Contracting Officer

We are in search of a highly experienced Procurement Specialist to support a high-profile federal judicial organization with nationwide responsibilities. This office manages complex and sensitive procurement actions that directly influence federal operations across the country.

• Due to increased workload and reduced internal contracting capacity, the procurement division is experiencing a significant backlog of contract renewals, purchase orders, and critical acquisition tasks. We are seeking a professional who can step in immediately, stabilize operations, improve workflow efficiency, and ensure ongoing compliance across all procurement activities.

• This is an excellent opportunity for a seasoned federal contracting professional who thrives in a high-impact, mission-driven environment and enjoys solving complex procurement challenges.

• Location: Washington, DC (Onsite Only)
• Schedule: Full-Time, Monday–Friday
• Work Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (No remote work permitted)

• Key Responsibilities
• Procurement & Contract Management
• Serve as a Contracting Officer responsible for purchasing supplies, equipment, services, and consumables.
• Process purchase orders using a federal financial management system.
• Manage contracts throughout their lifecycle: initiation, award, performance, modifications, and closeout.
• Review contract documents prior to execution, providing recommendations or required revisions.
• Prepare and post RFQs, RFPs, and RFIs in accordance with federal procurement procedures.
• Verify funding authorization and availability before processing purchase requests.
• Compliance, Controls & Policy Adherence
• Ensure compliance with federal procurement regulations, internal controls, and appropriations law.
• Maintain separation of duties and strict audit and record retention standards.
• Support internal and external audits by compiling documentation and responding to inquiries.
• Uphold confidentiality and security requirements for sensitive procurement information.
• Tracking, Reporting & Documentation
• Develop and maintain tracking systems for obligations, commitments, deobligations, and expenditures.
• Track subscription renewals, cancellations, and transfers.
• Prepare procurement activity reports for leadership review.
• Maintain complete and accurate procurement documentation and reconcile related financial accounts.
• Document receipt of goods/services and coordinate tagging, inventory, and property management.

Vendor & Stakeholder Coordination

• Research and evaluate vendors based on price, quality, reliability, and compliance.
• Maintain vendor source lists and coordinate with suppliers regarding delivery timelines.
• Resolve order delays and support contract administration activities.
• Clarify requirements and address vendor performance issues.
• Negotiate pricing and terms for goods and contracted services.
• Travel & Administrative Support
• Review and process travel authorizations and obligate travel funds.
• Respond to procurement inbox inquiries within two business days and track all action items to completion.
• Provide weekly written summaries of completed tasks, including any barriers affecting progress.

• Required Qualifications
• Minimum five (5) years of progressively responsible federal contracting experience.
• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, Finance, Accounting, or related field.
• High school diploma or GED required.
• Demonstrated knowledge of:
• Federal procurement regulations
• Appropriations law
• Federal or judicial procurement frameworks
• Experience processing purchase orders and managing procurement in a federal setting.
• Proficiency with federal financial management systems and Microsoft Office.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment with minimal supervision.
• Must be a U.S. citizen to meet federal background investigation and suitability requirements.
• Ability to pass a federal background check and fingerprinting process.
• Choose 1st Choice — we care about our people, offer great benefits, and create real opportunities to grow. With 20 years of nationwide staffing success, we're here to help you thrive. We’re an equal opportunity employer and welcome all qualified applicants.