Contract Administration Manager I

TX-HHSC-DSHS-DFPS • Austin, TX

12d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) works to build on strengths of families and communities to keep children and vulnerable adults safe, so they thrive. We do this through investigations, services, and referrals. The Contract Administration Manager I works under the direction of the Community-Based Care Operations Director for DFPS. This position performs highly advanced (senior-level) contract administration work involving the oversight, execution, and administration of large-scope or high-dollar contracts by defining requirements and negotiating, awarding, developing, and monitoring contracts. Works under minimal supervision, with extensive latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. May serve in a lead or supervisory role.

Requirements

• Knowledge of negotiation strategies and techniques; contract administration and cost monitoring for large-scope or high-dollar contracts; systems and procedures used to evaluate a third-party vendor’s performance; and local, state, and federal laws and regulations relevant to the administration of federal or state funds.
• Skill in developing contracts, in problem resolution, and in the use of a computer and applicable software.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment in making critical decisions, to analyze complex information and develop plans, to interpret complex data, to effectively demonstrate negotiation and facilitation skills, to communicate effectively, and to supervise the work of others.
• Experience in contract administration and in the management, evaluation, or monitoring of contract providers.
• Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major coursework in business, public administration, law, or a related field is generally preferred.
• Experience and education may be substituted for one another.

Nice To Haves

• Current CTCM certification preferred or must be obtained within 18 months of hire.

Responsibilities

• Oversees or prepares the scope of work, specifications, and conditions for new contracts; prepares contracts; leads negotiation strategies; and awards new contracts.
• Oversees the operations and activities of monitoring contract performance, including developing and tracking key metrics.
• Oversees or conducts on-site visits to contractors to examine billings, fiscal data, and eligibility determinations for compliance with contract terms and agency policies.
• Oversees and coordinates the processing of contract documents to ensure that management understands and authorizes contract terms.
• Develops short- and long-term strategies and goals for the administration of assigned contracts.
• Investigates and resolves discrepancies, complaints, and disputes by negotiating settlement agreements or by canceling or terminating contracts.
• Initiates and oversees special studies or surveys to assess consumer and program outcomes for evaluation.
• Serves as the principal contract liaison between agency management, contractors, the Legislature, and other customers.
• Provides input on or prepares the contract budget; recommends budget allocations for proposed contract agreements; arranges, monitors, and reviews budget allocations with management; and provides budget forecast and proposes alternatives.
• Plans, develops, and conducts presentations.
• Review and analyze legislation related to procurement and contract management, including tracking legislative bills and assisting with bill analysis.
• Identify or forecast cost savings for initial contract, extensions, and amendments compared to previous contract
• Performs related work as assigned.

Benefits

• 100% paid health insurance for you, and 50% paid for eligible family members—saving you hundreds every month in out-of-pocket medical costs
• Retirement plans with lifetime monthly payments after five years of state service, plus options to save even more with 401(k) and 457 plans
• Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave so you can recharge and take care of life outside work (that’s time off you’re actually paid for)
• Optional dental, vision, and life insurance—at rates much lower than most private plans
• Flexible spending accounts for added tax savings on health and dependent care
• Employee discounts on things like gym memberships, electronics, and entertainment

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees