POSITION SUMMARY

The Contract Specialist supports the Manager, Provider Supports as a point of contact for providers, families and early learning community members of his/her assigned region. Responsible for ensuring provider contracts are executed according to Division of Early Learning (DEL) requirements and monitors providers for contract adherence. Also responsible for updating Child Care Resources & Referrals profiles (CCR&R) and assisting providers using the DEL monitoring tool. This position is an important liaison between ELCHC and the childcare provider community focused on building and developing relationships.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Manage provider contract process from application to execution
• Coordinate contractual requirements for Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) and School Readiness (SR) providers
• Review and approve provider profiles in CCR&R database and provide technical assistance to providers
• Ensure compliance with CCR&R program obligations
• Assist with SR Tier 1 monitoring
• Perform other duties that may be necessary to maintain the success of the organization, as determined by leadership
• Provide accurate and prompt communications with the childcare provider community
• Process provider changes throughout the year, such as director/ownership changes, DBA/name changes, locations, contact information, classroom changes, amendments, closures, and other contract updates.
• Initiate/review annual SR contracts and verify applicable eligibility requirements before sending the contract forward for certification/execution. This can include licensing status, orientation, required documents, health and safety requirements, and other DEL contract requirements.
• Identify missing, expired, or inaccurate documentation that could affect a provider's ability to remain contracted and obtain corrections from the provider.
• Maintain accurate records of provider communications, outstanding requirements, approvals, contract status, and issues that could affect eligibility or reimbursement.
• Serve as a primary contact for providers who need help understanding contracting requirements, correcting applications, updating profiles, or navigating the DEL Portal.
• Explain SR/VPK contracting requirements, assist providers with DEL Provider Portal access, profiles, applications, required documentation, and next steps.
• Minimum of 10 hours of professional development

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

None.

QUALIFICATIONS

• High School diploma or equivalent; Associate degree from an accredited institution in early childhood education, social services or other closely related field preferred
• Ability to exemplify our Core Values of Integrity, Equity, Accountability, Collaboration, Innovation, Transparency, Consistency and Benevolence
• Minimum 2 years of experience in executing contracts, Tier 1 monitoring preferred
• Proven ability to connect with a diverse population
• Knowledge of Best-In-Class Customer Service techniques
• Familiarity with Classroom Assessment Scoring System (CLASS) preferred
• Familiarity with School Readiness Health and Safety Standards preferred
• This position requires successful completion of the level 2 background screening standards as set forth in s. 435.04, F.S.
• Valid Florida Driver’s License and the ability to drive a passenger vehicle
• Bi-lingual English/Spanish preferred
• Advanced organizational, analytical, project management, interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to provide consultation and technical assistance in a friendly, professional manner
• Intermediate skills with Microsoft Office Products
• Child Care Resource and Referral certification within the first 90 days of employment

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY/WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Work Environment: This is a hybrid position that requires work both in the office and remotely. The position requires regular interaction with staff, providers, community partners, and the public through in-person, telephone, email, and virtual communication. The position requires regular travel throughout Hillsborough County, including travel to childcare provider locations, ELCHC offices, community sites, meetings, training, provider listening sessions, hearings, and other events. The employee must be able to attend designated provider engagement activities and meetings in person when required. Work activities include extended periods of computer use and sitting, as well as regular travel and movement throughout the county.
• Physical Activity: Work activities include extended periods of computer use and sitting, as well as regular travel for provider visits, meetings, training, and community events. The employee may occasionally be required to lift or move materials weighing up to 25 pounds and, when necessary, up to 50 pounds.