Contract Specialist

El Paso County Department of Human Services is seeking a Contract Specialist who thrives in a fast-paced, high-volume environment and enjoys variety in their day-to-day work. No two days look the same in this role — you'll juggle multiple contract types across programs like Adoptions, Child Care Assistance, and Foster Care, constantly shifting priorities and problem-solving on the fly. Responsibilities include document drafting, vendor and partner communication, and contract oversight, including data and performance tracking. This isn't a role for someone looking for routine, predictable work. It's built for a self-starter who can prioritize effectively and pivot quickly between tasks — all while keeping sight of the bigger picture: every contract and every payment connects back to real services for adults, families and children in our community. This is a mission-critical role that keeps agreements moving, payments accurate, and providers and families well-supported. You might be a great fit if you: Get energized by juggling multiple priorities rather than a single, repetitive task list Are excellent with Excel, Word, and SharePoint Adapt quickly when priorities shift Bring experience in contract management, administration, or oversight Want your work to have a direct, visible impact on families and providers Hiring Range: $57,000.00 - $64,500.00 annually This position has an anticipated work schedule of Monday – Friday; with flexibility between 7:00 am – 6:00 pm, subject to change. Hybrid schedule may be available upon successful completion of the initial evaluation period; subject to change. Due to the sensitive nature of this role, additional background checks may be required, including a Government Program Fraud and Child Welfare Abuse & Neglect database (TRAILS) check. Please be advised this position may close without advance notice, should we receive a sufficient number of qualified applications. This position provides contract planning, development, oversight, and evaluation functions. Employment is subject to the terms, conditions, and policies detailed in the Personnel Policies Manual (PPM). This position requires regular in-person presence as an essential job function. This position may be subject to grant funding. Manages assigned contracts, including contractual oversight, data entry and evaluation, invoice approval, timely renewal, contract disciplinary actions, and customer service. Works with other County offices and Departments to provide or receive information, and to ensure appropriate contractual rules, regulations, and policies are followed. Responds in a timely manner to various groups and individuals regarding contractual questions, concerns, and complaints. Assists in the development of Requests for Proposals (RFP) and other procurement processes (e.g., Invitation for Bid, Requests for Quotes, etc.); evaluates proposals and contractual services to be purchased for programs and projects; participates in proposal and contractual services negotiations. Develops and negotiates contracts, Memoranda of Understanding (MOU), Intergovernmental Agreements (IGA), and grant applications. Works with State and Federal offices as required. Provides consultation to staff and external agencies with regard to contracts, contract development, and compliance. Meets with individual providers and provider groups to offer guidance in achieving contract objectives and makes policy or procedural recommendations based upon findings. Analyzes assigned contracts for cost effectiveness and program effectiveness; makes recommendations with regard to findings to leadership. Analyzes data collected and draws conclusions consistent with professional contract evaluation standards; submits report of same to the leadership. Serves on community or agency boards and task forces as directed. Provides public presentations or training on projects as required. Attends trainings, conferences, and workshops to maintain knowledge and to meet the department’s cornerstone requirements. Performs other duties as required. Supervision Exercised: This classification does not have supervisory authority; however, may be required to provide expertise or limited guidance or direction to employees, such as overseeing work quality, training, and guidance. Typically serves as a subject matter expert on the scope of functional area. Supervision Received: Receives general supervision. This classification typically performs job duties by following established standard operating procedures and/or policies. Regular direction, guidance, and coaching from supervisor may be expected. There is a choice of the appropriate procedure or policy to apply to duties. Performance reviewed periodically. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Knowledge of governmental contracting practices and procedures, including the ability to prepare specifications and facilitate the process for informal and formal procurement solicitations preferred. Knowledge of departmental programs and service delivery systems preferred. Knowledge of and the ability to apply Federal, State, and County contracting requirements, including those for State and Federal grants. Strong proficiency in language composition, grammar, editing, and written presentations. Strong customer service orientation and experience. Proficient in the use of software programs relative to the position, including but not limited to Word, Excel, Access, other Microsoft programs and other database programs. Ability to understand methodology and techniques for program development and evaluation. Ability to communicate and work effectively with co-workers, prospective and contracted providers, other agencies, and the public. Ability to efficiently plan, schedule, organize, and meet deadlines. Ability to assess situations and make prudent and appropriate decisions; ability to apply conflict resolution and problem-solving skills. Ability to interpret and draw valid conclusions from data. Ability to use standard office equipment, including computer, fax machine, copier, and telephone. Maintain regular and punctual attendance. Required Education & Experience High school diploma or equivalent education. Three years of directly related work experience. Associate’s degree in a related field may substitute for one year of the required experience. Bachelor’s degree in a related field may substitute for two years of the required experience. Education substitutions are not cumulative; only the highest qualifying degree will be considered. Preferred Education & Experience Government contract work experience Excel experience Pre-Employment Requirements Must pass conditional post-offer background investigation and drug screen. Duties are primarily performed in a high-volume office and remote work environment dependent on business needs. The classification specification above is intended to describe the general nature of work, key responsibilities, and minimum qualifications. Minimum qualifications reflect the baseline experience required for the classification. Departments may establish additional or preferred qualifications to address operational needs, assignment complexity, and specialized functions, provided such qualifications are job-related, consistent with the intent of the classification, and as approved by the Human Resources department. Specific job assignments, duties, education, experience, licenses/certifications, and working conditions may vary based on the department or office's needs and the requirements of the assigned position. Changes to this classification specification may only be made by the Human Resources Department. #J-18808-Ljbffr El Paso County (CO)