FY 25-80 Contract Specialist IV

FY 25-80 Contract Specialist IVPerforms advanced (senior-level) contract management work. Works under minimal supervision, with considerable latitude for the use of initiative for the Facilities Design and Construction (FDC) portfolio of construction contracts. This position uses independent judgement and fully performs highly complex contract development/management work and may, identify training needs and conduct training, develop solicitations, contracts, and amendments, evaluating the description of services to be rendered and procurement strategies, and supporting the evaluation, negotiation, and contract administration functions. Performs quality control reviews to ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. Performs contract administrative work involving developing and evaluating a broad range of contracts with a focus on capital and minor construction contracts. Responsible for the cross departmental coordination of contract processes and administration systems.Develops solicitations, contracts, and amendments by coordinating the solicitation initiation, in close coordination with the Project Manager to prepare the scope of work, specifications, and conditions for new contracts; coordinates with the Legal and Procurement divisions to prepare sample contracts; coordinates negotiation strategies; and manages the FDC workflows to award new contracts.Leads the operational contract monitoring for risk, performance, fiscal data, and compliance with terms and internal policies, including developing and tracking key metrics department wide.Develops and implements contracting quality control program to ensure contract actions adhere to state, agency, and department policies and procedures across all contracts administered by the FDC department.Oversees and coordinates the processing of contract documents to ensure that the project team understands the requirements and limitations of the contract strategy and related procedures and development strategy.Develops short- and long-term strategies and goals for the portfolio of contracts administered by the department.Investigates and coordinates the resolution of discrepancies, complaints, and disputes in support of the Project Manager by negotiating settlement agreements or by canceling or terminating contracts.Initiates and oversees process improvement and policy evolution to ensure a productive and compliant contracting environment for the growing construction project portfolio of the agency.Serves as the contract liaison between Facility Development and Construction leadership group, internal and external project teams, and other agency divisions, e.g. Legal and Procurement Services.Resolves audit exceptions by defining causes of errors and recommending appropriate dispositions, process adjustments, or other mitigation strategies.Provides portfolio contract management strategies to ensure consistency across diverse projects for contract budget, negotiations, risk management and overall contract monitoring at the departmental level.Ability to exercise sound judgment in making critical decisions, to analyze complex information and develop plans, to interpret complex data, to effectively demonstrate negotiation and facilitation skills, to communicate effectively, and to supervise the work of others.Ability to oversee and/or supervise the work of others.Plans, develops, and conducts presentations, and other special projects as assigned.Graduation from a four-year degree in business, construction administration, architecture, engineering, or a related field with a focus on contracts.Four years of experience developing, soliciting, and monitoring public construction contracts or similar contract actions.Must be eligible to obtain the CTCM & CTCD certifications within 6 months of hire.Must possess the ability to attest to and maintain the security or integrity of the state's critical infrastructure requirement to be considered for hire and to maintain employment.Valid State of Texas Class "C" driver's license.Extensive knowledge of state laws and statutes regarding contract management practices.Extensive knowledge of State of Texas purchasing policies and procedures.Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.Ability to collaborate with agency staff, agency attorneys, Executive Leadership, contractors and other state agencies to resolve contracting issues.Knowledge of public construction, contract administration and cost monitoring for large scope or high-dollar contracts.Proficient in evaluating products, equipment, and material; analyzing and organizing technical data.Proficient in the use of personal computers and applicable programs, applications, and systems.Skill in developing contracts.Skill in handling multiple tasks.Demonstrated ability to read, understand, and adhere to departmental policies and procedures, and the laws controlling state purchasing and contracting operations.Demonstrated ability to perform cost analysis, supplier qualification, and contract development and negotiations.Ability to provide outstanding customer service.This classification functions in a standard office environment. There are no unusual dangers involved, but the position will have exposure to dust, environmental allergens, pathogens, and other microorganisms consistent with business activities and human contact. The position holder must be able to work effectively with people under varying conditions, must be able to work extended periods at a computer, and must be able to work longer than eight hours in a work-day as necessary. Physical requirements also include the ability to move items up to 30 lbs. and perform tasks requiring fine motor skills and coordination.