• Job Description

  Req#: 4431742
  Salary : $64,092.00 - $86,208.00 Annually
  
  Location : Thurston County - Olympia, WA
  
  Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
  
  Remote Employment: Remote Optional
  
  Job Number: 2024-03453
  
  Department: Health Care Authority
  
  Division: DLS
  
  Opening Date: 03/14/2024
  
  Closing Date: Continuous
  
  Salary Information: The high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step
  
  Description
  
  Contracts Specialist 3 (CS3/DLS)
  
  71090213
  
  This recruitment is posted continuously. Application review will begin on 03/21/2024 and you are encouraged to submit your application materials as soon as possible. The hiring manager reserves the right to close the posting at any time once a selection has been made.
  
  This position supports contract managers within Health Care Authority (HCA) programs in drafting and negotiating contracts and competitive solicitations. The CS3 ensures that the contract development process moves through completion by communicating needs and timelines with contract managers and negotiating with vendors. The ideal candidate will possess contract and competitive solicitation experience along with strong writing and critical thinking skills.
  
  All HCA employees will apply an equity lens to their work, which may include but is not limited to all analyses of core business and processes.
  
  About the division and position:
  Within the Central Services Administration of HCA, the Division of Legal Services (DLS) provides the people, processes, and expertise to reduce risk while meeting the agency's strategic goals. Within DLS, the Office of Contracting and Procurement (OCP) is managed by the agency's Contracts Administrator. This position reports directly to the Contracts and Procurement Manager - Operations and may, at times, take direction directly from the Contracts Administrator or other Contracts and Procurement Managers within OCP as necessary.
  
  This position performs complex or politically sensitive activities related to contracts and procurements related to the All-Payer Claims Database (APCD) and supports other information technology or data share contracting and procurement activities as needed.
  
  This position is eligible to telework and is typically not required to report on-site. The default assigned work location of all Health Care Authority (HCA) positions - both on-site and telework eligible positions - is within the State of Washington. Frequency of onsite work will vary based on business and operational needs. HCA may choose, but is not required, to support out-of-state telework on a case-by-case basis.
  Duties
  
  Some of what you will do:
  
  • Collaborates with program/project management staff on developing the contents for competitive contracts. Independently writes, and or provides technical advice for competitive solicitations including RFP's, RFQ's, RFQQ's, etc.
  • Approves and/or develops the contents for - and manages the process of - advertising for competitive contracts. Develops the work plan for contract solicitations.
  • Manages and provides oversight of appropriate solicitation processes by working in conjunction with program and fiscal staff to ensure compliance with program and fiscal requirements.
  • Facilitates and/or provides technical advice for the Statement of Work (SOW), contract deliverables, contract amendments, and other contract documents for/with program staff and external constituents using best practice contracting principles.
  • Facilitates contract negotiations, including face-to-face and written communication, with internal and external stakeholders and legal advisors while providing subject matter knowledge to general terms and conditions.
  • Manages and facilitates protest debriefings with non-successful bidders.
  • Communicates with program management to ensure documentation is accurate and submitted prior to deadlines.
  • Independently reviews and/or approves contract requests and determines applicable regulations.
  • Provides technical assistance to internal and external constituents and stakeholders regarding contract activities, including providing advice and resources.
  • Conducts trainings to agency staff to fulfill agency needs and the statutory requirements for contract managers.
  • Mentors junior Contract Specialists with contracting and procurement subject matter.
  
  Qualifications
  
  Required qualifications:
  
  Qualifying candidates will satisfy one of the following requirement options:
  • Option 1:
    • One year of experience as a Contracts Specialist 2 in state government or equivalent role.
  • Option 2:
    • Bachelor's degree involving major study in business administration, public administration, business law, commerce, mathematics, statistics, economics, or closely allied field and
    • Three years of experience in negotiating, administering, or terminating government contracts, contract property management, contract cost or price analyses or contract compliance administration.
  • Option 3:
    • Master's degree in one of the above academic disciplines and
    • Two years of experience as described above.
  • Option 4:
    • Law degree from an accredited college or university approved by the Washington State Bar Association and
    • One year of experience as described above.
  • Option 5:
    • Seven years of experience as described above.
  Note: Additional qualifying experience may be substituted, year for year, for the required education.
  
  Preferred qualifications:
  • Three years of professional experience (high level proficiency) developing, managing, and providing consultation for competitive government information technology or data share contracts in Washington.
  • One year of experience collaboratively working as a project team member in a large enterprise data management system.
  • Two years of professional experience developing and providing consultation for non-competitive government contracts in Washington.
  • Two years of professional experience monitoring and negotiating budget and contracts.
  • Two years of professional experience developing, managing, and providing consultation for non-competitive and competitive grants.
  • One year of experience collaboratively working as a project team member in a large enterprise data management system.
  • Independently provide consistent, high-quality (error-free) reviews of written communications, contracts, and solicitation documentation with acute attention to detail.
  • Ability to interpret and convey rules and regulations, and legal terminology to broad audiences and make recommendations in the best interest of the agency.
  • Ability to independently prioritize a high-volume workload and manage competing program staff priorities.
  • Clear, accurate verbal and written communication.
  • Strong analytical ability demonstrated by using data and information in a clear and rational thought process to assess and understand issues, evaluate options, create accurate conclusions, and make clear and sound decisions.
  
  How to apply:
  
  Only candidates who reflect the minimum qualifications on their NEOGOV profile will be considered. Failure to follow the application instructions below may lead to disqualification. To apply for this position, you will need to complete your profile which includes three professional references and attach:
  • A cover letter that specifically addresses how you meet the qualifications for this position
  • Current resume
  
  To take advantage of veteran preference, please do the following:
  • Attach a copy of your DD214 (Member 4 long-form copy), NGB 22, or USDVA signed verification of service letter.
  • Please black out any PII (personally identifiable information) data such as social security numbers. Include your name as it appears on your application in careers.wa.gov.
  
  Supplemental Information
  
  About HCA:
  Functioning as both the state's largest health care purchaser and its behavioral health authority, the Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA) is a leader in ensuring Washington residents have the opportunity to be as healthy as possible.
  
  There are three pillars of our work: Apple Health (Medicaid); the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) and School Employees Benefits Board (SEBB) programs; and behavioral health and recovery. Under these pillars, HCA purchases health care, including behavioral health treatment for more than 2.7 million Washington residents and provides behavioral health prevention, crisis, and recovery supports to all Washington residents.
  
  What we have to offer:
  • Meaningful work with friendly co-workers who care about those we serve
  • A clear agency mission that drives our work and is person-centered
  • A healthy work/life balance, including alternative/flexible schedules and mobile work options.
  • A great total compensation and benefit package
  • A safe, pleasant workplace in a convenient location with restaurants, and shopping nearby.
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • And free parking!
  
  Notes:
  This position is covered by the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE). Once the listed position(s) is(are) filled, this recruitment announcement may also be used to fill additional position(s) for up to sixty (60) days.
  
  Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history will be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment.
  
  HCA is an equal opportunity employer. We value the importance of creating an environment in which all employees can feel respected, included, and empowered to bring unique ideas to the agency. HCA has five employee resource groups (ERGs). ERGs are voluntary, employee-led groups whose aim is to foster a diverse, inclusive workplace aligned with HCA's mission. Our diversity and inclusion efforts include embracing different cultures, backgrounds and viewpoints while fostering growth and advancement in the workplace. Studies have shown women, racial and ethnic minorities, and persons of disability are less likely to apply for jobs unless they feel they meet every qualification as described in a job description. Persons over 40 years of age, disabled and Vietnam era veterans, as well as people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are also encouraged to apply. If you have any questions about the required qualifications or how your experience relates to them, please contact us at Persons with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may contact Jake Nelko at 360-725-0945 or
  
  The Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA) is an All applicants with a in the United States are encouraged to apply.
  
  E-Verify® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
  
  to receive a list of new job postings at HCA.
  
  More than Just a Paycheck!
  Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
  
  We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
  
  Read about our benefits:
  The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
  
  Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
  
  Insurance Benefits
  Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
  
  Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
  
  To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
  
  Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
  
  Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.
  
  The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.
  
  Retirement and Deferred Compensation
  State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.
  
  Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
  
  Social Security
  All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
  
  Public Service Loan Forgiveness
  If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
  
  Holidays
  Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
  
  Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.
  
  Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.
  
  Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.
  
  Sick Leave
  Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.
  
  Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
  
  Vacation (Annual Leave)
  Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.
  
  Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.
  
  Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
  
  As provided in , an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.
  
  Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.
  
  Military Leave
  Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.
  
  Bereavement Leave
  Most employees whose family member or household member dies, are entitled to three (3) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.
  
  Additional Leave
  Leave Sharing
  
  Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
  Leave Without Pay
  
  Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
  
  Updated 12-31-2022
  
  01
  
  Please select the highest level of education that you have completed:
  • High school graduation or equivalent
  • Associate degree
  • Bachelor's degree
  • Master's degree
  • Law degree from an accredited college or university approved by the Washington State Bar Association
  • None of the above
  
  
  02
  
  Which of the following best describes your professional experience in negotiating, administering, or terminating government contracts, contract property management, contract cost or price analyses, or contract compliance administration?
  • I do not have this experience.
  • Less than 1 year
  • More than 1 year, but less than 2 years
  • More than 2 years, but less than 3 years
  • More than 3 years, but less than 5 years
  • More than 5 years, but less than 7 years
  • More than 7 years
  
  
  03
  
  If you indicated you have the experience noted in the above question, please explain how, where, and when you gained this knowledge and experience (must be reflected in the work experience of your application). Do not state "see resume". If you answered no, please type N/A in the text box below.
  
  04
  
  I acknowledge that I have included at least three references and added a resume and cover letter to the attachments section of my application.
  • Yes
  • No
  
  
  05
  
  If hired for this position, do you currently possess required documents to allow you to legally work within the United States? The attached link lists acceptable documents: https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents
  • Yes
  • No
  
  
  06
  
  Will you now or in the future require sponsorship for an immigration-related employment benefit?For purposes of this question "sponsorship for an immigration-related employment benefit" means "an H-1B visa petition, an O-1 visa petition, an E-3 visa petition, TN status and 'job flexibility benefits' (also known as I-140 portability or Adjustment of Status portability) for long-delayed adjustment of status applications that have been pending for 180 days or longer." (Please contact us at the email address on the bottom of this job posting if you are uncertain whether you may need immigration sponsorship or desire clarification.)
  • Yes
  • No
  
  
  Required Question

• About the company

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