Contract Specialist II

General Description Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) seeks highly qualified candidates to fill the Contract Specialist II position within the Community Services (CS), Community Care Services (CCS), and Community Care Services Contracts (CCSC) Section. The role supports HHSC’s mission “We Serve Texas” by performing complex contract management at the journey level, including enrollment, maintenance, and monitoring of community care services contracts. Responsibilities Identify the need for service providers and take appropriate action; participate in work groups to recommend changes to contract‑related documents; monitor legal and regulatory requirements; handle routine reporting and special projects; provide orientation and technical assistance to contractors, stakeholders, and internal staff. Prepare and maintain contract documents; assist with developing contract administration policies; initiate, develop, negotiate, process, and manage contracts, renewals, and amendments; upload required documents to the HHSC contracts repository system. Complete all required pre‑monitoring activities: verify contractor screening criteria, review contractor history and compliance, prepare monitoring tools, send inquiries for missing data, and schedule monitor reviews in accordance with protocol. Monitor contractor performance to ensure compliance with state and federal regulations: conduct contract compliance, investigate allegations, review billings and eligibility determinations, recommend actions or sanctions, and track them through completion. Provide guidance on contract administration, policies, and procedures; assist other team members; perform other duties as assigned. Qualifications Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Journey‑level knowledge of contracting regulations, negotiation, contract development, business administration, and accounting principles; knowledge of state, federal, and community care services regulations; strong project management, communication, and computer skills; ability to evaluate contracts, analyze fiscal data, and provide guidance to others. Initial Screening Criteria: Experience interpreting state and federal policies; preferred experience with HHSC Community Care Services programs, full‑time work in health and human services, and contract management and monitoring. Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications: Certified Texas Contract Manager (CTCM) certification required, to be completed between the sixth and twelfth month of employment; valid driver’s license required. Legal and Equal‑Opportunity Statements Applicants who are active‑duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified. HHSC complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act and will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. HHSC may conduct pre‑employment background checks and requires I‑9 documentation on the first day of employment. This position may be eligible for telework and will require extensive travel and occasional overnight travel in accordance with telework policies and business needs. #J-18808-Ljbffr