Mary H Steinmetz

Mary H. Steinmetz serves as a Contract Specialist responsible for managing the full lifecycle of federal acquisitions, from requirements validation and market research through contract award and administration. She plays a critical role in ensuring compliance with the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and supports the agency’s mission by delivering high-value scientific and technical services. Her portfolio primarily consists of research and development contracts under NAICS 541712, focusing on physical, engineering, and life sciences research—encompassing laboratory services, data analytics, prototype development, and technical consulting. Steinmetz ensures acquisitions are structured to meet rigorous scientific standards while maintaining fiscal accountability and regulatory integrity. While no specific contractor relationships are identified, Steinmetz engages with a broad spectrum of vendors, including academic research institutions, independent scientific consultants, and both large and small businesses capable of delivering complex R&D solutions. Her contracting approach emphasizes competitive solicitation, clear performance metrics, and technical evaluation criteria to ensure outcomes align with program objectives. She maintains a transparent and fair procurement process, fostering vendor trust through consistent communication and adherence to procurement best practices. Steinmetz demonstrates a strong preference for open competition, with 90% of her acquisitions conducted without set-aside restrictions. However, she consistently reserves 10% of her portfolio for Total Small Business Set-Asides under FAR 19.5, reflecting a deliberate commitment to expanding opportunities for small businesses in the scientific R&D sector. Her socioeconomic contracting patterns prioritize broad-based small business participation without reliance on specialized programs like 8(a), HUBZone, or SDVOSB, indicating a focus on capability over certification. Her primary industry focus is NAICS 541712, where she specializes in procuring advanced research services across engineering, physical sciences, and life sciences. This includes contract support for experimental design, computational modeling, environmental testing, and scientific data management. Steinmetz’s expertise lies in identifying qualified technical performers capable of addressing complex, mission-critical research challenges, making her a key enabler of innovation within the federal science and technology ecosystem.