Contract Specialist IV

Texas Health & Human Services Commission • Austin, TX

4d • $4,801 - $7,762 • Hybrid

About The Position

Under the supervision of the Branch Manager, the Contract Specialist IV supports DSHS contract management through funding reviews, quality management, extensive contract monitoring, and other activities. With minimal supervision and considerable latitude to use initiative and independent judgment, this role performs senior-level technical and consultative work overseeing daily contract operations and management from development through closeout within the Contract Management Section. The position analyzes contractor performance using expenditure data, performance reports, and other relevant information; implements goals and objectives; develops guidelines, policies, procedures, schedules, priorities, and standards; and monitors compliance with applicable federal and state laws, rules, regulations, guidelines, policies, and procedures. It coordinates changes as requirements evolve and provides contract-administration guidance to program staff, management, and other Department staff. The role monitors contractor performance and expenditures, provides technical assistance, supports contract closeout, and serves internal and external customers by responding to inquiries, addressing problems, and seeking improvements. It interacts with program managers, staff, contractors, stakeholders, organizations, and other state agencies to support performance in accordance with contract terms.

This position is currently arranged as hybrid telework. DSHS plans to fill three positions from this posting. The role is based in Austin, Texas, and includes travel of up to 10%. Disaster response, recovery, or Continuity of Operations participation may require an alternate shift pattern or location.

Requirements

• Experience working effectively with internal and external stakeholders.
• Experience using Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Experience in contract-management activities such as contract solicitation, development, monitoring, and/or finance.
• Knowledge of DSHS programs, applicable standards, policies, functions, and the agency's mission and role in meeting program health objectives and priority health outcomes.
• Thorough knowledge of contracting regulations, business administration and accounting principles and practices, and contract-management and administration policies and procedures.
• Knowledge of audit principles, process improvement, and quality management.
• Knowledge of Texas budgeting and other financial policies and procedures.
• Knowledge of organizational planning, organizational development, and implementation methods for administering a complex delivery system.
• Working knowledge of Texas legislative processes and public accountability systems.
• Knowledge of applicable state and federal legislation, laws, regulations, agency rules, policies, and requirements related to health services and contracts.
• Skill in contract management, project management, prioritization, problem solving, conflict resolution, communication, preparing written analyses and reports, and analyzing administrative and financial information.
• Ability to write and edit contract requirements and specifications; interpret policies and develop operating procedures; evaluate and monitor contractor performance; and make recommendations.
• Ability to deal effectively with state and local officials and the public, lead or work as part of a team, and coordinate oversight across cross-functional divisions.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks, assignments, and projects; interpret and apply federal and state statutes, regulations, agency rules, policies, and procedures; evaluate financial data for reasonableness, necessity, and conformity to contract requirements; and exercise independent technical judgment.

Nice To Haves

• Certified Texas Contract Manager (CTCM) certification is preferred; if not already held, it must be obtained within the first year of employment.

Responsibilities

• Monitor contract performance by examining billings, fiscal data, eligibility determinations, and supporting billing documentation for compliance with contract terms and policies.
• Track contractor expenditures, performance data, and deliverables; analyze performance reports and related documentation; project expenditures; and communicate results and recommendations to program and Department staff.
• Communicate with contractors and assist in delivering financial and programmatic technical assistance and training.
• Provide internal and external customers with guidance on contract administration policies and procedures; identify training needs and determine how training should be conducted.
• Coordinate contract-monitoring risk assessments and planning, and participate in coordinated reviews addressing financial and programmatic compliance.
• Work with relevant parties to resolve audit findings by defining criteria, requirements, and processes and recommending appropriate dispositions.
• Coordinate resolution of contractor issues, communicate with contractors and Division staff, and ensure implementation and resolution of contract sanctions.
• Ensure contract closeout activities are completed according to DSHS policy.
• Participate in developing contract-administration policies and procedures and implement goals and objectives supporting agency strategic plans, policies, and procedures.
• Serve as a contract-management subject matter expert on assigned workgroups in coordination with Grants, budget, fiscal units, legal, Contract Oversight and Support, and division programs.
• Analyze departmental contracting systems, outputs, and activities; identify gaps and recommend system improvements.
• Manage special projects as required or requested and prepare correspondence, reports, data analyses, and statistical reports or surveys using Word, Excel, or other word-processing and spreadsheet applications as needed.
• Participate in or support agency disaster response, recovery, or Continuity of Operations activities; this may require an alternate shift pattern or location.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Insurance coverage and other benefits available through the State of Texas Group Benefits Plan administered by the Employee Retirement System of Texas (ERS).

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: No Education Listed