Program Specialist VI

Texas Health and Human Services; Austin (TX); Hybrid; USD 56,901 - 92,681; Full time

Job summary

Texas Health and Human Services is seeking a Program Specialist VI to plan and implement major initiatives related to family resources and eligibility services. The role involves research, analysis, and evaluation of policies, as well as supporting program effectiveness initiatives.

The ideal candidate will possess a Bachelor's degree, strong knowledge of health and human services programs, and excellent communication skills. The position is located in Austin, TX and may involve up to 25% travel.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Excellent written communication skills.
• Preferred experience with health and human services programs.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research and analysis of complex policy issues.
• Evaluate program effectiveness and provide recommendations.
• Assist in continuous program improvement efforts.

Skills

Knowledge of health and human service programs

Skill in synthesizing complex information

Project management processes

Proficiency with Microsoft Office

Excellent written communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution

Job description

Job Overview

Position: Program Specialist VI (Office of the Chief of Family Resources and Eligibility Services)

Date Posted: July 1, 2026 – Closing Date: September 29, 2026

Location: 701 W 51st St., Austin, TX (Day shift; up to 25% travel; telework eligible)

Salary: $5,098.66 – $8,304.83 monthly (Texas-B-23)

Responsibilities

The Program Specialist VI assists in planning, developing, and implementing major initiatives for process improvement, organizational improvement, strategic and operational planning, and quality improvement. Key duties include:

• Conducting research, analysis, and evaluation of complex policy issues and initiatives.
• Coordinating collection, organization, analysis, and preparation of materials for program information and reports.
• Evaluating program effectiveness, resolving issues, and providing recommendations for executive leadership.
• Leading or supporting implementation of program initiatives for Access and Eligibility Services (AES) client services.
• Representing the Chief’s office in meetings or workgroups and preparing written project updates, briefings, reports, and plans.
• Working under limited supervision with independent judgment.

Essential Job Functions

• Serve as a subject‑matter expert on policies and processes, facilitating coordination between FRES and HHS programs.
• Coordinate and review the distribution of reports, memorandums, and written responses to information requests.
• Assist in continuous program and process improvement efforts, including project planning, work planning, and status reporting.
• Compile and reconcile work for executive-level responses, producing high‑quality briefing documents and memoranda.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of health and human service programs and AES programs.
• Knowledge of state or federal statutes, rules, regulations, and guidance relevant to AES program areas.
• Knowledge of state or federal legislative processes.
• Knowledge of project management processes and techniques.
• Skill in synthesizing complex information into concise materials for diverse audiences.
• Skill in developing and evaluating policies, procedures, and making recommendations.
• Skill in problem solving and independent decision-making.
• Skill in oral, written, and public presentation communication.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Teams, SharePoint, Visio) and Adobe Acrobat.
• Ability to work with deadlines, sensitive information, and during high‑pressure situations.
• Ability to independently prioritize time and manage multiple project deadlines.
• Ability to negotiate among multiple parties and maintain effective working relationships.
• Ability to gather, assemble, correlate, and analyze facts.
• Ability to prepare and write concise reports.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution (or equivalent combination of education and experience).
• Excellent written communication skills, as demonstrated on the official application.
• Experience collaborating to resolve problems and reviewing the work of others with constructive feedback.
• Preferred experience working with health and human services programs, preparing administrative reports or specialized projects, and interacting with executive-level management.

Additional Requirements

Applicants must not have a history of substantiated fraudulent activity against HHSC or its programs. Applicants with a non‑fraud overpayment and an outstanding balance must agree to repay the overpayment as a condition of employment.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission is an equal opportunity employer that encourages applications from women, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment.