Contract Specialist

Texas State University

San Marcos, TX

JOB DETAILS
SALARY
SKILLS
Analysis Skills, Best Practices, Bobcat Equipment, Business Administration, Candidate Sourcing, Communication Skills, Computer Skills, Continuous Improvement, Contract Analysis, Contract Approval, Contract Management, Contract Negotiation, Contract Processing, Contract Requirements, Contract Review, Data Quality, Decision Support, Detail Oriented, Documentation, ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning), Economics, Employment Law, Federal Laws and Regulations, Financial Regulations, Funding, Higher Education, Legal, Loading/Unloading, Mail Processing, Maintain Compliance, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Office, Microsoft Outlook, Microsoft Word, Multitasking, Negotiation Skills, Organizational Skills, People Management, Performance Analysis, Physical Demands, Policy Development, Pricing, Problem Solving Skills, Procurement Strategy, Proofreading, Public Administration, Public Finance, Purchasing/Procurement, Regulations, Regulatory Compliance, Risk Management, SAP ECC (fka SAP R/3 and SAP ERP), Social Networking, Sourcing Strategy, Staff Policies, Staff Training, State Laws and Regulations, Time Management, Tuition Fees
LOCATION
San Marcos, TX
POSTED
15 days ago

Posting Information

Posting Information

Posting Number 2026439 Posting/Functional Title Contract Specialist University Pay Plan Title Contract Specialist Location San Marcos Department Procurement and Strategic Sourcing Recruitment Type Open Recruiting Job Type Full-Time Funding Source Permanent Monthly Salary $4,646.00 Job Category Exempt Required Qualifications: Applicants must specifically address how they meet these required qualifications to meet the requirements of the position.

  • Experience: Proven background in contracting, procurement, and/or solicitations, typically 2-5 years or more in contract administration or a related field. Relevant education may be substituted for work experience on a year-for-year basis, where applicable.
  • Communication Skills: Strong proficiency in preparing well-written, clear, grammatically correct, and accurate documents and correspondence, complemented by excellent proofreading abilities.
  • Technical Skills: Proficient in computer use, especially Microsoft Office Suite applications such as Outlook, Word, and Excel; familiarity with contract management software is a plus.
  • Professionalism: Demonstrated ethical behavior and the ability to maintain professionalism in all interactions.
  • Cognitive Abilities: Ability to understand, interpret, retain complex information, and apply it effectively in the contracting process.
  • Multitasking and Deadline Management: Capable of handling multiple tasks in a high-demand environment while consistently meeting deadlines.
  • Organizational Skills: Strong attention to detail and organizational capabilities, including creating and analyzing reports related to contracts and procurement.
  • Physical Requirements: Ability to perform sedentary work with occasional lifting of up to 10 lbs., assist in carrying files, and support loading or unloading activities during events.
  • Visual Requirements: Excellent visual acuity necessary for detailed data and figure work, extended computer screen use, and intensive reading.
  • Work Environment: Comfortable working in artificial lighting conditions such as fluorescent lights.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in business or public administration, finance, law, economics, or related fields.
  • Related work experience may be substituted for formal education on a year-for-year basis.
  • Working knowledge of Higher Education, State and Federal rules and regulations in regard to Procurement and Contracting.
  • Knowledge of Jaggaer Contracts Plus (formerly SciQuest).
  • Experience using SAP or other ERP system.
  • Certified Texas Contract Developer (CTCD) certification; must be obtained within six months.

Job Description

The Contract Specialist performs advanced contract management and administrative work in support of the institution's mission within higher education and in compliance with State of Texas agency requirements. This role involves researching, drafting, coordinating, and tracking a broad range of contracts. The incumbent exercises substantial judgment and initiative to ensure all contracting activities comply with institutional policies and state regulations. The position requires a combination of legal, analytical, negotiation, and communication skills to guarantee that contracts meet the university's needs, adhere to all applicable laws and regulations, and protect the university's interests.

Job Duties

  1. Contract Drafting, Review, and Negotiation
  • Research, prepare, review, and negotiate a variety of contract documents and amendments.
  • Prepare, review, and negotiate contract terms, conditions, and pricing to ensure agreements are favorable and compliant with applicable requirements.
  • Review contracts and solicitations for inclusion of required clauses and overall legal sufficiency.
  • Collaborate internally with the Office of General Counsel, and other relevant departments to draft, review, and secure necessary approvals for contracts, ensuring that all agreements serve the best interests of the university.
  1. Compliance and Policy Adherence
  • Ensure contract compliance with university, state, and federal guidelines, including effective risk management practices and adherence to all relevant statutes and regulations.
  • Remain current on state and university procurement and fiscal rules, regulations, and best practices to ensure ongoing compliance and institutional integrity.
  1. Contract Lifecycle Management
  • Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of contract documents, approvals, amendments, and renewals; monitor critical dates to ensure timely processing of all contract actions.
  • Oversee and update the university's official contracts database or system of record to ensure data integrity, accessibility, and compliance with institutional requirements.
  • Ensure proper and timely closure of contracts upon expiration or termination.
  • Prepare, generate, and distribute contract reports on a regular basis (weekly, bi-weekly, quarterly, etc.) to support oversight and decision-making.
  • Assist in monitoring contractor performance to ensure all contractual obligations and standards are met, and support the resolution of contract disputes by providing guidance and assistance to university departments.
  1. Stakeholder Engagement and Coordination
  • Manage the contracts inbox by reviewing all correspondence and ensuring prompt, professional responses.
  • Provide professional, accurate, and concise communication, both verbally and in writing, to all stakeholders.
  • Serve as a primary point of contact for internal and external stakeholders throughout the contract lifecycle, responding to inquiries, interpreting contract requirements, and resolving issues.
  • Coordinate efforts with various university departments to ensure fulfillment of all contract requirements and deliverables.
  • Advise university departments of contractual rights, responsibilities, and required actions.
  1. Continuous Improvement and Support Activities
  • Training and educating university staff on contract policies and procedures.
  • Participating in policy development or continuous improvement initiatives related to contracting.
  • Supporting audits related to contracts and procurement.
  1. Other
  • Work overtime, including evenings and weekends, as necessary to meet project or business needs.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Additional Information to Applicants

This is an in-person position, and all assigned duties must be performed on-site at the San Marcos campus.

Job Open Date 06/01/2026 Job Close Date (posting closes at midnight) 06/22/2026 Open Until Filled No Normal Work Days Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday Normal Work Hours Start 8:00AM Normal Work Hours End 5:00PM Posting Notices Legal and Required Notices

Texas State University is committed to a policy of non-discrimination and equal opportunity for all persons regardless of race, sex, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, age, marital status, disability, veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal or state law in employment, educational programs, and activities and admissions.

Employment with Texas State University is contingent upon the outcome of record checks and verifications including, but not limited to, criminal history, driving records, education records, employment verifications, reference checks, and employment eligibility verifications.

In accordance with federal law, all new employees must complete the Form I-9 and provide acceptable documentation verifying their identity and authorization to work in the United States. Texas State University participates in E-Verify, and employment is contingent upon the successful verification of work authorization. Employees are required to maintain valid work authorization to satisfy the conditions of Form I9 at all times during their employment and the university makes no implicit or explicit promises to financially support visa or permanent residency applications.

Why Choose Texas State University?

Join the Texas State Bobcat team and experience a career that offers more than just a job-it's a path to a brighter future. As a Texas State employee, you'll enjoy:

Exceptional Benefits: Comprehensive health insurance with 100% premium coverage for employees and 50% for dependents, starting on your first day.

Generous Time Off: Enjoy vacation, holidays, sick leave, and more to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Wellness and Balance: Access a FREE wellness program, plus mother and family-friendly resources to support your personal well-being.

Professional Growth: Explore a wide range of training, development courses, certifications, and educational support programs.

Welcoming Campus: Become part of a vibrant Bobcat community with numerous social and professional networks.

Tuition Benefits: Take advantage of tuition support for yourself and for your dependent children, making higher education more accessible for your family.

Retirement Security: Secure your future with TRS pension, retirement plans, and voluntary savings options with strong employer contributions.

At Texas State University, you're not just an employee-you're a valued member of a thriving and beautiful campus community. Start your journey with us today. https://www.hr.txst.edu/benefits.html

Quick Link https://jobs.hr.txstate.edu/postings/56645

Applicant Document

Required Documents

  • Resume
  • Cover Letter

Optional Documents

  • DD 214/DD1300
  • Veteran's Preference
  • Licensure
  • Certifications

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

About the Company

T

Texas State University