CPS Reg Contract Spec II

The Contract Specialist II position performs duties associated with developing, managing and monitoring a range of contracts for Child Protective Services. Work involves assisting in the development of contracts, noncompetitive procurements; negotiating and awarding contracts; and processing renewal amendments and change documents.

The position monitors contractors' performance to determine fiscal and programmatic compliance with Federal, State and agency policies and procedures and interacts routinely with representatives from various state and community agency organizations and Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) staff at all levels; and the general public. Essential Job Functions:

The duties of this position will include analyzing requirements and terms, recommending revisions to statements of work/specifications, conducting post award activities, initiating briefings with contractors to ensure full understanding of the terms and conditions, the handling of contract modifications, resolving contract issues related to noncompliance and performance issues, and coordinating and executing the contract termination and close-out process. Responsibilities also include assisting with designing service delivery systems, negotiating funding and contract terms; reviewing contract service needs and determine renewal level considering available funding, contractor performance, and DFPS policies.

Conduct contract renewal amendments, plan changes, and closures, preparing contract documents in accordance with agency policies and procedures. Assess contractor risk levels; conduct on-site and desk review monitoring of contractors to determine compliance with fiscal, programmatic and legal terms of contract. Prepare monitoring reports and correspondence, handle corrective actions, collections, and conduct follow-up monitoring activities.

Serve as the primary liaison between the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services and contractors, maintaining effective verbal and written communication in order to share information, communicate expectations, address and resolve issues and/or complaints, and obtain feedback regarding purchased client services. Identify needs and provide training, technical assistance and policy/procedure clarification to contractors and agency staff on client eligibility, billing, and other contract related issues. Resolve problems related to contract issued of service delivery, contract compliance, billing, financial performance and other contract terms.

Review and approve contractor invoices and oversee maintenance of contract budget information in contract data systems (i.e. IMPACT and SCOR), and the contract billing and payment process for assigned contracts. Monitor expenditures continuously and make spending projections for assigned contracts.

Perform other duties as assigned and required to maintain unit operations which would include records retention, oral presentations and facilitating meetings with Program staff and contractors. Attend work regularly, in accordance with agency leave policy. Knowledge Skills Abilities:

Knowledge of computer software such as Microsoft (Word, Excel, and Outlook) and basic accounting principles. Skill and experience in negotiations, decision making, evaluation and problem solving.

Applicant must be skilled in effective written and verbal communication, establishing and maintaining effective working relationships, and functioning as a team member. Must have the ability to prioritize and complete multiple tasks with strict deadlines. The ability to analyze and interpret State and agency contracting policies, rules and regulations.

Applicant must also have the ability to work in a stressful environment and the ability to work independently with minimal supervision. Registration or Licensure Requirements:

Must earn a designation as a Certified Texas Contract Manager (CTCM) within 18 months of hire date. Initial Selection Criteria:

Graduation from an accredited four-year college and a minimum of one year of full-time experience contract management or related field. OR a minimum of four years of experience working in contracting, procurements, auditing, social services or related field may be substituted.

Experience using computer software such as Microsoft (Word, Excel) and experience with basic accounting principles. Additional Information:

This position is eligible for 100% telework. MOS Code:

1980. Note. There are no direct military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position. All active duty, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply.

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

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 Access HR 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.

As a state agency, DFPS is required Texas Administrative Code (TAC 206 and 213) to ensure all Electronic Information Resources (EIR) follow accessibility standards. The staff must be familiar with the WCAG 2.1 AA and Section 508 to create accessible content including but not limited to; Microsoft Office documents, Adobe PDFs, webpages, software, training guides, video, and audio files.

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.