Contract Specialist

Position Summary The City of Harris County seeks a Contract Management Specialist to coordinate and manage procurement of complex, highly technical materials, equipment, and services on a competitive basis. The specialist will create contract specifications and standards, collaborate with engineering, operations, maintenance, and other technical personnel to develop detailed specifications, and recommend the type and quality of materials, services, supplies, and equipment. Key Responsibilities Coordinate with Harris County Purchasing Agents to procure contracts for different divisions. Research, write, review, and evaluate purchase orders, contracts, and bid specifications for complex and highly technical materials, equipment, and services, ensuring completeness, accuracy, and compliance with County and departmental policies and procedures. Develop or assist with solicitations (RFPs, RFQs), including writing specifications, evaluating bids, working with procurement teams, and ensuring competitive procurement practices. Research vendors and evaluate their ability to provide and availability of quality materials, equipment, and services. Administer contract amendments, renewals, extensions, terminations, or closeouts, and ensure all modifications follow policy and are properly documented. Maintain contract files, records, and data systems; prepare internal and external reports on contract status, contractor performance, risks, and financials. Serve as a liaison between legal, finance, programming teams, procurement, and vendors; address questions, resolve contract-related issues, and ensure alignment with programmatic goals. Develop or contribute to policies, procedures, and best practices related to contract management to ensure consistency, compliance, and efficiency. Participate in long‑range purchase planning and needs analysis to simplify and standardize service and commodity types and reduce costs. Provide technical assistance and perform duties as assigned. Requirements Education Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Materials Management, Engineering, Purchasing, or a closely related field. Experience Minimum of 2 years of relevant experience in contract development, management, monitoring, or procurement. Knowledge, Skill & Abilities (KSAs) Strong contract management and negotiation skills. Analytical skills: ability to examine budget/expenditure data, identify discrepancies, and perform risk analysis. Attention to detail and strong organization. Excellent written & verbal communication skills, including ability to interact with diverse stakeholders. Ability to work independently and exercise sound judgment. Proficiency with contract management or procurement software/systems; familiarity with tools for tracking, reporting, and document management. Ability to manage multiple contracts/projects concurrently, meeting deadlines. Licensure Valid Texas Driver's License upon hire, with a good driving record. Emergency Deployment & Continuity Of Operations Requirement Participate in the classification process of departmental staff based on MEF responsibilities. Be available for temporary deployment to an alternative work location, role, or telework assignment during emergency events. Confirm work assignments with supervisor prior to reporting to any worksite during such events. Remain flexible in assuming alternative duties as directed to support County operations continuity. General Information Position Type: Full‑Time | Regular | 40 hours per week. Typical Hours Of Work: Subject to early mornings, late evenings, weekends, and holidays as required by the project or workload. Salary: Commensurate with experience, based on 26 pay periods. Physical Demands And Environmental Exposure Most assignments will be performed in an office, meeting, or operations command center environment, with some field work required. The position may involve extended work hours during emergency operations. Tasks include bending, stooping, lifting up to 25 lbs., frequent walking, standing, sitting, reaching, and ascending/descending stairs. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities. Featured Benefits Medical, vision, and dental insurance. Wellness programs. Professional development opportunities. Flexible spending account. 457 deferred compensation plans. Retirement pension (TCDRS). Transportation assistance (Metro Ride Sponsor Program). Disability and life insurance. Qualified Employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF). Equal Employment Opportunity Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. For more information, visit Special accommodations can be requested by calling View phone number on click.appcast.io or emailing View email address on click.appcast.io. #J-18808-Ljbffr