Senior Program Specialist, Forensic & Jail Diversion

Texas Health and Human Services; Austin (TX); Hybrid; USD 65,000 - 106,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

100% paid employee health insurance

Defined benefit pension plan

Generous time off benefits

Career advancement opportunities

Telework eligible

Job summary

Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) seeks a Program Specialist VII to lead advanced consultative services for statewide diversion and justice-related programs. The role collaborates with Local Mental Health Authorities, criminal justice, and other stakeholders to ensure access to care for people with serious mental illness.

The PSVII serves as a team lead, drafts policy interpretations, and develops statewide guidelines.

Qualifications

• Degree required: Bachelor's in a related field; Master's preferred.
• Experience with forensic/jail diversion systems is preferred.
• Experience with large data sets or large systems change initiatives is preferred.
• Experience in public mental health services administration is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Plan, prioritize, and perform technical, training, research, and program assessment activities to improve access to care for justice-involved individuals.
• Lead or participate in policy development, rules, contracts, and education for internal and external stakeholders.
• Develop implementation plans and lead cross-functional workgroups; provide training and technical assistance.
• Oversee programs/pilots; assist with contracting, grants, and financial analyses.
• Complete other duties as assigned by leadership.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Writing skills

Public speaking

Data analysis

Policy interpretation

Education

Bachelor's degree in public health, psychology/sociology, social work, public affairs, or related field

Master's degree preferred

Job description

Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) seeks a Program Specialist VII to lead advanced consultative services for statewide diversion and justice-related programs. The role collaborates with Local Mental Health Authorities, criminal justice, and other stakeholders to ensure access to care for people with serious mental illness.

The PSVII serves as a team lead, drafts policy interpretations, and develops statewide guidelines.