What has been your experience with Gov Contracting jobs CONUS and OCONUS?

2016-01-16T12:32:07-05:00

Looking at applying for a couple of Gov Contracting jobs(Security) both CONUS and OCONUS. Any Retirees or former Military have any experience doing this? I've done my due diligence ie: web search the company, looked at reviews etc.

Just looking for a little insight to those that may have done this.

Response by SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL made Jan 16 at 2016 12:36 PM

2016-01-16T12:36:36-05:00

SFC Private RallyPoint Member I am seeking a job in contracting myself in the Hampton Roads area. I know DLA offers contracting jobs as well as the VA. I am searching high and low my self. I used to be a Assistant Contracting Officer Representative. Also try the DCMA(Defense Contracting Management Agency).

Response by CAPT Kevin B. made Jan 16 at 2016 1:39 PM

2016-01-16T13:39:39-05:00

As a former Contracting Officer and facilities administrator, I can give you some nuggets that affect the employees of security firms hired to perform a variety of services. First, there are minimum wages under the Service Contract Act. They are lower than Davis-Bacon (construction) but at least there is a bottom end. The Government does not involve itself in employee performance or disciplinary matters. That's up to the contractor. However, issues with a specific employee that is a problem on base can result in their base access privilege being revoked, hence you get fired. Doing hard work, getting a raise or two can be wiped out overnight when the contract is resolicited. A new contractor who bid minimum usually brings in their own people (management core) and then "offers" current employees an opportunity to hire on, but usually back at the minimum. There are exceptions so some middle continuity is retained. My experience with service contracts is virtually all new contractors cut too much corporate memory, hence the mistake cycle repeats. You can look up SCA wage rates on line.

Security clearance is different for your MIL vs. contracted service. If you currently have one, it streamlines the process. If employees are required to have a clearance, there are provisions in the contract for the contractor to have their own security office and process employee paperwork through the contract administrators security office.

Be prepared to bounce among the firms unless you get into their management group but are then expected to move to where the contracts are. Make sure you have a transportable 401 plan. Good luck.

Response by PO1 Brian Austin made Jan 16 at 2016 4:12 PM

2016-01-16T16:12:40-05:00

If you go OCONUS be sure to check into the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion, IRS Pub 54.
If you meet the requirements (330 full days outside the US in 12 mon. period) the first $101K (as of 2016) is tax free. When the time comes for your taxes, go to a tax guy who's experienced in doing this.

Also network with your fellow contractors. Never know when it might come in handy down the road.

Best of luck!