Contract Specialist IV

TX-HHSC-DSHS-DFPS • Austin, TX

9d • Hybrid

About The Position

Under direction of the Third Party Recovery Manager, this Contract Specialist IV (CS) position will provide key contract management services to Office of Inspector General (OIG) TPR and work predominantly on the development and maintenance of the Medicaid Estate Recovery Program (MERP) contract and associated processes. The CS will interact with all areas of the OIG, HHS divisions and management, contractors, other state agencies, and a variety of other stakeholders and will serve as subject matter expert in assigned workgroups and contract activities. In addition, responsibilities include: processing invoices; conducting contract risk assessment and monitoring activities; working closely with Legal staff to develop solicitations, contracts, and amendments; drafting action memos; maintaining accurate and updated contract records and completing documentation in the appropriate systems of record; and assists the OIG in adhering to procurement and contracting policies, rules, and statutes. Works under minimal supervision, with considerable latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Participates in other Contract Management activities as assigned.

Requirements

• Knowledge of local, state and federal laws and regulations relating to HHS procurement and contracting.
• Knowledge of HHSC-PCS procurement requirements, forms, and processes.
• Knowledge of HHS contract management policies, procedures, and tools.
• Knowledge of business administration and accounting principles.
• Knowledge of contract data systems, analysis, and reporting.
• Knowledge of systemic process improvement techniques and quality assurance processes.
• Skill in managing multiple and competing priorities.
• Skill in developing performance requirements and measurement tools.
• Skill in working collaboratively and cooperatively with diverse groups.
• Skill in problem-solving, independent decision-making, and conflict resolution.
• Skill in organizing and presenting information clearly, concisely, and effectively (both orally and in writing).
• Skill in the development and delivery of effective resource materials and training.
• Skill in performing complex research functions.
• Skill at providing excellent customer service.
• Skill in using MS Office Suite (particularly Word, Excel, and Outlook), , CAPPS, SCOR, and other related data systems.
• Ability to interpret policies, procedures, and regulations.
• Ability to evaluate fiscal data for reasonableness, necessity, and conformity with contract requirements.
• Ability to write and edit contract requirements and specifications.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced business environment.
• Ability to make decisions and solve problems effectively.
• Ability to negotiate effectively among multiple parties.
• Ability to develop and evaluate administrative policies and procedures.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with all levels of personnel in governmental entities.
• Ability to plan, assign, and/or supervise the work of others.
• Certified Texas Contract Manager Certification (CTCM) or must obtain within 12 months upon hire.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in contract development, management, or evaluation work.
• Experience with HHS programs and contract oversight requirements is strongly preferred.
• Experience working with TIERS and SAS is preferred.
• CTCM Certification is preferred.
• Experience working with stakeholders and diverse groups preferred.

Responsibilities

• Performs advanced (senior-level) contract management work and provides technical assistance related to contract management and program performance. Facilitates authorization of funding expenditures. Coordinates contract development and amendments for the MERP contract within established protocols.
• Consults and communicates, individually or collectively, with contractors, community stakeholders, and state and local authorities to identify needs, resolve problems, monitor, and discuss effectiveness of programs and services.
• Develops procedures to ensure accountability and documentation related to performance measures and contract management. Assists with developing policy and recommending policy changes.
• Maintains accurate contract records and generates and prepares reports for overall contract management, internal and external information requests, and prepares and distributes responses/feedback concerning performance measures and contract deliverables.
• Collaborates with applicable stakeholders to identify and resolve contract-related issues. Communicates plans and changes to plans to contractors individually and collectively. Collects information and prepares legislative and/or management responses as directed by leadership.
• Facilitates contract termination and closeout, including the review and analysis of all program reports and actions, equipment reconciliation (if applicable), and record disposition according to contract terms.
• Performs other duties, as assigned. Keeps manager informed as required or as necessary.

Benefits

• comprehensive benefits package includes 100% paid employee health insurance for full-time eligible employees, a defined benefit pension plan, generous time off benefits, numerous opportunities for career advancement and more

What This Job Offers

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