HCSS Contracting Specialist I (Partial Remote)

JOB DESCRIPTION: Works under the direction of the Contracting Manager and collaborates closely with internal departments and external vendors to execute contract management, sourcing, and procurement of goods and services. This position is responsible for supporting institution-wide supply chain contracting initiatives, including drafting, reviewing, and negotiating contracts; managing contract renewals and modifications; ensuring compliance with applicable laws and UTMB policies; and maintaining accurate contract records in procurement systems.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Manage a portfolio of contracts throughout the contract lifecycle process.
• Draft, review, negotiate, and manage contracts for various products and services to ensure compliance and secure the best value for the organization.
• Collaborate and coordinate with supply chain, legal, finance, and institutional stakeholders to evaluate sourcing opportunities, support vendor selection, and optimize contract terms.
• Work in collaboration with the Contract Administrator and Value Analysis teams on the execution of contracting and sourcing strategy.
• Provide support for internal and external customers on contract details and compliance.
• Utilize data analytics and business intelligence to generate actionable insights on sourcing, supplier value, and contract performance for reporting to leadership.
• Demonstrate exceptional communication skills, relaying complex contract information to various internal and external stakeholders.
• Identify, assess, and mitigate contract and operational risks, escalating issues when necessary to leadership or legal.
• Provide effective record keeping, ensuring that all contract documents are readily accessible and categorized appropriately within the data management systems.
• Foster positive vendor relationships and support the resolution of contractual issues, ensuring that UTMB's business needs are met.
• Monitor contract compliance in accordance with State, UT System, and UTMB contractual requirements.
• Assist in collecting information and preparing documents for review related to internal and external audit requests.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Marginal or Periodic Functions:

• Prepare information and participate in quarterly business reviews.
• Data review for state reporting.
• Participate in process improvement projects.
• Participate in cost savings and procurement optimization.
• Engage with UT System and UT Alliance partners on contracting projects.

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES

• Effective oral and written communication skills.
• Proficiency in the administration of bids and contracts.
• Exercise considerable judgment in scheduling and coordinating work.
• Collaboration with all levels of internal and external stakeholders to affect the final determination of problems of recurring but non-routine nature.
• Demonstrate intermediate use of Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and Word.
• Knowledge in the review and understanding of legal contracts, terms, and conditions.
• Ability to work well in a team environment, both with internal, cross-functional, and cross-institutional teams.
• Ability to understand the intended audience and knowledge of subject matter.
• Ability to actively listen and handle difficult or delicate situations with diplomacy and tact.
• Commitment to excellence and customer service demonstrated through flexibility, teamwork, professionalism, and a high level of problem-solving skills.
• Ability to be responsible, flexible, accountable, and detail-oriented with the ability to multitask, adapt, and prioritize meeting deadlines.
• Strong negotiation skills.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, Health Care Administration, Supply Chain, or relevant field plus two (2) years of relevant experience.
• An equivalent combination of education and experience relevant to the role may be considered for this position.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in using supply chain contract management software, Jaggaer and PeopleSoft
• Experience with public procurement, preferably with the State of Texas entities.
• Knowledge of healthcare procurement.
• Utilization of AI tools, including but not limited to Microsoft Copilot.
• C.P.S.M., C.P.P.B, C.P.P.O, CTCM, or an equivalent nationally recognized certification

WORKING ENVIRONMENT/EQUIPMENT

Standard office equipment.

• HCSS is the in-house staffing agency for UTMB; therefore, this position is not eligible for TRS benefits. However, employees do have the opportunity to participate in the 401(k) retirement plan offered through HCSS.

Compensation

• Hiring Range: $33 - $41 per hour