At a Glance
- Tasks: Learn and apply contracting methods to procure goods and services.
- Company: Join a dynamic team at RAF Lakenheath with growth opportunities.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, 25 days leave, and on-site perks.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in contracting with hands-on training and real impact.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's degree required; experience in procurement is a plus.
- Other info: Flexible working hours and potential for travel.
The predicted salary is between 11 - 23 £ per hour.
Location: RAF Lakenheath
Vacancy Number: 087446
Open Date: 2 February 2026
Close Date: 9 February 2026
Work Hours Per Week: 37.5
Salary (Per Hour): £14.19-£31.45
This is a developmental position. You will be provided with job progression training for completion of the requirements of this position. Several vacancies may be available - multiple selections may be made.
Responsibilities:
- S-07 - You’ll learn and use various contracting methods to procure a wide range of goods and services, primarily through formal advertising, with some negotiation.
- S-09 - You will handle defined pre-award and post-award duties for standard procurements. You’ll use advertising and negotiation to acquire services and supplies, mainly through fixed-price contracts, and provide business advice to customers.
- S-11 - You will gain experience in all phases of contracting, from pre-award to post-award. You will use a variety of contract methods to procure goods and services for a specific organizational or geographical area and advise customers on business matters.
- S-12 - You will provide business advice and handle all pre-award and post-award functions for complex and specialized procurements across diverse programs, using a wide range of contracting methods.
Benefits:
- Competitive salary: the starting salary for this position is £14.19 per hour.
- Holiday: 25 days Annual Leave + UK Bank Holidays.
- Paid Sick Leave.
- Pension Scheme.
- Free On-Site Parking.
- Employee extras such as: Life Assurance scheme, Employee Assistance Program, Specialized Training, Development Opportunities, Fitness Facilities, Receive time off, cash, and honorary awards for significant contributions.
Key Skills:
- Knowledge of commonly used contracting methods sufficient to perform procurement functions when the contract actions are well defined and well precedented.
- Knowledge of contract negotiation techniques, and the laws, regulations and precedents governing procurements by this method, to perform developmental assignments; and of business practices and market conditions as they relate to program and technical requirements sufficient to evaluate bid responsiveness, contractor responsibility, and contractor performance.
- Knowledge of report writing techniques to present factual information clearly, write procurement memoranda, and draft simple contract provisions and supporting documentation.
- Skill in solving practical problems relating to supplies, services, and/or construction matters as they relate to the development of specifications or to contract administration involving product quality.
- Skill in dealing with others in a work relationship to present information orally and to accomplish a given purpose.
- Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; and plan, organize work, and meet deadlines.
Conditions of Employment:
- You will be required to handle and safeguard sensitive information in accordance with applicable US and UK laws, rules and regulations.
- You may be required to travel by military and/or civilian aircraft and you may also be required to travel to the US or other country, in the performance of official duties or attend necessary training, this position may also be coded as mission essential.
- You will be required to complete a 6-month probationary period.
- Overtime may be required, and you may be assigned other duties not included in this position description, but that are appropriate to the grade and skill set of the incumbent.
- Must be able to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
- In accordance with security regulations, appropriately handles and safeguards sensitive material to reduce potential compromise.
- The employee must meet the Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act (DAWIA) requirements applicable to the duties of the position.
- Your work hours will be 37.5 hours per week on a fixed schedule (Mon-Fri 0800-1630) where start & end times may be modified due to mission needs and in accordance with the organization’s flexible working policies.
- You will require a security clearance and a right to work in the UK.
Qualification Requirements:
- S-07 - Bachelor degree in any major field together with one of the items below: One full year of graduate education/ Law school or superior academic achievement/ One year of specialized experience.
- S-09 - Bachelor degree in any major field together with one of the items below: Two full academic years of progressively higher level graduate education/ Masters degree/ Equivalent law degree/ One year of specialized experience at the S-07 level.
- S-11 - Bachelor degree in any major field together with one of the items below: Three full academic years of progressively higher lever graduate education/ PhD/ Equivalent degree doctoral/ One year of specialized experience at the S-09 level.
- S-12 - Bachelor degree in any major field together with one year of specialized experience at the S-11 level.
This position may have certain restrictions to US citizens including US dual nationals due to the Status of Forces Agreement.
For additional information contact the LNDH team on 01638 544955.
Application:
Supporting Documents to be submitted via email to 100fss.fsmc6@us.af.mil
Contract Specialist (Developmental) in Lakenheath employer: US Visiting Forces
Contact Detail:
US Visiting Forces Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Contract Specialist (Developmental) in Lakenheath
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the contracting field, especially those who work at RAF Lakenheath. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info on the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of contracting methods and negotiation techniques. We want you to shine when discussing how you can handle pre-award and post-award duties!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your problem-solving skills! Think of examples where you've tackled challenges related to supplies or services. This will help us see how you can contribute to the team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step.
We think you need these skills to ace Contract Specialist (Developmental) in Lakenheath
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully: Before you start writing, make sure to read through the job description thoroughly. It’ll give you a clear idea of what we’re looking for and help you tailor your application to highlight the skills and experiences that match our needs.
Showcase Your Relevant Experience: When detailing your experience, focus on the skills and knowledge that relate directly to the Contract Specialist role. Use specific examples to demonstrate how you've successfully handled similar tasks or challenges in the past.
Keep It Clear and Concise: We appreciate clarity! Make sure your application is well-structured and easy to read. Avoid jargon and keep your sentences straightforward. This will help us quickly see why you’d be a great fit for the team.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the necessary details and links there to make the process smooth.
How to prepare for a job interview at US Visiting Forces
✨Know Your Contracting Methods
Familiarise yourself with various contracting methods before the interview. Understand how formal advertising and negotiation work, as these are key aspects of the role. Being able to discuss specific methods and their applications will show your preparedness.
✨Brush Up on Relevant Laws and Regulations
Make sure you have a solid grasp of the laws and regulations governing procurement. This knowledge is crucial for the position and will help you answer questions confidently. Consider reviewing recent changes or case studies that highlight these regulations in action.
✨Practice Your Communication Skills
Since effective communication is vital for this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. You might want to do mock interviews with a friend or family member, focusing on explaining complex concepts simply and effectively.
✨Prepare Questions for Your Interviewers
Have a list of insightful questions ready to ask your interviewers. This shows your interest in the role and helps you gauge if the company culture aligns with your values. Ask about training opportunities or how success is measured in the position.