Senior Policy Analyst

Texas Health and Human Services; Abilene (TX); Hybrid; USD 61,000 - 82,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

100% paid employee health insurance

Defined benefit pension plan

Generous time off

Career advancement opportunities

Job summary

Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) seeks a Senior Policy Analyst (Program Specialist VI) to advance eligibility policy for Texas Works Medicaid, CHIP, and HTW. The role conducts complex research, analyzes policy impacts, and coordinates development with AES stakeholders.

Strong communication and collaboration skills are essential. Based in Abilene with telework eligibility and a day shift, the position emphasizes policy analysis, leadership support, and cross-team mentorship

Qualifications

• Experience conducting policy analysis.
• Experience working with Texas Works Medicaid, CHIP, HTW programs or other social services policies.
• Experience synthesizing complex information and preparing clear policy documents.

Responsibilities

• Perform advanced research and interpret federal/state guidance for eligibility policy.
• Deliver analysis within deadlines and present findings clearly.
• Draft and edit policy documents and memoson eligible policies.
• Prepare briefings and materials to support leadership decisions.
• Coordinate policy development with internal and external partners.
• Provide guidance to team members and mentor staff.

Skills

Policy analysis

Research skills

Data interpretation

Policy development

Communication

Project coordination

Stakeholder collaboration

Mentorship

Education

Bachelor's degree in public policy or related field

Tools

Policy analysis tools

Job description

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.

Position Details

• Job Title: Senior Policy Analyst (Program Specialist VI)
• Agency: Health & Human Services Comm
• Department: PP Medicaid/CHIP
• Closing Date: 08/26/2026
• Salary Range: $5,098.66 - $6,800.00 (Monthly)
• Salary Group: TEXAS-B-23
• Shift: Day
• Telework: Eligible for Telework
• Travel: Up to 20%
• Regular/Temporary: Regular
• Full Time/Part Time: Full time
• FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Exempt
• Job Location: ABILENE, TX (4601 S 1ST ST)

Brief Job Description

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) seeks highly qualified and motivated candidates to fill a Senior Policy Analyst (Program Specialist VI) position within the Access and Eligibility Services. AES is driven by its mission to connect Texans to services and supports by helping individuals and families in need of food, medical care, cash assistance, and other social services. The Program Specialist VI performs highly advanced consultative work involving complex research, analysis, and policy development related to eligibility policy for Texas Works Medicaid, Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), and Healthy Texas Women (HTW) administered by HHSC and AES. The ideal candidate thrives in a collaborative environment, demonstrates strong analytical and communication skills, and excels in coordinating policy development efforts across diverse stakeholders.

Essential Job Functions

• Completes complex research assignments and interprets federal and state guidance using advanced analytical skills.
• Delivers accurate analysis within established timelines and presents findings clearly.
• Reviews and synthesizes data to support policy decision-making.
• Drafts, reviews, and edits policy documents including bulletins, memos, and handbook updates.
• Prepares briefings, memos, and materials that support leadership decisions.
• Supports policy implementation tasks to ensure successful rollout, accuracy, and consistency.
• Serves as a subject matter expert in meetings and workgroups.
• Provides timely and accurate clarification on escalated policy issues.
• Builds productive working relationships with internal and external partners.
• Coordinates project development and management activities, operationalizing project goals.
• Tracks policy issues, identifies challenges, and offers solutions.
• Manages multiple assignments simultaneously and reviews TAC rules, amendments, waivers, and IT updates.
• Provides guidance and mentorship to team members.
• Supports staff development by offering clear and patient technical assistance.
• Other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Knowledge of Texas Works Medicaid, CHIP, and HTW programs administered by HHSC.
• Knowledge of federal and state legislative and policy development processes.
• Skill in researching, interpreting, and analyzing complex policy data.
• Skill in preparing clear and concise policy documents.
• Skill in communication, problem-solving, and independent decision-making.
• Ability to organize work, manage multiple projects, and collaborate effectively.
• Ability to represent the department as a subject matter expert.

Registration, Licensure, or Certifications

N/A

Initial Selection Criteria

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with major coursework in public policy, social work, public health, or a related field preferred; relevant work experience may substitute for education on a year-for-year basis.
• Experience conducting policy analysis.
• Experience working with Texas Works Medicaid, CHIP, HTW programs or other social service programs and policy.
• Experience synthesizing complex information and preparing clear policy documents.

Preferred Selection Criteria

• Experience with legislative bill analysis and research.
• Experience with project management or working with projects.

Additional Information

Occasional travel within Texas is required.

Flexible telework options are available in accordance with HHSC policy.

Applicants selected for hire will be required to pass background and other due diligence checks.

The position may require occasional travel for meetings or training.

This position is posted state-wide and located in Austin. If the selected candidate does not reside within 50 miles of the assigned HHSC AES State Office Headquarters (JJ Winters Complex, 701 W 51st St, Austin, TX 78751), they may not be eligible for reimbursement to Austin Headquarters based on current travel policies.

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 to those 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 diligence checks.

HHSC uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work.

Telework Disclaimer

This position may be eligible for telework. Please note, all HHS positions are subject to state and agency telework policies in addition to the discretion of the direct supervisor and business needs.