I'm a U.S. Army veteran in college full time, almost finished with my bachelor degree in Business Admin. I've almost exhausted my G.I. Bill, and in the process of switching to the VA's Vocational Rehabilitation program (Chapter 31). In order to do so, I have to do research about what type of work I want to do after I graduate. I need to do a brief phone interview with someone in the areas I'm interested in, Contract Specialist (Purchasing Agent) and also in Risk Management. I just need to ask about a dozen questions, all very generic about your job. I would appreciate any help. Thank you!
Answers
Matthew, hi.
Thanks for your service!!
I do risk assessments/management for schools.
Not certain of cross-over, but I'd be happy to talk with you if you'd like!
Best,
Martin
Matthew
I Work I n the contracting and general service division at the US Fish an Wildlife Service, and although I am not a contracting officer or contracting specialist I can probably put you in touch with one of our contracting officers. If you are looking into becoming a federal contracting officer, check out the position description for th 1102 series here is the link https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/classifying-general-schedule-positions/#url=1100.
Let me know if you want me to arrange for you to talk directly to a contracting officer.
/r
Jim
Hello Matthew:
I would be happy to help if I can.
I am retired but still very active and thus difficult to reach by telephone: e mail is best.
My background includes many years of experience as a Manager and later corporate Executive responsible for Purchasing; Supply Chain operations and Corporate contracts.
If you like, e mail me your questions and I will try to respond.
Incidentally AARP in San Antonio, Texas is a very good company, has a very good purchasing department, and tries to hire veterans.
My initial suggestion: Start at the bottom - entry level position - work hard, become somewhat specialized in particular products or services,
Good luck.
Mr. Williams,
I really appreciate you taking the time to send that message and a link to the OPM classifications. A lot of useful information right there. I would love to talk with someone in the contracting field. Again it would be a brief phone interview, and some very common questions I would ask about the type of work they do. But I would be very grateful for any help. Let me know and I can send you my contact information and private e-mail address.
Thank you!
Matthew
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