[southern star]

I am currently active duty military and work as a contracting officer for a DoD entity. I got a MS in Accounting while active and am trying to pass the CPA exam. I do hold a level II federal certification in contracting, but I was wondering the benefits of trying to combine the fields upon my end of service. I know I could do well in the contracting field, but I am worried about not being able to get federal employment because of a hiring freeze or some other reason.

Does anyone have any experience doing accounting for this field? And, if so, do you think knowing the contracting side of the business will help with the hiring process?

[Missy]

omg yes, yes, a thousand times over yes.

This is a NICHE in private accounting that very few people understand. Even for manufacturers that are subcontractors to DoD contractors (you make widgets for Raytheon, Lockheed, etc.) if you have contracts over the threshhold (was $750k when I was in that field but you know better than I do I am sure) being able to prepare a CAPA data request, deal with DCAA or DCMA auditors, and know exactly how to classify direct and indirect costs on the income statement so they can be easily recognized for the purpose of quoting is a big deal.

Even knowing how to look up the FAR clauses for billing and milestones is a huge plus for manufacturers that have DoD contracts.

I was an accounting manager for a mfr for years, and took a few classes that were intended for GSA employees but open to the public and still I often found myself going to a consultant when we were quoting govt contractors. Think of all the companies you deal with as a CO, those are the people looking for someone with your credentials.

Licensed Massachusetts Non Reporting CPA since 2012
Finance/Admin/HR Manager

[thedude]

I work in the state but not the federal government. I would say it depends on your motivation and goals. Personally, if I was in your shoes, I would try being an independent contract. I don't think hiring freezes apply to the feds sub-contracting work. If you do decide to find an employer, either usajobs.gov or find a contracting firm that deals with the fed. Having a federal financial certification and a CPA should really open a lot of doors for you.

Aud: 42 (ouch)

All others TBD

[Author]

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