Manager of Contract Operations

Date: Apr 30, 2026Location:AUSTIN, TXJoin 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.Functional Title: Manager of Contract OperationsJob Title: Manager VIAgency: Health & Human Services CommDepartment: Contract OperationsPosting Number: 16452Closing Date: 05/14/2026Posting Audience: Internal and ExternalOccupational Category: ManagementSalary Range: $7,015.16 - $9,166.67Pay Frequency: MonthlySalary Group: TEXAS-B-27Shift: DayAdditional Shift: Days (First)Telework: Eligible for TeleworkTravel: Up to 10%Regular/Temporary: RegularFull Time/Part Time: Full timeFLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: ExemptFacility Location:Job Location City: AUSTINJob Location Address: 4601 W GUADALUPE STOther Locations: AustinMOS Codes: 0203,0207,0302,0520,0602,0802,1802,5502,6302,6502,7202,7208,7210,7220,111X,112X,113X,114X,16GX,41AX611X,612X,631X,632X,641X,648X,86M0,86P0,8U000,9G100,SEI15Brief Job DescriptionThe Contract Operations Manager in the Strategic Operations Division of the System Support Services provides senior‑level leadership for a dynamic team responsible for managing complex, high‑value contracts that support critical agency operations. This role combines strategic oversight with hands‑on contract management and offers the opportunity to shape policies, improve processes, and mentor experienced contract professionals.The manager leads day‑to‑day contract operations, oversees staff performance and development, and serves as a trusted advisor to leadership on contract strategy, compliance, and risk management. In this role, you’ll collaborate across divisions, work closely with vendors and oversight partners, and help ensure contracts deliver value, accountability, and results for the organization.Essential Job Functions (EJFs)Management and Supervision.Supervises a team of contract specialists, contract managers, and support staff. Assigns work, sets deliverables, monitors performance, and conducts performance evaluations. Provides coaching, training, and professional development; reviews staff work product for quality and compliance. Conducts regular one-on-ones and team meetings; identifies skill gaps and arranges appropriate training. Recommends hiring, disciplinary, and termination actions in coordination with HR and division leadership. Manages staff workload distribution to ensure timely contract execution, particularly around fiscal year-end and biennium transitions.35%Contract Management (Working Lead Responsibilities).Personally manages a portfolio of complex, high-dollar, or high-risk contracts. Oversees contract execution, monitoring, amendments, renewals, change orders, and close-out for assigned contracts. Conducts contract monitoring activities, including invoice review, deliverable validation, performance reviews, and corrective action coordination. Serves as primary point of contact for assigned vendors and as escalation point for contracts managed by direct reports. Reviews and approves procurement documentation, including PCS448s, requisitions, and supporting justification packages. Coordinates with the Procurement and Contracting Services division on solicitations and contract execution.30%Strategy and Governance.Develops, implements, and maintains internal policies, procedures, and standard operating procedures for the Contract Operations department. Identifies process improvement opportunities and leads implementation of changes. Supports the Director of Business Operations in strategic planning, budget development, performance reporting, and stakeholder engagement. Represents Contract Operations in cross-divisional and cross-agency meetings. Supports legislative inquiries, audit responses, public information requests, and Sunset review activities related to contracts.15%Compliance and Risk Management.Ensures all contracting activity complies with the Texas Government Code, Texas Administrative Code, Texas Procurement and Contract Management Guide, federal procurement standards where applicable, agency policy, and division standards. Identifies, escalates, and mitigates contract-related risk, including vendor performance issues, scope creep, financial exposure, and legal exposure. Coordinates with the Office of Chief Counsel, Procurement and Contracting Services, Internal Audit, and other oversight functions as needed.15%Other Duties As Assigned.Performs other duties as assigned by the Director of Business Operations and division leadership.5%Knowledge OfKnowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs):State of Texas procurement and contract management law, rules, policies, and best practices, including the Texas Procurement and Contract Management GuideContract management, monitoring, and reporting practices for complex services contractsBudgeting, cost analysis, and financial review of contract documentation; supervisory and management principles, practices, and techniquesStrategic planning, performance management, and process improvement methodologiesHHS System procurement processes including SCOR, CAPPS, and PCS workflowsSkill InManaging complex contract portfolios post-awardSupervising and developing professional staff who manage contracts; reviewing staff contract work product for quality and complianceManaging multiple high-priority contracts and projects under time-sensitive deadlinesWritten and oral communication, including communication with executive leadership, vendors, and external stakeholdersUse of Microsoft Office, SharePoint, SCOR, CAPPS, and other contract management systemsAbility ToPersonally manage complex contracts while simultaneously supervising staff (working manager model)Make sound, independent judgments on contract matters with significant financial or operational impactBuild and maintain effective working relationships with internal stakeholders, vendors, oversight agencies, and partner agenciesAdapt quickly to shifting priorities and emerging agency, legislative, or vendor issues; lead and develop a team of contract professionals.Registrations, Licensure Requirements Or Certifications Active and valid Certified Texas Contract Manager (CTCM) certification at time of hire. CTCM must remain active throughout employment.Initial Screening Criteria Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major coursework in business administration, public administration, finance, accounting, or a related field. Experience may substitute for education on a year-for-year basis. Seven (7) years or more of full-time professional experience in contract management, contract administration, procurement, or contract monitoring, with at least some experience involving complex, high-dollar services contracts Three (3) years of supervisory or lead experience over professional contract staff. Demonstrated experience personally managing complex, high-dollar, or high-risk services contracts while simultaneously supervising staff (working manager model). Demonstrated experience developing or implementing contract policies, procedures, or standard operating procedures.Preferred Master’s degree in business administration, public administration, or a related field. Certified Texas Contract Developer (CTCD) certification. Experience managing contracts in a Texas state agency or HHS System environment. Experience with State of Texas procurement systems, including SCOR, CAPPS, and PCS workflows. Experience supporting legislative inquiries, audit responses, public information requests, or Sunset review activities at a managerial level. Experience leading process improvement initiatives within a contract management or procurement function.Additional InformationN/AReview our Tips for Success when applying for jobs at DFPS, DSHS and HHSC.Active Duty, Military, Reservists, Guardsmen, And VeteransMilitary 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 AccommodationsIn 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 EligibilityDepending 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 FormTelework DisclaimerThis 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.Nearest Major Market: Austin