Requirements for GS-9
You qualify at the GS-9 level if you meet the basic requirements and possess one year of specialized experience that equipped you with the skills needed to perform the job duties. This experience must have been equivalent to at least the GS-7 grade level. Examples include reviewing requisitions to determine that proper specifications or purchase descriptions are included in solicitation documents; evaluating bids or proposals for compliance with specifications or purchase descriptions and applicable clauses; and coordinating contracting activities with other Government agencies having interrelated requirements.

Requirements for GS-11
You qualify at the GS-11 level if you meet the basic requirements and possess one year of specialized experience that equipped you with the skills needed to perform the job duties. This experience must have been equivalent to at least the GS-9 grade level. Examples include planning and carrying out pre-award, post-award, price/cost analysis, and other related staff functions in a relatively standardized or controlled work situation using established contracting procedures. It may also include more involved developmental assignments.

What do our contract specialists do?
CBP contract specialists solicit, negotiates, administers, closes-out and terminates purchase orders and contracts. A wide variety of commodities are acquired including furniture, telecommunication equipment, ammunition, surveillance equipment, and various services and maintenance efforts. Additional duties may include developing, implementing and reviewing contracting plans for pre-award, post-award, price/cost analysis and a wide variety of procurement activities. You will also be responsible for providing technical advice, guidance and legal interpretation in all areas of contracting.