CISO — Public Sector Cybersecurity Leader

Health & Human Services Comm; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 126,000 - 213,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

100% health insurance

Defined benefit pension

Generous paid time off

Career advancement opportunities

Job summary

Health & Human Services Commission (HHSC) in Texas is seeking a Chief Information Security Officer to lead cybersecurity across one of the largest public-sector technology environments. The CISO will translate risk into business decisions, oversee governance, risk, and compliance, and guide modernization and third‑party security programs.

The role requires executive leadership, strategic vision, and the ability to work with state and federal partners.

Qualifications

• Graduation from an accredited four-year college with major coursework in cybersecurity, computer science, information technology, MIS, engineering, public administration or related field.
• At least 10 years of progressively responsible cybersecurity, information security, or technology leadership experience.
• Experience with cybersecurity frameworks, regulatory compliance, and risk management in public-sector environments.
• Experience leading large, complex cybersecurity programs and teams.
• Experience in Health and Human Services or public sector is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead enterprise cybersecurity, risk management, and resilience activities to protect systems and ensure continuity.
• Communicate security priorities and risks to executives and stakeholders; align security with agency goals.
• Develop policies, procedures, and guidelines governing CISO operations and information security.
• Coach and develop staff; build a high‑performing cybersecurity team.
• Balance security with operational needs and modernization while managing third‑party risk.

Skills

Cybersecurity strategy

Governance & risk

Incident response

Security operations

Regulatory compliance

Executive communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in CS/IT or related field

Job description

Health & Human Services Commission (HHSC) in Texas is seeking a Chief Information Security Officer to lead cybersecurity across one of the largest public-sector technology environments. The CISO will translate risk into business decisions, oversee governance, risk, and compliance, and guide modernization and third‑party security programs.

The role requires executive leadership, strategic vision, and the ability to work with state and federal partners.