Contract Specialist

Contract Specialist (Administration Building; Waco, TX) Heart of Texas Behavioral Health Network is recruiting for a Contract Specialist. Are you an experienced contract specialist ready for a unique opportunity to be part of a team committed to making a difference in individuals' lives? The Contracts Management Team plays a vital role in supporting the programs and diverse operations of the Heart of Texas Behavioral Health Network by managing contract processes across our entire agency. The Contract Specialist performs complex contract duties including developing, analyzing, evaluating, reviewing, and processing contracts and grants with federal, state, local government entities, other organizations, and private entities. Work requires collaboration with the Contracts Management Team, CEO, senior leadership, and extensive contact with governmental agencies and private entities. Candidates must have knowledge of state procurement and contract management requirements, regulations and best practices. Examples of Work Performed Negotiate, develop, and prepare leases, permits, contracts, and other property agreements. Inspect properties with maintenance supervisor to ensure safety and determine maintenance or repair needs. Work under limited supervision with considerable latitude for initiative and independent judgment. Develop solicitations, contracts, and amendments by identifying provider resources, describing services, evaluating bidder information, and negotiating contract specifications using Texas guidelines, rules, policies, and laws. Monitor contract performance by examining billings, fiscal data, and eligibility determinations for compliance. Monitor contractor requirements: license, certification, training, and insurance for compliance. Complete quarterly contract monitoring process to ensure contractor quality and compliance. Administer the billing process and eligibility monitoring functions for contract billings. Evaluate expenditure data and make projections to ensure appropriate use of funds. Review fiscal expenditure reports for completeness, appropriateness, and accuracy. Serve as liaison with contract providers to ensure participation consistent with program, legal, and fiscal requirements. Coordinate risk assessment process for contract monitoring and planning. Coordinate with Procurement Manager to facilitate complex procurement meetings. Negotiate contracts, renewals, and amendments. Monitor legal and regulatory requirements pertaining to contracting. Develop bid evaluation scoring instruments. Recommend updates for solicitations, contract boilerplate, and other documents. Advise stakeholders on contract administration policies and procedures. Provide input on cancellation of contracts when deviations occur. Prepare specifications for requests for bids. Resolve audit exceptions by defining causes of errors and recommending dispositions. Assist with fleet management. Assist with procurement when necessary. Other duties as assigned. Knowledge, Skills, and Essential Functions Knowledge of state procurement and contract management requirements, regulations and best practices; negotiation and contract development; business administration and accounting principles; contract management policies and procedures. Minimum 3 years of experience developing contracts (preferred); certification is preferred but not required. Experience in monitoring state contracts is preferred but not required. Problem‑solving skills and proficiency with computer software. Team player attitude required for cross‑departmental teamwork. Enthusiasm for cross‑functional work. Eagerness to learn new skills. Self‑motivated and strives for excellence. Highly organized, adept at prioritizing work and managing time efficiently. Arithmetic computation ability (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division). Ability to read, interpret, and act on basic financial statements, regulations, and policies. Ability to evaluate contracts, interpret policies, and recommend status; negotiate features; communicate effectively in written and verbal formats. Maintain good attendance record. Effectively prioritize workload and meet short deadlines. Establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external stakeholders. Education, Training, and Experience Minimum 3 years of experience developing contracts (preferred). Experience with state or local contracts preferred but not required. State Comptroller Certification in Contracts Management (CTCM) may be required within 6 months of start date. Salary $55,000 without CTCM certification $60,000 with CTCM certification Hours Monday‑Friday 8am‑5pm Benefits Employer paid Health Insurance Employer paid Dental Insurance Employer paid Life Insurance Employer paid Short Term Disability Employer paid Employee Assistance Program Payroll Direct Deposit 12 paid holidays per year Excellent 401‑K Retirement Plan (Center will contribute 12% of employee earnings) Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) – begins after 3 months of full‑time employment Additional Information This is a non‑management position. This is a full‑time position. #J-18808-Ljbffr