Autism Waiver Consultant

The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) is requesting quotations for consulting services to support implementation of Maryland's Autism Waiver program, specifically provider application, approval, onboarding, and compliance monitoring, with bids due January 12, 2026 at 2:00 PM EST through eMaryland Marketplace Advantage (eMMA).

Mandatory qualifications are a master's degree or higher in education or human services; demonstrated knowledge of HCBS Waivers and COMAR 10.09.56; at least one year of experience conducting training and technical assistance on ASD and Medicaid/HCBS programs; at least one year of compliance monitoring experience; and proficiency with Smartsheets, Microsoft Excel, Word, and Google G Suite. Small, minority, and veteran-owned businesses are encouraged to respond, and vendor registration with Maryland's Business Express system is required prior to award.

The consultant will monitor provider communications, conduct quarterly statewide prospective provider workshops, review provider applications and supporting documentation, coordinate structured interviews and site visits, track data and performance metrics, facilitate provider onboarding to the AW program and LTSSMaryland transition, and assist the Provider Interagency Medicaid Monitoring Team with compliance monitoring. Work is performed at MSDE's Nancy S. Grasmick Building in Baltimore, Maryland, under a hybrid schedule.

The contract term runs February 1, 2026 through January 31, 2027, with a maximum cost of $49,500 for the one-year period. Billing is submitted monthly on the contractor's letterhead with a required consultant log. Award will be made to the responsive and responsible bidder with the most favorable price after meeting mandatory requirements; if bids are identical, the bidder with the most experience wins. The State reserves the right to award contracts to multiple consultants. Questions are due January 5, 2026 at 2:00 PM EST.