The Opportunity:
We are seeking an experienced Cost Engineer Subject Matter Expert (SME) to lead proposal development, pricing strategies, and quarterly Cost and Software Data Reporting (CSDR) reporting for DOD/DOW task order contracts. The ideal candidate will possess deep expertise in federal acquisition processes, cost estimating methodologies, and financial reporting requirements under FAR/DFARS regulations.
Responsibilities
Proposal Development & Management
- Lead the development and coordination of technical and cost proposals for task order solicitations under IDIQ vehicles
- Develop compliant proposal strategies aligned with RFP requirements and evaluation criteria
- Coordinate cross-functional proposal teams including technical, pricing, contracts, and capture personnel
- Conduct proposal reviews (pink, red, gold team) ensuring compliance, quality, and competitiveness as needed
- Manage proposal schedules, action items, and deliverables to meet submission deadlines
Pricing & Cost Estimation
- Develop comprehensive cost/price volumes including detailed cost narratives and supporting documentation with corporate pricing SME
- Prepare and validate labor hour estimates, material costs, ODCs, subcontractor quotes, and fee structures
- Conduct basis of estimate (BOE) development and validation sessions with technical teams
- Perform cost/price reasonableness analyses and competitive assessments
- Support cost realism analysis and competitive pricing strategies
- Prepare and defend pricing during negotiations with government customers
CSDR Financial Reporting & Compliance
- Prepare and submit required financial portion of CSDR deliverables (NO IPMR CDRLS)
- Ensure compliance with DID requirements for CSDR reporting
- Conduct variance analysis and prepare explanatory narratives for cost and schedule deviations
- Coordinate with finance, accounting, and project management teams to ensure data accuracy
- Maintain CSDR reporting schedules and ensure timely submission to government customers
Work Breakdown Structure
- Develop and maintain integrated Work Breakdown Structures (WBS) that align with both traditional EVMS requirements and Agile development methodologies
- Create hybrid WBS frameworks that accommodate iterative/sprint-based work while maintaining contract reporting requirements
- Establish WBS elements that support both waterfall and Agile task order components, ensuring proper cost collection and allocation
- Manage WBS changes throughout the project lifecycle, including re-baselining for scope changes and contract modifications
- Ensure WBS dictionary maintenance with clear definitions for work packages, planning packages, and Agile epics/features/user stories
- Map Agile ceremonies and artifacts (sprints, releases, product backlog items) to WBS control accounts for cost tracking
- Coordinate with technical teams to ensure WBS structure supports both detailed cost reporting and Agile team autonomy
- Support business team with WBS-to-CLIN/SLIN traceability for contract financial management and billing
Financial Analysis & Reporting
- Support project management business team and corporate finance and business team with analysis
- Provide mentorship and training to junior colleagues
- Support contract modifications and pricing for scope changes
- Assist with indirect rate development and forward pricing rate proposals (FPRPs)
Qualifications:
Education:
Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Finance, Accounting, Engineering, or related field
Experience:
- Minimum 20 years of experience in government contracting with focus on proposal development and pricing
- Minimum 20 years of direct experience with CSDR reporting requirements and EVMS
- Proven track record managing proposals for federal task orders (minimum $100M value)
- Experience with multiple contract types: FFP, CPFF, T&M, hybrid arrangements
- Demonstrated knowledge of FAR, DFARS, and agency-specific acquisition regulations
Technical Skills:
- Expert proficiency in proposal development tools and methodologies
- Advanced Excel skills including complex financial modeling
- Experience with ERP/accounting systems (Deltek Costpoint, Unanet, SAP, or similar)
- Familiarity with proposal management software (APEX, SharePoint, etc.)
- Knowledge of EVMS principles and practices (ANSI-748 compliance)
Security Clearance
- Active Secret clearance required (or ability to obtain)
Desired:
Certifications:
- Project Management Professional (PMP)
Working Conditions
- Office-based position with potential for hybrid/remote work arrangements
- May require extended hours during proposal efforts
- Occasional travel to customer sites or teaming partner locations (up to 10%)
- Must be able to obtain and maintain required security clearance (if applicable)
What You Can Expect:
A culture of integrity.
At CACI, we place character and innovation at the center of everything we do. As a valued team member, you’ll be part of a high-performing group dedicated to our customer’s missions and driven by a higher purpose – to ensure the safety of our nation.
An environment of trust.
CACI values the unique contributions that every employee brings to our company and our customers - every day. You’ll have the autonomy to take the time you need through a unique flexible time off benefit and have access to robust learning resources to make your ambitions a reality.
A focus on continuous growth.
Together, we will advance our nation's most critical missions, build on our lengthy track record of business success, and find opportunities to break new ground — in your career and in our legacy.
Pay Range:
There are a host of factors that can influence final salary including, but not limited to, geographic location, Federal Government contract labor categories and contract wage rates, relevant prior work experience, specific skills and competencies, education, and certifications. Our employees value the flexibility at CACI that allows them to balance quality work and their personal lives. We offer competitive compensation, benefits and learning and development opportunities. Our broad and competitive mix of benefits options is designed to support and protect employees and their families. At CACI, you will receive comprehensive benefits such as; healthcare, wellness, financial, retirement, family support, continuing education, and time off benefits.
Since this position can be worked in more than one location, the range shown is the national average for the position.
The proposed salary range for this position is:
$82,100-$172,400CACI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected characteristic.
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