts Manager (CCCM)
    • Certified Professional Contracts Manager (CPCM)
    • Defense Acquisitions Workforce Improvement Act (DAWIA) certification
  • Federal or military contracting experience
  • Experiences conducting a wide range of acquisition lifecycle activities, including
    • Acquisition planning
    • Contract awarding and closeout activities
    • Source selection
    • Firm fixed-price contracts
    • Cost and price analysis and negotiation experience
    • Cost plus and cost reimbursement
  • Advanced degree in Business, Public Administration, or Law
  • Demonstrated excellent:
    • Interpersonal skills
    • Verbal and written communication skills
    • Customer service

Education
  • Bachelor's or master's degree in one of the following
    • Accounting
    • Business Administration
    • Communications
    • Economics
    • English
    • Finance
    • Management
    • Pre-Law
    • Supply Chain Management
  • At least a 3.0 GPA on a 4-point scale

Additional information
Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Review our benefits
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

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