CACO Researcher

Join the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and be part of a team committed to creating a positive impact in the lives of fellow Texans. At HHSC, your contributions matter, and we support you at each stage of your life and work journey. Our comprehensive benefits package includes 100% paid employee health insurance for full-time eligible employees, a defined benefit pension plan, generous time off benefits, numerous opportunities for career advancement and more. Explore more details on the Benefits of Working at HHS webpage.

Brief Job Description:

Contract Specialist IV (CSIV), in the Contract Administration and Provider Monitoring (CAPM) Office within Medicaid and CHIP Services, performs advanced (senior-level) consultative services and technical assistance work to ensure contractor services meet contractual obligations and State expectations. Within CAPM, Claims Administrator Contract Oversight (CACO) is responsible for monitoring contract requirements, identifying performance trends, researching, evaluating improvement activities, and contract remedies when non-compliance issues are identified. The CSIV is responsible for governance documents, open records, the Vendor Performance Tracking System (VPTS), contract master files for MES contracts, and serving as the researcher coordinator for CACO. The CSIV will be responsible for coordinating with all identified stakeholders within Health Human Services Commission (HHSC) and other agencies in the contract monitoring process; monitoring reports; developing plans to correct identified problems and issues related to contract; and assist with CACO with audits, monitoring and performance reporting of the Texas Medicaid Enterprise System (MES) contracts and other contracts as assigned. Works under limited supervision, with considerable latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

Essential Job Functions (EJFs):

Provides consultation and technical assistance to program areas regarding contracting needs and processes. Lead governance document management (research, analysis, evaluation, development, and implementation of standard operational procedures); develop methods and procedures analysis techniques; of work simplification methods; of forms and records design and control procedures; and of data analysis. Ensure that the governance documents are reviewed and updated annually or as needed. (30%)

Develop and implement complex performance management plans for the Texas MES contracts and others as assigned.  Performance management plans must include monitoring of key measures as well as an approach to incorporating review of other contract requirements and base contract provisions periodically. Plans include routine, on-site review of contractor performance. Updates plans routinely and in response to monitoring, audit, and other findings. Plans require input from other HHS Enterprise agency stakeholders and approval from the Performance Management unit Manager. (30%)

Conducts complex research and analysis of contract issues (i.e., audit resolution, legislative actions, and inquiries), including examination of contracts, laws, rules, regulations, or policies that impact or potentially impact the unit, agency, or the division. Monitoring of key measures, as well as an approach to incorporating review of other contract requirements and base contract provisions on a periodic basis. Analyzes legislation and audits to determine impacts on the agency, division, and unit in contract management. (20%)

Assist with audits, including audit reviews. Reviews and evaluates recommendations for improvement and standardization of processes. Reviews complex technical documents to validate proposed changes or propose alternate changes. Evaluates proposed changes to contract administration and oversight functions. (10%)

Researches and advises management on contract, legislative changes related to contracts, identifying the importance and defining the scope, purpose, objectives, time frames, and resource requirements. Researches and interprets historical, current, and projected documents related to contracts, which will include identifying risks and issues, and areas for which procedural or policies and procedures changes are needed. (10%)

Knowledge Skills Abilities (KSAs):

Knowledge of Medicaid/CHIP.

Knowledge of effective management principles.

Knowledge in project management theories and practices applicable to mid-to-large-sized scope projects.

Knowledge of project management theories of systems and procedures used to evaluate a contractor's and subcontractor's performance.

Knowledge of contract management principles and guides.

Knowledge of related state and federal laws, regulations, policies, rules, and requirements as they relate to Medicaid, contracts, and information technology.

Knowledge of the Texas legislative process and public accountability systems.

Knowledge of the principles of leadership and how to effectively interact with various leadership styles.

Skill in communication and public speaking.

Skill in managing multiple and competing priorities.

Skill in identifying problems, evaluating alternatives, and implementing solutions.

Skill in working collaboratively and cooperatively with diverse groups.

Skill in spreadsheet, database, and/or SharePoint applications to create tools and reports

Ability to exercise sound judgment in making critical decisions.

Ability to analyze complex information.

Ability to develop plans to address identified issues.

Ability to demonstrate negotiation and facilitation skills.

Ability to communicate orally and in writing.

Ability to plan, assign, and/or supervise the work of others.

Ability to think creatively and support creative thinking in others.

Ability to establish goals and objectives.

Ability to effectively manage, motivate, and build effective work teams.

Ability to make timely and effective decisions.

Ability to interpret data and develop effective operating procedures.

Ability to organize and present information effectively, both orally and in writing.

Ability to evaluate reports comprehensively and accurately.

Registrations, Licensure Requirements, or Certifications:

To maintain employment as a Contract Specialist IV, this position will require an applicant to obtain specialized certification as a Certified Texas Contract Manager (CTCM). If not currently a CTCM, the selected candidate must obtain CTCM certification within 12 months of the hire date unless otherwise approved by the supervisor. 

Initial Screening Criteria:

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor's degree.  Three years of experience in at least one of the following: contract administration, quality assurance monitoring and review and performance management. Education and experience may be substituted for one another on a year to year basis.

Additional Information:

N/A

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Active Duty, Military, Reservists, Guardsmen, and Veterans:

Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information please see the Texas State Auditor’s Job Descriptions, Military Crosswalk and Military Crosswalk Guide at Texas State Auditor's Office - Job Descriptions.

ADA Accommodations:

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHSC and DSHS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.

Pre-Employment Checks and Work Eligibility:

Depending on the program area and position requirements, applicants selected for hire may be required to pass background and other due diligence checks.

HHSC uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Download the I-9 Form

Telework Disclaimer:

This position may be eligible for telework.  Please note, all HHS positions are subject to state and agency telework policies in addition to the discretion of the direct supervisor and business needs.