Contract Specialist V

• 100% Teleworking Available

The WIC Procurement Liaison performs highly complex financial and procurement work and provides consultative and liaison services for the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program within Family Health Services (FHS) section. Duties include but are not limited to: reviewing, analyzing and managing purchase requests, consulting with co-workers, stakeholders, and contractors/vendors to resolve problems, identify needs, and provide information.

Works under limited supervision with extensive latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Essential Job Functions:

EJF 1 - Reviews and audits completed WIC procurement documents for accuracy and conformance to applicable rules and regulations; obtains appropriate approvals (legal, budget and others as

needed); facilitate the determination of the most effective and cost efficient procurement method for obtaining commodities and services; Monitor contract expirations and ensure contracts are renewed or re-bid as necessary.

EJF 2 - Participates and oversees purchasing activities by facilitating planning meetings, setting timelines and developing procurement documents and evaluation instruments. Supports training of and communication to program staff related to purchase requirements.

Accepts, tracks and ensures response to written questions submitted by potential bidders. Works with program staff and various HHS Divisions on contract/PO documents. Adheres to department, state and federal contracting policy.

EJF 3 - Supports the oversight of contractor performance, including ensuring purchase orders are supported by appropriate terms and conditions. Ensures appropriate tracking of purchase orders.

Ensures POs include adequate fundings that matches the duration of the purchase orders and the estimated costs. Communicates any issues with purchase orders and recommends actions on a routine basis to staff and management. Prepares written and oral communication with the vendor, as needed. Provides guidance to internal and external customers regarding contract administration, policies, and procedures.

EJF 4 - Coordinates resolution of purchase order related issues and serves as point of contact regarding issues with the vendor during the purchase order execution process. Initiates any and all changes to the purchase orders. Maintains appropriate records to ensure the availability of historical information about purchases.

EJF 5 - Participates in the development of Program contract administration policies and procedures. Oversees Program Contract Management Quality Assurance activities.

Serves as subject matter expert related to contract management on assigned workgroups. Analyzes Program contract management outputs and activities; identifies gaps and recommends system improvements. May manage special projects as required or requested. May prepare special correspondence or reports, analyze data and compile statistical reports or surveys using Word and Excel or other word processing and spreadsheet applications.

Knowledge Skills Abilities:

Knowledge of budgeting/accounting principles/controls and business procedures.

Knowledge of state/federal laws, rules, policies and procedures

Ability to learn USDA/HHSC procurement policies and procedures.

Knowledge of WIC regulations, systems and functions.

Skilled in use of personal computers, network environment, Internet, and software applications including but not limited to spreadsheets and databases.

Skilled and resourceful in interpreting and applying policies and procedures.

Ability to learn HHSC budgeting and accounting processes/systems.

Ability to learn USDA/HHSC procurement policies and procedures.

Ability to devise solutions to problems.

Ability to effectively communicate, both verbally and in writing, on a complex level.

Ability to develop/interpret/apply/summarize/explain regulations, policies and procedures.

Ability to effectively utilize appropriate WIC program/financial/department resources to perform work responsibilities.

Ability to pay attention to details and accuracy of work.

Ability to collect, analyze and reconcile financial data and prepare concise reports.

Ability to plan and effectively schedule multiple projects, time and resources.

Ability to effectively work with other staff and maintain positive work relations. Registration or Licensure Requirements:

Certified Texas Contract Manager (CTCM) certification must be obtained within 6 months of employment Initial Selection Criteria:

Two years of experience in contracting, requisition development/entry or purchasing.

Experience in the procurement of goods and services.

Preference for experience with HHSC purchasing processes.

Additional Information:

MOS Code:

51C, LS, SK, 3044, 6C0X1

HHS agencies use E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work.

I-9 Form - Click here to download the I-9 form.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS 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.

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