Contract Specialist V

TX-HHSC-DSHS-DFPS•Austin, TX

6d•$5,425 - $8,800•Hybrid

About The Position

Join the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and be part of a team committed to creating a positive impact in the lives of fellow Texans. At HHSC, your contributions matter, and we support you at each stage of your life and work journey. Our 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. Explore more details on the Benefits of Working at HHS webpage. Family Health Services is seeking candidates who are committed to improving outcomes for children and families and would thrive in an environment of innovation and continuous improvement in how the state approaches mental health prevention. This position will have the opportunity to work in the statewide grant program within Family Health Services. The Supporting Mental Health and Resilience in Texans (SMART) Innovation grant program supports community-based, innovative initiatives that promote early identification and early access to interventions and treatment for Texas children and their families The Contract Administration Specialist V will work for SMART Innovation. Performs highly advanced contract administration work involving the oversight of large-scope or high-dollar contracts by, and monitoring contracts. Works under minimal supervision, with extensive latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Attends work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Knowledge of state procurement and contract management requirements, regulations, and best practices; negotiating contracts; developing contracts; business administration and accounting principles and practices; and policies and procedures of contract management.
Ability to evaluate contracts and recommend future status; to interpret policies, procedures, and regulations; to evaluate fiscal data for reasonableness, necessity, and conformity with contract requirements; to write and edit contract requirements and specifications; to negotiate features of a contract; and to communicate effectively.
Knowledge of local, state, and federal laws relating to contract management/administration
Knowledge of business, project management, and contract management systems and processes
Knowledge of State government organization, administration, management, and operating practices
Skill in developing contracts, in problem resolution, and in the use of a computer and applicable software (CAPPS Financial and SCOR).
Skill in problem solving and conflict resolution
Skill in analyzing/interpreting large and complex data sets, and writing complex documents/reports, policies, and procedures
Skill in organizing and presenting information effectively, both orally and in writing, to individuals at all levels both internally and externally
Skill in assessing and evaluating services, and recommending improvements
Ability to think objectively and adapt regular processes to fit the needs of innovation
Ability to manage project activities
Ability to build, establish, and maintain effective working relationships with diverse groups and entities
Ability to analyze and interpret complex information and data and develop plans.
Ability to effectively demonstrate negotiation and facilitation skills
Ability to gather, assemble, correlate, and analyze facts/data/systems/financial information
A minimum of three years of direct experience in contract monitoring, fiscal monitoring, and contract management is required.

Nice To Haves

Certified Texas Contract Manager (CTCM) certificate preferred.
Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university preferred.
Experience and education may be substituted for one another on a year-for-year basis.
Experience with HHS programs and contract oversight requirements is strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

Performs written and oral communication with contractors as the single point of contact for all contractual accountability activities between the State and contractors.
Facilitates and ensures delivery of financial and programmatic technical assistance and training.
Coordinates resolution of contractor issues, initiates all contract amendments (to include terminations) and sanctions, obtains approval of amendments/sanctions with appropriate program managers, communicates impact of changes to appropriate contractor and program staff, and ensures implementation and resolution of contract sanctions.
Ensures all contract closeout activities are performed according to HHSC policy.
Completes analysis of contractor performance by synthesizing contractor expenditure data, performance reports, quality management reports, technical assistance and training documentation, and other pertinent data as it relates to contractor performance.
Communicates the results and recommends actions on a routine basis to program staff as appropriate.
Completes on-site and/or desk visits with assigned contractors as needed to ensure appropriate contractor performance with contractors and staff.
Assists with pre-solicitation program descriptions and performance requirements, Collaborates with program subject matter experts on the inclusion of program-specific information for the procurement documents, and the development of review criteria and review tools.
Works closely with program staff, Procurement and Contracting Services (PCS), budget, legal and management to ensure that contracts resulting from procurements contain appropriate program and legal requirements and are completed in a timely manner.
Prepares and updates contract management procedures and contract related tools, monitoring reports, correspondence and other materials on program contracts.
Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet SMART goals and objectives.