Bernard Salter, Jr.

Bernard Salter, Jr. serves as a Contract Specialist within the Contract Administration Services Division (70RCAS) of the Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Procurement Operations, where he plays a pivotal role in executing complex acquisitions of professional, scientific, and technical services critical to national security readiness. His responsibilities encompass the full lifecycle of contract management—from solicitation and evaluation to award and administration—focusing primarily on IT-enabled solutions that enhance cybersecurity, systems engineering, and operational infrastructure. He ensures compliance with federal acquisition regulations while aligning procurements with DHS’s mission to safeguard critical systems and advance technological innovation. Bernard collaborates with a diverse array of contractors specializing in computer systems design, systems engineering, and management consulting services. While no single vendor dominates his portfolio, he consistently engages with firms possessing demonstrated expertise in federal IT modernization, cloud infrastructure, and mission-critical systems integration. His working relationships are characterized by a focus on technical capability, past performance, and regulatory compliance, fostering partnerships with both large primes and agile small businesses capable of delivering high-integrity technical solutions. Bernard’s contracting patterns reflect a strong preference for full and open competition, with 100% of his acquisitions issued without set-aside restrictions. This approach underscores a strategic emphasis on maximizing competition and selecting the most technically qualified offerors, regardless of socioeconomic status. While he does not prioritize 8(a), HUBZone, or SDVOSB set-asides, his processes remain transparent and equitable, ensuring all eligible vendors have equal opportunity to compete based on merit and capability. His primary procurement focus lies within NAICS 541512 (Computer Systems Design Services), 541611 (Administrative Management Consulting), and 541519 (Other Computer-Related Services), reflecting deep expertise in IT architecture, systems integration, and operational support services. He regularly procures cybersecurity frameworks, systems engineering support, and technical advisory services essential to maintaining the integrity of DHS’s mission-critical platforms.