Research Specialist IV

Health & Human Services Comm; Austin (TX); Hybrid; USD 54,000 - 87,000; Full time

Job summary

Health & Human Services Commission (HHSC) in Austin, TX seeks a Research Specialist IV to lead Work Measurement and RMS studies, manage timekeeping systems, and oversee data collection and SSCAC processes.

The role involves advanced analytical work, training participants, and coordinating quarterly and monthly reports, with eligibility for telework and a strong benefits package.

Qualifications

• Experience in data analysis processes, reporting or evaluation.
• Experience in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint, Power Automate.
• Experience in coordinating and monitoring projects; collecting and evaluating data.
• Experience in training agency staff on data collection and processes.

Responsibilities

• Attends work regularly and performs assigned duties.
• Coordinates, plans, and monitors Work Measurement and RMS studies and related cost allocation.
• Trains participants; provides technical assistance and resolves inquiries.
• Updates study instruments, timekeeping sheets, and SSCAC files.
• Collects and analyzes data using Excel Power Queries; conducts QA reviews of data.

Skills

Data analysis

Communication

Project coordination

Training staff

Report writing

Tools

Excel

PowerPoint

SharePoint

Power Automate

Job description

Career Opportunities: Research Specialist IV (20430)

Posting ID20430-Posted08/28/2026-Health & Human Services Comm-RMS & WMS Team-Business and Financial Operations-Eligible for Telework-b. $3000 - $4999 per month

Join the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and be part of a team committed to creating a positive impact in the lives of fellow Texans. At HHSC, your contributions matter, and we support you at each stage of your life and work journey. Our comprehensive benefits package includes 100% paid employee health insurance for full-time eligible employees, a defined benefit pension plan, generous time off benefits, numerous opportunities for career advancement and more. Explore more details on the Benefits of Working at HHS webpage.

• Functional Title:Research Specialist IV
• Job Title:Research Specialist IV
• Agency:Health & Human Services Comm
• Department:RMS & WMS Team
• Posting Number:20430
• Closing Date:10/27/2026
• Posting Audience:Internal and External
• Occupational Category:Business and Financial Operations
• Salary Range:$4,801.16-$7,761.50
• Pay Frequency: Monthly
• Salary Group:TEXAS-B-22
• Shift:Day
• Additional Shift:None
• Telework:Eligible for Telework
• Travel:Up to 5%
• Regular/Temporary:Regular
• Full Time/Part Time:Full time
• FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt:Nonexempt
• Facility Location:
• Job Location City:AUSTIN
• Job Location Address:4601 W GUADALUPE ST
• Other Locations:None
• MOS Codes: 0231,0531,4505,4591,8051,8825,8850,15AX,35F,38A,49A,683X,783X,CYB14,IS,ISS,OSS

Brief Job Description:

Serves as senior analyst/specialist for activities associated with Work Measurement (WM), Random Moment Sampling (RMS) studies, Timekeeping and Sole Source Cost Allocation Certification (SSCAC) systems for the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC). Performs advanced consultative services and technical assistance work which may include but is not limited to planning/coordinating, monitoring study methodologies, validating data, training participants, data analysis and preparing major agency federal and state reports. Troubleshoots technical issues related to system applications and portal system used for the studies and other data collection systems. Acts as the main point of contact for any related WM, RMS, timekeeping & SSCAC issues. Monitors and oversees the work of study/timekeeping participants. Consults with program, budget and accounting staff in the planning, implementation, and monitoring of studies/timekeeping. Documents work through flow charts and narrative. Works under limited supervision with considerable latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

Essential Job Functions (EJFs):

• Attends work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.
• Coordinates, plans, and monitors Work Measurement (WM) and Random Moment (RMS) studies and shared mailboxes for HHSC programs. Maintains and monitors cost allocation systems for HHSC programs. (30%)
• Communicates with others (internally or externally) to provide training, technical assistance, request/verify information, answer inquiries, address issues, resolve problems or complaints for study/timekeeping participants. (30%)
• Updates study instruments, timekeeping sheets, monthly SSCAC monthly files and training materials. (10%)
• Collects and compiles data utilizing Excel Power Queries to analyze data for studies and other data collection systems. Also conducts quality assurance reviews on study, timekeeping & SSCAC data following unit procedures. (10%)
• Coordinates and prepares the quarterly & semi-annual RMS reports, WM study reports and monthly timekeeping/SSCA results. (5%)
• Participates in planning and program review or analysis to ensure that methods, procedures, or materials comply with state and federal requirements and support the programs served. (5%)
• Communicates study, timekeeping & SSCAC results to relevant HHSC program areas, accounting, and budget staff within the specified deadlines. (5%)
• Serves as the subject matter expert at meetings, planning sessions and workgroups to address business processes, issues, regulations, and audits. (5%)

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs):

• Knowledge of data analysis processes, reporting or evaluation.
• Knowledge of state and federal rules and regulations and policies.
• Skill in use of Microsoft Office Suite, specifically Excel, Power Point, Share Point, and Power Automate.
• Skill in coordinating and monitoring projects and the work of others.
• Skill in training agency staff in individual or small group settings as related to data collection.
• Ability to prepare concise reports.

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:

None

Initial Screening Criteria:

• Experience in data analysis processes, reporting or evaluation.
• Experience in use of Microsoft Office Suite, specifically Excel, Power Point or other (i.e. Share Point, Power Automate, Forms).
• Experience in monitoring and coordinating projects; collecting and evaluating data.
• Experience in communicating effectively; conducting trainings.

Active Duty, Military, Reservists, Guardsmen, and Veterans :

Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited tothose listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information please see the Texas State Auditor’s Job Descriptions, Military Crosswalk and Military Crosswalk Guide at Texas State Auditor's Office - Job Descriptions .

ADA Accommodations:

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHSC and DSHS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.

Pre-Employment Checks and Work Eligibility:

Depending on the program area and position requirements, applicants selected for hire may be required to pass background and other due