TDA - Finance - Contract Admin Manager (58204)

Agency Information: The Texas Department of Agriculture Financial Services Division supports TDA programs by performing financial duties in the areas of accounting, budget, purchasing, contracting, accounts payable, and payroll. This position requires physical presence for work at one of the following TDA locations: Austin (HQ), TX. Core business hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, with limited customer service available between 6:00-8:00 a.m. and 5:00-6:00 p.m.

About the role

The Contract Administration Manager performs advanced contract administration work for the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA). You will oversee the execution and administration of large scope or high-dollar contracts, including defining requirements, negotiating, awarding, developing, and monitoring contracts. This role serves as the subject matter expert and point-of-contact for contracts from initiation to close-out, mentoring and guiding staff. Work is performed under limited supervision with considerable latitude for initiative and independent judgment.

Responsibilities

• Oversee or prepare the scope of work, specifications, and conditions for new contracts; prepare contracts; lead negotiation strategies; and award new contracts.
• Provide customer consultation, evaluate customer requirements, and advise on contract specifications to balance best value and cost savings.
• Oversee the distribution of solicitations to vendors and review submitted proposals for administrative compliance.
• Coordinate the processing of contract documents to ensure management understands and authorizes contract terms.
• Develop short- and long-term strategies and goals for the scope of work, statement of work, specifications, technical, and functional requirements in agency solicitations.
• Conduct periodic reviews of contract deliverables, payment milestones, and compliance to refine future specifications.
• Perform contract compliance reviews and performance analyses to ensure contractual obligations are met.
• Utilize collaborative skills to interface with business units and manage complex interactions involving all parties.
• Serve as a resource for divisions/contract monitors on escalated issues of an unusual nature.
• Investigate and resolve discrepancies, complaints, and disputes by negotiating settlements or canceling/terminating contracts.
• Initiate and oversee special studies or surveys to assess consumer and program outcomes.
• Act as the principal contract liaison between agency management, contractors, the Legislature, and other customers.
• Plan, develop, and conduct presentations.
• Provide input on or prepare the contract budget; recommend budget allocations; monitor and review budget allocations; and provide budget forecasts.
• Review and analyze legislation related to procurement and contract management, including tracking legislative bills and assisting with bill analysis.
• Identify or forecast cost savings for initial contracts, extensions, and amendments compared to previous contracts.
• May supervise the work of others.
• Follow all TDA policies and procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree (one year of work experience related to the essential duties may substitute for one year of college).
• Three (3) years of work experience in contract administration, management, evaluation, or monitoring of contract providers.
• Certified Texas Contract Manager (CTCM) and Certified Texas Contract Developer (CTCD) required within 12 months of hire.
• Work experience as a purchaser in government developing solicitations and contracts for high-value or complex procurements.

Preferred Qualifications

• Certified Texas Contract Manager (CTCM) and Certified Texas Contract Developer (CTCD).

Skills

• Knowledge of negotiation strategies and techniques; contract administration and cost monitoring for large scope or high-dollar contracts; systems and procedures for evaluating third-party vendor performance; and local, state, and federal laws relevant to administering federal or state funds.
• Skill in developing contracts, problem resolution, and using computers and applicable software.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment in critical decisions; analyze complex information and develop plans; interpret complex data; demonstrate negotiation and facilitation skills; communicate effectively orally and in writing; supervise the work of others; and exercise sound judgment and discretion.

Working Conditions

Requires working in a normal office environment with potential exposure to dust and environmental allergens. Mostly sedentary but may involve walking, standing, pulling, pushing, kneeling, stooping, and bending.