IT Contract Specialist V

The IT Contract Specialist V reports to the Director of IT Contract Management and Oversight. Performs highly advanced (senior level) contract management and oversight functions and technical assistance for IT contracts. Monitors contractor performance and ensures the contractor is held accountable for timely performance. Maintains the contract record in SCOR, the system of record. Assesses and mitigates contract risk independently. Oversees IT contracts through the contract lifecycle, ensuring all contract activities are completed timely. Works under limited supervision, with considerable latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgement., * Contract Lifecycle - Responsible for managing the contract lifecycle. Oversees the completion of services and deliverables prior to the expiration date of the contract. Oversees the invoice verification processes, which ensures the accuracy of invoices and authorizes payments consistent with the contract terms. Manages, approves, and documents changes to contracts through the amendment process authorized by the terms of the contract. Oversees the completion contract closeout processes within 90 days of contract expiration, completion, or cancellation to include, as applicable, submission of a vendor performance report. (30%)

• Contract Record Management & Compliance - Maintains accurate and up-to-date contract records in SCOR (contract system of record) and CAPPS Financials (financial system of record). Completes thorough reviews of contract documentation within 10 days of the contract’s effective date. Uploads and maintains all required documents in the appropriate SCOR sub-modules. Tracks and records deliverable status and lifecycle events such as inception, amendments, and closure. Ensures compliance with agency documentation standards, record retention policies, and applicable laws and regulations. Responds promptly and constructively to findings from audits and contract quality reviews and ensure documentation supports contract decisions and actions. Contributes to the continuous improvement of the department’s process knowledgebases. Maintains contract metadata reference resources to support consistency and accuracy across contract records. (30%)
• Contractor Performance - Responsible for ensuring the contractor is held accountable, including possessing advanced knowledge of the contract terms, purpose, scope, requirements, expenditures, deliverables, and milestones. Establishes specific, time-bound, performance measures and requirements to ensure contractor accountability. Oversees the contractor’s performance and documents the results into SCOR. Escalates disputes or deficiencies with the contractor’s performance, in a timely manner; and pursues remedies, as appropriate, when a contractor’s performance is deficient. (20%)
• Risk Management - Responsible for assessing and mitigating contract risk independently. Promotes the use of best practices throughout the contract lifecycle. Oversees and completes the initial risk assessment within 60 days of contract begin date and establishes a contract monitoring plan. Oversees and completes risk assessments throughout the life of the contract. Consults System Contracting to address legal concerns or issues. (10%)
• Communication - Responsible for all communications on assigned contracts. Serves as the point of contact for agency communication with the contractor regarding all matters pertaining to high-dollar contracts. Manages post-award contractor conferences to ensure all parties are aware of the performance requirements and administrative procedures agreed in the contract. (10%)

• Knowledge of state contract management requirements and best practices.
• Knowledge of state procurement requirements and best practices.
• Knowledge of information technology requirements and best practices.
• Knowledge of business administration and accounting principles and practices.

Skill in:

• Skill in handling multiple projects, manage competing priorities, and meeting tight deadlines.
• Skill in conflict resolution and contract negotiations.
• Skill in communicating effectively both verbally and in writing.

Ability to:

• Ability to gather, assemble, and correlate data.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment in making critical decisions to analyze complex information and develop plans.
• Ability to interpret complex data.
• Ability to interpret and apply policies, procedures, and regulations.
• Ability to evaluate material data for reasonableness, necessity, and conformity with contract requirements.

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:

Requires current specialized certification as a Certified Texas Contract Manager (CTCM) and Certified Texas Contract Developer (CTCD) or the ability to obtain within 12 months of employment.

Initial Screening Criteria:

• A minimum three years of combined experience working directly in contract management or contract-related roles is required.
• A minimum three years of direct experience working with IT contracts as a contract manager is preferred.
• Experience managing IT contracts for a state agency or other governmental entity is preferred.

Additional Information:

Any employment offer is contingent upon available budgeted funds. The offered salary will be determined in accordance with budgetary limits and the requirements of HHSC Human Resources Manual.

Selected candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.

Selected candidates must be willing to work from an HHS office located in Austin, designated by the hiring manager.

Pulled from the full job description

• Health insurance
• Pension plan
• Opportunities for advancement

Full job description

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.