Contract Specialist

About the role

Make a real impact in behavioral health services. This Contract Specialist role offers the opportunity to streamline critical operations for a leading state agency's Substance Use Contract Management team. Your expertise in contract development and management will directly support life-saving treatment and recovery programs across Texas. Join a dedicated state agency team that's making a real difference in the lives of Texans; the Behavioral Health Services Division manages critical contracts that fund substance use treatment and recovery programs statewide, and the Substance Use Contract Management team seeks a detail‑oriented professional to help streamline operations and ensure vital services reach communities in need.

Responsibilities

• Develop, process, and manage contracts for substance use treatment and recovery programs serving communities throughout Texas
• Evaluate existing contracts and provide strategic recommendations on contract status, renewals, and improvements
• Interpret and apply state and federal policies, procedures, and regulations to all contract management activities
• Analyze fiscal data to ensure compliance, cost‑effectiveness, and alignment with program requirements
• Draft, write, and edit contract requirements, specifications, and amendments with precision and regulatory accuracy
• Negotiate contract terms, conditions, and features with service providers and stakeholders
• Collaborate with program staff, legal teams, and external partners to ensure seamless contract execution and program delivery

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited four‑year college or university with major coursework in business administration
• Proven experience in contract development, management, or evaluation work
• Strong ability to evaluate contracts and recommend future status and strategic improvements
• Expertise in interpreting policies, procedures, and regulations in a government or healthcare setting
• Demonstrated ability to evaluate fiscal data for reasonableness, necessity, and conformity with contract requirements

Skills

• Excellent technical writing skills with experience drafting and editing contract requirements and specifications
• Proven negotiation skills and ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders
• Outstanding written and verbal communication abilities

Qualifications

• Certified Texas Contract Manager (CTCM) certification (preferred)

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage available from the first day of the month following 60 days of employment
• Participation in a 403(b) retirement plan
• Priority placement for qualified applicants with chronic medical conditions and/or disabilities
• Weekly payments through direct deposit

Pay

Compensation Rate: $48.00/hour. Length of Engagement: 6+ months with potential for extension. Location: Austin, Texas. Target Start Date: ASAP.

Schedule

Days/Hours: Monday - Friday, standard business hours.