**Description** Applied Research Solutions is seeking a full-time Acquisition Specialist located at MacDill AFB, FL in support of Special Operations Forces Acquisition, Technology and Logistics’ (SOF AT&L) Acquisition Operations (AO) Partnered Operations Directorate. Partnered Operations is committed to operationally focused acquisition activities that enhance the global SOF network through SOF AT&L engagement at the operational level. **Why Work with us?** Applied Research Solutions (ARS) is respected as a world-class provider of technically integrated solutions as we deliver premier talent and technology across our focused markets for unparalleled, continuous mission support. Awarded a Best Places to Work nominee since 2020, ARS recognizes that without our career- driven, loyal professionals, we would not be able to deliver state-of-the-art results for our mission partners. We firmly believe that prioritizing our employees is of the upmost importance. We provide a culture where our employees are challenged to meet their career goals and aspirations, while still obtaining a work/life balance. ARS employees are motivated through our industry competitive benefits package, our awards and recognition program, and personalized attention from ARS Senior Managers. **Responsibilities Include:** + Collect and analyze metrics and requirements from supported organizations + Develop elements of program acquisition strategies + Support/conduct portions of market research + Keep program information current and organize data to submit to management for decision making + Prepare reports and briefings on program status, policies and procedures, in support of acquisition program milestones + Support cost/benefit analysis + Analyze effectiveness and efficiency of program; develop recommendations to improve program operations. + Answer data calls and inquiries on program policies and procedures + Participate in requirements development process in support of Senior Managers and Government counterparts. + Monitor programs to ensure compliance with policies and procedures + Manage program cost, schedule, performance, and risks in accordance to policies and procedures; formulate proposed mitigations as necessary. + Coordinate program information with personnel. + Interpret regulations and directives to determine impact on programs. + Ability to communicate effectively, both oral and written. + Ability to perform as part of a diverse team + Strong working Knowledge of Microsoft (MS) Office Suite software. + Knowledge of methods and techniques of fact-finding, analysis and resolution of complex contracting problems, and the ability to develop concrete action plans to solve problems. + Working knowledge of the Defense Acquisition System as directed by DoD Instruction 5000.02, “Operation of the Defense Acquisition System” + Working knowledge of the Defense Acquisition Framework process. + Knowledge of business practices and market conditions applicable to program and technical acquisition requirements. + Knowledge of price and cost analysis sufficient to review proposals, actual and estimated expenditures and established rates to determine price reasonableness or to determine a negotiation position. Ability to properly apply funding rules associated with the obligation of multiple types of appropriations. + Ability to apply precedents found in government contracting case law to specific contracting situations to ensure that legally binding contracting officer decisions are consistent, justifiable and will be upheld at appellate courts or boards. + Knowledge of contracting negotiation, administration and termination principles, policies, procedures and technical requirements applicable to the full range of contracting actions for a variety of contract types. + Working knowledge of Project management/scheduling software programs such as MS Project. + Knowledge of principles and practices of teambuilding. Ability to establish performance goals and assess progress toward their achievement. + Ability to adjust work operations and program objectives to meet emergencies, changing programs or production requirements within available resources and with minimum sacrifice of quality or quantity of work. + Experience and knowledge of PEO/Directorate Lead's internal and external stakeholder organizations is highly desirable. + Experience with task management systems, proficient in building executive level briefings, and able to apply acquisition experience to formulation and consolidation of official responses to taskers, RFIs, etc. + Other duties as assigned **Qualifications/ Technical Experience Requirements:** + Must be a US Citizen + Must have a TS/SCI security clearance + DAWIA Practitioner Equivalency IAW the PWS (DAWIA level II equivalent), and in the Program Management field, and completed DAWIA Level II non-resident course prerequisites in Program Management. + Desired International Certifications: Security Cooperation certification in Security Management + Required Unique Expertise: In addition to the 3 years experience required, require +2 years of security cooperation experience. All positions at Applied Research Solutions are subject to background investigations. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background investigation including criminal history and identity check. This contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-741.5(a). This regulation prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals on the basis of disability, and requires affirmative action by covered prime contractors and subcontractors to employ and advance in employment qualified individuals with disabilities. This contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-300.5(a). This regulation prohibits discrimination against qualified protected veterans, and requires affirmative action by covered contractors and subcontractors to employ and advance in employment qualified protected veterans. Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)