Contract Specialist IV

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.

Functional Title: Contract Specialist IV
Job Title: Contract Specialist IV
Agency: Health & Human Services Comm
Department: FVP Grant Admin
Posting Number: 9153
Closing Date: 09/30/2025
Posting Audience: Internal and External
Occupational Category: Community and Social Services
Salary Group: TEXAS-B-22
Salary Range: $4,801.16 - $7,391.91
Pay Frequency: Monthly
Shift: Day
Additional Shift: Days (First)
Telework: Eligible for Telework
Travel: Up to 25%
Regular/Temporary: Regular
Full Time/Part Time: Full time
FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt
Facility Location:
Job Location City: AUSTIN
Job Location Address: 4601 W GUADALUPE ST
Other Locations: Austin
MOS Codes: 51C, 35, FIN10, 3044, 3006, 6C0X1, 64PX

You will oversee the execution and administration of family violence program contracts and grant agreements by defining requirements and negotiating, awarding, developing, and monitoring contracts. You will also oversee the processing of contract documents to ensure that management understands and authorizes contract terms. Coordinate with agency management on issues related to processing contract documents. Serve as the principal contract liaison between agency management, contractors, and other customers. Assist with negotiation strategies and awards new contracts. May assist in the preparation of the scope of work, specifications, and conditions for new contracts. Works under limited supervision, with considerable latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

Staff in this position may be allowed to telework part-time on an approved schedule; however, reporting to headquarters or other assigned work location as needed and as stipulated by the FVP Manager is a requirement of this position.

Essential Job Functions:

(40%) 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.

(25%) 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.

(20%) Completes on-site and/or desk visits with assigned contractors as needed to ensure appropriate contractor performance with contractors and staff.

(5%) May provide assistance to pre-solicitation program descriptions and performance requirements, collaborate 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.

(5%) Prepares management reports, correspondence, and other materials on program contracts. Develops policies and procedures related to procurement and contracting activities with guidance to staff in the development and integration of new methods and procedures. Assists with audit activities.

(5%) Other duties as assigned include, but are not limited to, actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet FVP goals and objectives.

Knowledge Skills Abilities:

Knowledge of local, state, and federal laws and regulations relating to HHS procurement and contracting.

Knowledge of contract management theory and practice, including personnel and financial management, federal grant management, process improvement, and quality management.

Knowledge of funding and allocation methodologies.

Knowledge of contract data systems, analysis, and reporting.

Working knowledge of community-based health programs, Texas legislative processes, and public accountability systems.

Skill in communication, including the effective organization and presentation of information, both orally and in writing.

Strong communication and organization skills with attention to detail.

Experience with Microsoft Windows and Office products: Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Skill in preparing written analyses, administrative reports, and special projects as assigned.

Skill in analyzing and solving problems and making recommendations affecting overall contracting activities, and comprehensively and accurately evaluating different types of administrative reports.

Ability to gather, assemble, correlate, and analyze facts.

Ability to develop and evaluate policies and procedures.

Ability to deal effectively with state and local officials and the public.

Ability to work independently while understanding the need for communicating and coordinating work efforts with others.

Ability to perform multiple tasks, assignments, and projects.

Ability to interpret and apply federal and state statutes, regulations, agency rules, policies, and procedures related to procurements and contracting activities.

Registration or Licensure Requirements:

Certified Texas Contract Manager (CTCM) preferred. If not currently a CTCM, the selected candidate must obtain CTCM certification within 6 months of hire date.

Initial Selection Criteria:

Review our Tips for Success when applying for jobs at DFPS, DSHS and HHSC.

Active Duty, Military, Reservists, Guardsmen, and Veterans:

Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information please see the Texas State Auditor’s Job Descriptions, Military Crosswalk and Military Crosswalk Guide at Texas State Auditor's Office - Job Descriptions.

ADA Accommodations:

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHSC and DSHS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.

Pre-Employment Checks and Work Eligibility:

Depending on the program area and position requirements, applicants selected for hire may be required to pass background and other due diligence checks.

HHSC uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Download the I-9 Form

Telework Disclaimer:

This position may be eligible for telework. Please note, all HHS positions are subject to state and agency telework policies in addition to the discretion of the direct supervisor and business needs.