Job description: The Acquisition Support Specialist will play a critical role in supporting all phases of the acquisition lifecycle. Working within the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Health Benefits, this role focuses on procurement and contract management for Medicaid Enterprise Systems (MES) projects. This role requires close collaboration with leadership, business leads, project managers, and other team members within the Contract Management and Procurement unit. The Specialist will contribute to the planning and execution of current and future MES module initiatives, providing technology-specific contracting subject matter expertise throughout all phases of acquisition management, from solicitation development to post-award monitoring activities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Contract Development:
  • Draft solicitation documents, contract amendments, and other procurement-related deliverables.
  • Lead the evaluation and award process for competitive solicitations, ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations.
• Market Research & Analysis:
  • Conduct market research and project cost analysis to inform procurement strategies.
  • Evaluate vendor capabilities and market trends to support technology-specific acquisition strategies.
• Stakeholder Engagement:
  • Collaborate with business leads, project managers, and leadership to manage MES technology contracts.
  • Actively engage stakeholders to ensure alignment between contract activities and Division objectives.
  • Collaborate with the requisite Program Office to assist with the Development of the Acquisition Planning Documents (APDs).
• Project Oversight:
  • Contribute to the planning and execution of MES module initiatives, offering subject matter expertise in technology contracting.
  • Support post-award contract administration, ensuring deliverables and timelines are met.
• Strategic Contributions:
  • Assist in assessing the Division's technology needs and developing strategic plans to address both short- and long-term objectives.
  • Align procurement efforts with Medicaid program goals and technology advancements.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge:
  • Comprehensive understanding of public procurement processes and regulations.
  • Familiarity with Medicaid Enterprise Systems (MES) and technology-related contracting.
  • Expertise in solicitation development, contract management, and vendor evaluation.
• Skills:
  • Strong analytical skills for conducting market research and cost analysis.
  • Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
  • Proven project management and organizational skills to handle multiple priorities effectively.
• Abilities:
  • Work collaboratively with diverse teams, including leadership and technical staff.
  • Provide subject matter expertise throughout all phases of contract oversight.
  • Adapt to evolving program needs and align procurement activities with strategic goals.
• Professional Certifications:
  • NCCM - North Carolina Contract Manager
  • CPCM - Certified Professional Contracts Manager

Additional Information:
This position offers the opportunity to contribute significantly to the success of the Division of Health Benefits by ensuring the effective alignment of technology contracts with Medicaid program goals. The Acquisition Support Specialist will serve as a key resource in supporting the Division's mission to deliver high-quality, cost-effective healthcare solutions through innovative technology procurement.