Are you seeking a challenging and rewarding career path within the U.S. Army? The Army Contracting Command-APG (Aberdeen Proving Ground) offers an exceptional opportunity through its Contracting Career Intern Program (CP14). This program is designed to cultivate future leaders in Army acquisition, providing a robust foundation in government contracting and a clear trajectory towards becoming a Senior Contract Specialist.
The Army Contracting Command-APG plays a vital role in equipping our warfighters with cutting-edge technology and essential services. As the premier Army leader in acquisition, they are committed to securing the best value for the American taxpayer while ensuring our military has the resources they need. Joining their team as a Contract Specialist Intern means contributing directly to this critical mission.
Discover the Army Contracting Command-APG
The Army Contracting Command-APG is not just another government agency; it’s the backbone of Army procurement. It leads the way in acquiring quality, technologically advanced equipment and services. This command is dedicated to supporting the Army’s needs with efficient and effective contracting solutions. By becoming a part of ACC-APG, you are stepping into a world of impactful work that directly supports national defense.
The Contracting Career Intern Program (CP14): Your Pathway to Success
The Army Contracting Command Contracting Career Cp14 Intern Program is a structured, full-time, 24-month paid program meticulously crafted to transform talented individuals into proficient Contract Specialists. This isn’t just a job; it’s a career accelerator. The program provides a comprehensive learning experience, blending formal training, on-the-job experience, and mentorship, setting you up for long-term success within the Army acquisition field. Your journey starts with a clear goal: to become a Senior Contract Specialist, a highly respected and impactful role within the Army.
What Does a Contract Specialist Do? A Dynamic Role in Army Acquisition
Forget outdated notions of government jobs. Today’s Contract Specialist is a dynamic business professional, a crucial player in the acquisition lifecycle. You’ll be at the forefront of ensuring the Army gets the best possible equipment and services, acting as a strategic partner and business advisor. Your responsibilities will be diverse and impactful, including:
- Market Research Expertise: Identifying potential sources for supplies and services, ensuring a competitive and robust vendor pool.
- Acquisition Strategy Development: Crafting Acquisition Plans to guarantee contracts meet the Army’s needs in form, fit, and function.
- Promoting Competition: Ensuring fair and open competition, engaging both small and large businesses in the contracting process.
- Communication and Collaboration: Maintaining open communication with stakeholders, fostering a collaborative environment to achieve acquisition objectives.
- Solicitation and Negotiation: Publicizing requirements, soliciting proposals, and skillfully negotiating contract terms and pricing.
- Proposal Evaluation and Award: Analyzing contractor proposals and making informed award decisions based on best value.
- Regulatory Compliance: Applying in-depth knowledge of acquisition regulations, policies, and procedures.
- Performance Monitoring: Overseeing contractor performance to ensure quality and timely delivery.
- Milestone Management: Coordinating contract milestones to measure success and ensure projects stay on track.
- E-Business and E-Commerce Utilization: Leveraging state-of-the-art digital tools to streamline acquisition processes.
- Professionalism and Teamwork: Embracing professionalism, fostering team unity, and adhering to the highest ethical and safety standards.
Salary and Benefits: Competitive and Comprehensive
The army contracting command contracting career cp14 intern program recognizes talent and offers a competitive starting salary. You’ll enter as a GS-07, with a defined career progression to GS-11 upon successful program completion. As of January 2013 (note: salary figures may have been updated since then, please verify current rates on official sources like OPM.gov or USAJOBS), the annual salaries within the APG locality area were:
| Grade | Salary |
|---|---|
| GS-07 | $42,631 |
| GS-09 | $52,146 |
| GS-11 | $63,091 |
Beyond the competitive salary, the benefits package is outstanding, reflecting the Army’s commitment to its civilian workforce:
- Generous Leave: Start with 13 vacation days and 13 sick days annually, ensuring work-life balance.
- Health and Insurance: Choose from over 100 health insurance plans, plus comprehensive dental and vision coverage.
- Flexible Work Options: Explore flexible work schedules to accommodate your personal needs.
- Affordable Life Insurance: Secure and affordable life insurance options.
- Overtime Compensation: Regular work hours with overtime pay for additional hours worked.
- Flexible Spending Accounts: Pre-tax flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses.
- Thrift Savings Plan (TSP): A 401(k) equivalent with employer matching up to 5% and an automatic 1% employer contribution – invest in your future!
- Paid Holidays: Enjoy ten paid federal holidays each year.
- On-Post Amenities: Access to a golf course, library, fitness center, and a range of other facilities enhancing your quality of life.
Invest in Your Future: Graduate School Opportunities
The Army Contracting Command-APG is committed to your continuous learning and career growth. Interns are strongly encouraged to pursue a Master’s degree, with potential government reimbursement for tuition (subject to funding availability). You can attend part-time programs, often with evening classes, while working. Furthermore, programs like the “University of Choice” for full-time study may be available to eligible candidates, demonstrating the Army’s investment in your advanced education.
Formal On-the-Job Training: A Multifaceted Approach
Training is at the heart of the intern program. The four-pronged training approach ensures you develop into a well-rounded and highly competent Contract Specialist:
- Formal Schooling: Complete mandatory Department of Defense acquisition courses. These courses provide the foundational knowledge required for your role and lead to Level II certification in Government Contracting – a recognized professional credential. Core leadership courses are also included.
- On-the-Job Training (OJT): Gain practical, hands-on experience by working with a “home team” and a dedicated Contracting Officer. Learn alongside fellow interns and experienced Senior Contract Specialists in a real-world setting.
- Informal In-House Training: Participate in relaxed, intern-group sessions at the Intern Institute. These sessions clarify contracting principles and processes, easing the learning curve in a new field.
- Rotational Cross Training: Explore various facets of the acquisition process through rotations. This broadens your understanding and builds valuable professional networks across different departments.
Who May Apply? Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the army contracting command contracting career cp14 intern program, you must meet specific qualifications:
- U.S. Citizenship: Applicants must be U.S. citizens.
- Education: A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university is required.
- GPA: Maintain an overall GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale.
- Coursework: Possess at least 24 semester hours in any combination of the following fields: Accounting, Business, Finance, Law, Contracts, Purchasing, Economics, Industrial Management, Marketing, Quantitative Methods, Organization, and Management.
Qualification determinations are aligned with the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) standards, ensuring a fair and consistent evaluation process. For detailed OPM qualification standards, refer to https://www.opm.gov/qualifications/.
How Do I Apply? Your Application Guide
Ready to take the first step? Here’s how to apply for the Army Contracting Command Contracting Career CP14 Intern Program:
Your resume must include:
- Full Name
- Current Address
- The specific Position Title you are applying for: Contract Specialist
- Detailed Paid and Unpaid Work Experience:
- Job titles, duties, and accomplishments
- Employer names and addresses
- Supervisor names and phone numbers
- Start and end dates (month and year)
- Hours worked per week
College Transcripts:
- Unofficial transcripts are acceptable for the initial application.
- Official transcripts will be required if you are selected for a position.
Veterans Preference Documentation (if applicable):
- Applicants claiming veterans’ preference MUST submit a DD 214 (Member 4 copy).
- Include supporting documentation such as a Letter from the Veterans Administration.
- Failure to submit required veteran preference documents will result in no preference being granted.
Administrative Careers with America (ACWA) Test:
- You will be required to take an online ACWA written test.
- A link to access the test will be provided for a specific testing period.
Ready to Apply?
Click here to view openings using USAJOBS.
Don’t miss this opportunity to launch a fulfilling and impactful career with the Army Contracting Command Contracting Career CP14 Intern Program!
