Program Specialist IV

Texas Department of State Health Services; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 47,576 - 55,800; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Insurance coverage

Employee retirement system benefits

Job summary

A state health agency in Austin is looking for a Program Specialist IV to lead efforts in improving vital records registration. The candidate will monitor compliance among vital statistics providers, lead training programs, and manage projects aimed at enhancing service delivery. Candidates should have specialized knowledge of vital statistics and strong skills in project management, communication, and analysis. This full-time role requires on-site attendance, with initial applications reviewed based on experience and qualifications.

Qualifications

• Extensive specialized knowledge of vital statistics statutes and related public health initiatives.
• Experience in monitoring compliance and providing consultative assistance to stakeholders.
• Ability to analyze legislation and develop recommendations.

Responsibilities

• Oversee compliance of vital statistics providers with laws and agreements.
• Lead trainings and workshops to communicate program services and updates.
• Manage projects to improve service delivery and address legislative impacts.

Skills

Knowledge of vital statistics program policies

Public speaking

Project management

Statistical analysis

Effective communication

Tools

Microsoft Office

Vital registration software

Job description

Date: Mar 20, 2026

Location: AUSTIN, TX

Employee Benefits

DSHS offers insurance coverage and other benefits available through the State of Texas Group Benefits Plan administered by the Employee Retirement System of Texas (ERS). To learn more about the benefits available to you as a DSHS employee and other DSHS opportunities for early career pathways, visit the DSHS Careers Page.
Review our Top 10 Tips for Success when Applying to State of Texas Jobs.

Job Information

Functional Title: Program Specialist IV
Job Title: Program Specialist IV
Agency: Department of State Health Services
Department: VS Reporting & Registration Branch
Posting Number: 15166
Closing Date: 09/18/2026
Posting Audience: Internal and External
Occupational Category: Education Training and Library
Salary Range: $4,263.16 - $5,000.00
Pay Frequency: Monthly
Salary Group: TEXAS-B-20
Shift: Day
Additional Shift: Days (First)
Telework: Not Eligible for Telework
Travel: Up to 5%
Employment Type: Regular, Full time, Nonexempt
Facility Location: AUSTIN
Job Location Address: 1100 W 49TH ST (DHR)

Brief Job Description

Under the direction of the Field Services Manager, the Program Specialist IV is responsible for leading statewide efforts to improve vital records registration in Texas. The role requires extensive specialized knowledge of vital statistics statutes, rules, security policies, program software, and public health initiatives related to the collection of demographic and statistical data on vital records. Key responsibilities include monitoring and oversight of vital statistics providers (local registrars, birth facilities) for compliance with laws and service level agreements; conducting surveys and reviews to ensure standardization and data quality; serving as the key contact for the state Vital Statistics Section; and providing advanced consultative and technical assistance to stakeholders (e.g., physicians, attorneys, county clerks, funeral home directors, midwives, hospitals, and the general public). The position also involves analyzing legislation, developing recommendations, and generating reports in Excel for tracking vital statistics information.

Essential Job Functions (EJFs)

• 40% Perform advanced monitoring and oversight of vital statistics providers for compliance; conduct surveys and reviews; act as the key contact for the state's Vital Statistics Section.
• 35% Lead high‑level trainings, workshops, and conferences statewide; present program services; communicate legislative and policy changes; oversee website information, newsletters, and official correspondence; develop training curricula; and coordinate stakeholder outreach.
• 20% Manage development and coordination of special projects and work plans to improve service delivery; apply project management principles, continuous improvement methodologies, and performance measures; analyze legislation and fiscal impacts; and promote vital statistics initiatives.
• 5% Perform other duties as assigned, including participation in disaster response, Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation, or additional tasks which may require extra hours or alternate shift patterns.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)

• Knowledge of vital statistics program policies, regulations, and rules; public health perspective on vital records registration.
• Skill in monitoring provider compliance; public speaking and large‑group presentations; analysis of complex program and policy issues; implementation of continuous improvement methodologies; project management; use of performance measures, surveys, and statistical analysis; effective oral and written communication; use of computer systems including vital registration software and Microsoft Office; website programming and design; and relationship building under pressure.
• Ability to identify problems, develop solutions; interpret statutes and guidelines; analyze legislation and fiscal impacts; develop work plans and meet strict deadlines; lead work groups, projects, and meetings.

Additional Information

This position requires on‑site presence; daily attendance is key for business continuity.

To be considered for an interview, applicants must demonstrate a clear match to all initial criteria in the application.

Military, Veterans, and ADA Accommodations

All active‑duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified for this position. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), DSHS will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring process for individuals with a qualifying disability.

Salary Information, Pre‑Employment Checks, and Work Eligibility

• The salary offered will follow DSHS starting salary guidelines. Any employment offer is contingent upon available budgeted funds.
• Applicants may be required to pass background and other due diligence checks depending on the program area and position requirements.
• DSHS uses E‑Verify. Applicants must bring I‑9 documentation on the first day of work. Download the I-9 form.

Nearest Major Market: Austin