IT Contract Specialist V

Texas Health & Human Services Commission•Austin, TX

8d•$5,425 - $6,320•Onsite

About The Position

The IT Contract Specialist V performs highly advanced contract management and oversight functions and provides technical assistance for IT procurements and contracts supporting Medicaid applications. The role monitors contractor performance and accountability, maintains contract records in SCOR, independently assesses and mitigates contract risk, and oversees IT contracts throughout their lifecycle to ensure activities are completed on time. The position works under limited supervision, with considerable latitude to use initiative and independent judgment. It reports to the Director of IT Contract Management and Oversight. This is a full-time, onsite position based at an HHS office in Austin, Texas. The role requires current Certified Texas Contract Manager (CTCM) and Certified Texas Contract Developer (CTCD) certifications, or the ability to obtain them within 12 months of employment.

Requirements

At least three years of combined experience working directly in contract management or contract-related roles.
Current Certified Texas Contract Manager (CTCM) and Certified Texas Contract Developer (CTCD) certifications, or ability to obtain both within 12 months of employment.
Knowledge of state contract management and procurement requirements and best practices.
Knowledge of information technology requirements and best practices.
Knowledge of business administration and accounting principles and practices.
Skill in managing multiple projects, competing priorities, and tight deadlines.
Skill in conflict resolution and contract negotiations.
Effective verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to gather, assemble, and correlate data; exercise sound judgment; analyze complex information and develop plans; interpret complex data and applicable policies, procedures, and regulations; and evaluate data for reasonableness, necessity, and conformity with contract requirements.
Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.
Must be willing to work from an HHS office in Austin, Texas.

Nice To Haves

At least three years of direct experience working with IT contracts as a contract manager.
Experience managing IT contracts for a state agency or other governmental entity.

Responsibilities

Manage the contract lifecycle, including ensuring services and deliverables are completed before contract expiration.
Oversee invoice verification for accuracy and authorize payments consistent with contract terms.
Manage, approve, and document contract changes through the amendment process authorized by contract terms.
Oversee contract closeout within 90 days of expiration, completion, or cancellation, including vendor performance reporting when applicable.
Maintain accurate, current contract records in SCOR and CAPPS Financials; review documentation within 10 days of the contract effective date and maintain required documents in SCOR.
Track and record deliverable status and contract lifecycle events, and ensure compliance with agency documentation standards, retention policies, laws, and regulations.
Respond to audit and contract quality review findings; contribute to improving department process knowledgebases and maintain contract metadata reference resources.
Ensure contractor accountability by establishing time-bound performance measures, monitoring performance, documenting results in SCOR, escalating disputes or deficiencies, and pursuing appropriate remedies.
Assess and mitigate contract risks, complete initial risk assessments within 60 days of the contract begin date, establish monitoring plans, and conduct ongoing risk assessments.
Consult System Contracting on legal concerns or issues and promote contract lifecycle best practices.
Manage communications for assigned contracts, serve as the agency contact with contractors on high-dollar contracts, and lead post-award contractor conferences.