Federal and State Policy Specialist (AUSTIN, TX)

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: Federal and State Policy Specialist 
Job Title: Program Specialist VI 
Agency: Health & Human Services Comm 
Department: FSS Cont, Fin & Admn Supp 89th 
Posting Number: 17419 
Closing Date: 06/12/2026 
Posting Audience: Internal and External 
Occupational Category: Community and Social Services 
Salary Range: $5,098.66 - $8,304.83 
Pay Frequency: Monthly
Salary Group: TEXAS-B-23 
Shift: Day 
Additional Shift: Days (First) 
Telework: Eligible for Telework 
Travel: Up to 10% 
Regular/Temporary: Regular 
Full Time/Part Time: Full time 
FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Exempt 
Facility Location:  
Job Location City: AUSTIN 
Job Location Address: 701 W 51ST ST 
Other Locations: Austin 
MOS Codes: 16GX,60C0,611X,612X,63G0,641X,712X,86M0,8U000,OS,OSS,PERS,YN,YNS 
 
 
 

Job Description:

Performs highly advanced consultative services, technical assistance, and program management work for Family Support Services (FSS), reporting to the Director of Policy and Prevention Strategies.

Responsible for the successful management and execution of a wide range of complex, sensitive, and high‑profile initiatives.

Responsible for developing comprehensive grant proposals for large scale competitive and federal formula grants. Establishes grant goals and objectives and leads grant application development and submission. Provides leadership and project management support to cross departmental and interagency project teams responsible for the full lifecycle of program implementation and evaluation in accordance with grant requirements.

Leads special projects; conducts highly advanced research; and provides expert program, policy, and legislative analysis.

Researches and identifies federal funding opportunities aligned with agency priorities.

Tracks federal budget process, federal regulations, administration priorities, and impact to existing federal grants and requirements.

Develops executive communications, ad hoc reports, presentations, and regular updates on major initiatives, projects, and grants. Oversees coordination and collaboration on complex reports and materials requiring executive‑level review.

May represent the Associate Commissioner or division leadership on agency‑wide and HHS enterprise initiatives.

Works under minimal supervision with extensive latitude for independent judgment and initiative. May plan, assign, and/or lead the work of others and serve in a lead capacity. Represents division leadership on internal and external workgroups and agency or interagency initiatives as assigned.

Essential Job Functions (EJFs):

EJF 1.
Plans, coordinates, and oversees complex program initiatives, special projects, grants, and pilots across FSS. Provides high‑level consultation and technical assistance to program units, agency partners, and stakeholders. Develops grant proposal narratives, workplans, timelines, and supporting documents. Helps to develop project budgets in coordination with program and budget staff. Supports project planning; establishes timelines; maintains grant calendar and tracks reporting and other deadlines; monitors progress; and identifies barriers and improvements to successful grant implementation.

EJF 2.
Leads internal federal policy and grants oversight for FSS, including coordination across teams (fiscal administration, program, contract oversight, data collection, continuous quality improvement, and evaluation) Serves as a primary point of contact for policy stakeholders, advocacy groups, and partner agencies on assigned federal legislative and policy matters. Maintains accurate documentation for site visits and monitoring.

EJF 3.
Represents FSS in meetings with federal and state agencies, providers, associations, federal technical assistance providers, and community partners. Builds and maintains effective partnerships to advance prevention strategies and program objectives.

EJF 4.
Oversees and conducts advanced research, policy analysis, and program evaluations. Reviews statutes, rules, policies, and procedures to ensure compliance and support implementation. Communicates and provides project support for data collection and evaluation teams to support decision‑making, reporting, and continuous program improvement.

EJF 5. (20%)
Develops and delivers executive briefings, legislative reports, presentations, white papers, and strategic planning documents. Prepares clear, concise summaries and recommendations related to program performance, funding, policy changes, and legislative activity.

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:

None

Knowledge Skills Abilities (KSAs):

Knowledge of federal legislative processes, public administration, and program management principles

Skill in grant or report writing in the public or nonprofit sector and ability to translate program work into clear and compelling narratives.

Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines

Strong communication and collaboration skills and ability to lead teams

Skill in advanced research, policy analysis, project management, and stakeholder coordination

Ability to analyze complex information, develop recommendations, prepare executive‑level communications, and lead cross‑functional efforts

Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and provide guidance to others 

Initial Screening Criteria: 

Graduation from an accredited four‑year college or university; experience and education may be substituted for one another. Experience in program management, policy analysis, legislative coordination, or a related field preferred.

Additional Information: 

The selected candidate for this position will be required to work in our Austin office. This position offers a hybrid schedule of remote (telework) and in-office work and staff may have the opportunity to telework as HHSC telework policy allows. 

Review our Tips for Success when applying for jobs at DFPS, DSHS and HHSC.

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. Download the I-9 Form

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.