What are the responsibilities and job description for the Quality improvements and Processes optimization position at Texas Department of State Health Services?
Date: Jan 29, 2025
Location:
AUSTIN, TX
DSHS is committed to hiring skilled and dedicated individuals who share a passion for public health to pursue our vision of A Healthy Texas. If you are looking to make an impact and tackle new challenges, we encourage you to consider a career with us.
Employee Benefits
DSHS offers insurance coverage and other benefits available through the State of Texas Group Benefits Plan administered by the Employee Retirement System of Texas (ERS). To learn more about all the benefits available to you as a DSHS employee and other DSHS opportunities for early career pathways, visit the DSHS Careers Page.
Review our Top 10 Tips for Success when Applying to State of Texas Jobs.
Functional Title: Quality improvements and Processes optimization
Job Title: Manager IV
Agency: Dept of State Health Services
Department: Clinical Chem/Oth Med Scrning
Posting Number: 2793
Closing Date: 07/30/2025
Posting Audience: Internal and External
Occupational Category: Management
Salary Group: TEXAS-B-25
Salary Range: $7,475.00 - $9,055.50
Shift: Day
Additional Shift: Days (First)
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: 1100 W 49TH ST (DBGL)
Other Locations:
MOS Codes
0203,0207,0302,0370,0520,0602,0802,1802,1803,2340,5502,6302,6502,7202,7208,7210,7220,7502,8005,8858
9702,16GX,3D0X1,60C0,611X,612X,63G0,641X,712X,86M0,86P0,8U000,9G100,BOSN,ELC,ISS,MAT,MED,MLES,MSSD
MSSE,MSSR,OSS,WEPS
Under the direction of the Medical Screening Unit Director, performs highly complex (senior-level) managerial work administering the daily operations and activities of the Branch. Provides advanced managerial support and oversight for projects and activities related to quality improvement, workflow coordination and optimization, specimen handling, data compilation and review, grant coordination, and customer training and education for Newborn Screening and Clinical Chemistry testing. Supervises Branch personnel through monitoring, coaching, and evaluating. Advises on Continuity of Operations (COOP) planning and quality improvement initiatives. Responsible for assessing program effectiveness within the Unit and developing short-term and long-term goals and objectives for the Branch. Develops priorities, schedules, and standards for achieving goals. Oversees customer support and response to internal and external inquiries and assignments. Ensures collaboration with other laboratory units, DSHS program areas, and stakeholders. Acts for the Unit Director when needed. Works under limited supervision with moderate latitude for initiative and independent judgment.
Essential Job Functions
Attends work on a regular and predictable schedule by agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.
EJF 1. Administration of daily operations and activities. Provides advanced managerial support and oversight for projects and activities related to quality improvement, workflow coordination, implementation of new laboratory tests, unit research projects, specimen handling, data compilation and review, grant coordination, and customer training and education for Newborn Screening and Clinical Chemistry testing. Provides project management support to ensure program activities are carried out in a timely, productive, coordinated, and organized manner and in compliance with all state and federal regulations and guidelines. Identifies areas of noncompliance, deficiencies, and quality issues with agency programs and determines solutions. Facilitates programmatic responsibilities for COOP planning, public information, residual specimen, and data requests, laboratory information management system, and other health informatics improvement projects. (35%)
EJF 2. Performs and directs personnel management in the Branch. Performs and supervises personnel activities and training through monitoring, coaching and evaluation of staff. Directs work assignments and all personnel functions delegated to the Branch to meet work requirements. Ensures that the performance evaluation process is conducted according to Human Resources guidelines. Maintains frequent and effective communication to update employees on laboratory progress and current issues. Responds to employee concerns about policy, work scheduling, and safety in their work environment. Monitors and ensures personnel comply with Department, Section, Unit, and Branch policies. Develops and implements a coaching and team-building strategy to enhance performance and morale. (25%)
EJF 3. Evaluates programs, develops goals, and oversees implementation. Develops and implements techniques for evaluating business functions within the Medical Screening Unit including coordination of unit contracts. Reports outcome measures of Branch programs and projects to the Unit Director and as requested to department management and committees. Identifies areas of needed change and makes recommendations to improve operations. Interacts with other programs to review guidelines and assess quality improvement, workflow coordination, specimen handling, and education and training needs. Develops Branch’s short-term and long-term goals and objectives and conducts strategic planning activities to develop priorities, schedules, and standards to achieve goals. Evaluate the need for the development of new policies and procedures or revision of current policies and procedures. Monitors compliance with agency, division, section, and branch policies and procedures. (20%)
EJF 4. Performs and provides guidance and assistance to customer services activities. Provides technical expertise and direction regarding inquiries and assignments related to the Branch function. Represents the Branch, prepares reports, and presents data. Fosters teamwork and communication inside and outside the branch. Coordinates and communicates with management and staff at all levels in the Laboratory and with other DSHS Units, Branches and Groups. Consults with customers to determine their needs and resolve concerns. Supplies educational materials, information, and training, and conducts tours of the Laboratory. Develops and maintains effective working relationships with internal/external partners and stakeholders. Trains Branch staff to be customer-oriented through their words and deeds. Investigates complaints and documents problems and the follow-up actions taken. (15%)
EJF 5. Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency’s obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location. Assures that contingency plans for testing are adequate. Based on your work area, consistently comply with DSHS Laboratory, local, state, and federal guidelines to ensure a safe functioning laboratory. (5%)
Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications: NA
Knowledge Skills Abilities: Knowledge of principles and practices of public health/laboratory testing.
Knowledge of principles and practices of public administration and management
Knowledge of principles of clinical laboratory testing, development of robust testing algorithms, current biochemical and molecular testing platforms, and interpretation of complicated clinical laboratory test results.
Knowledge of local, state, and federal laws and regulations relevant to the Medical Screening Unit and the Laboratory Services Section.
Knowledge of strategic planning, human resource management, project management and conflict resolution.
Skill and thorough knowledge of budget, finance, grant and contract management.
Skill in managing information systems for decision-making.
Skill in summarizing data in written, tabular, and graphic form.
Skill and thorough knowledge of mass communications; including media, education, and training.
Skill in using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems, and the use of a computer and applicable software.
Ability to manage business functions to plan, supervise and execute activities related to the responsibilities of the Medical Screening Quality Improvement and Testing Support Branch.
Ability to write and edit materials for medical, public health, lay, and other audiences.
Ability to prepare high-quality, effective reports.
Initial Screening Criteria
Public health or laboratory supervisor/manager experience preferred.
Quality Control Or Process Improvement Experience Preferred.
Bachelors, Master, or PhD in scientific field, preferred.
Project Management/coordination Experience, Preferred.
Grant writing and grant management experience, preferred.
Experience Interpreting And Applying Federal And State Laws, Preferred.
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 for this position. For more information see the Texas State Auditor’s Military Crosswalk at https://hr.sao.texas.gov/CompensationSystem/JobDescriptions/.
ADA Accommodations
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), DSHS will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring process for individuals with a qualifying disability. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the interview process, please notify the person who contacts you to schedule the interview. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747 or via email at HHSServiceCenter.Applications@ngahrhosting.com.
Salary Information, Pre-employment Checks, And Work Eligibility
Location:
AUSTIN, TX
DSHS is committed to hiring skilled and dedicated individuals who share a passion for public health to pursue our vision of A Healthy Texas. If you are looking to make an impact and tackle new challenges, we encourage you to consider a career with us.
Employee Benefits
DSHS offers insurance coverage and other benefits available through the State of Texas Group Benefits Plan administered by the Employee Retirement System of Texas (ERS). To learn more about all the benefits available to you as a DSHS employee and other DSHS opportunities for early career pathways, visit the DSHS Careers Page.
Review our Top 10 Tips for Success when Applying to State of Texas Jobs.
Functional Title: Quality improvements and Processes optimization
Job Title: Manager IV
Agency: Dept of State Health Services
Department: Clinical Chem/Oth Med Scrning
Posting Number: 2793
Closing Date: 07/30/2025
Posting Audience: Internal and External
Occupational Category: Management
Salary Group: TEXAS-B-25
Salary Range: $7,475.00 - $9,055.50
Shift: Day
Additional Shift: Days (First)
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: 1100 W 49TH ST (DBGL)
Other Locations:
MOS Codes
0203,0207,0302,0370,0520,0602,0802,1802,1803,2340,5502,6302,6502,7202,7208,7210,7220,7502,8005,8858
9702,16GX,3D0X1,60C0,611X,612X,63G0,641X,712X,86M0,86P0,8U000,9G100,BOSN,ELC,ISS,MAT,MED,MLES,MSSD
MSSE,MSSR,OSS,WEPS
Under the direction of the Medical Screening Unit Director, performs highly complex (senior-level) managerial work administering the daily operations and activities of the Branch. Provides advanced managerial support and oversight for projects and activities related to quality improvement, workflow coordination and optimization, specimen handling, data compilation and review, grant coordination, and customer training and education for Newborn Screening and Clinical Chemistry testing. Supervises Branch personnel through monitoring, coaching, and evaluating. Advises on Continuity of Operations (COOP) planning and quality improvement initiatives. Responsible for assessing program effectiveness within the Unit and developing short-term and long-term goals and objectives for the Branch. Develops priorities, schedules, and standards for achieving goals. Oversees customer support and response to internal and external inquiries and assignments. Ensures collaboration with other laboratory units, DSHS program areas, and stakeholders. Acts for the Unit Director when needed. Works under limited supervision with moderate latitude for initiative and independent judgment.
Essential Job Functions
Attends work on a regular and predictable schedule by agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.
EJF 1. Administration of daily operations and activities. Provides advanced managerial support and oversight for projects and activities related to quality improvement, workflow coordination, implementation of new laboratory tests, unit research projects, specimen handling, data compilation and review, grant coordination, and customer training and education for Newborn Screening and Clinical Chemistry testing. Provides project management support to ensure program activities are carried out in a timely, productive, coordinated, and organized manner and in compliance with all state and federal regulations and guidelines. Identifies areas of noncompliance, deficiencies, and quality issues with agency programs and determines solutions. Facilitates programmatic responsibilities for COOP planning, public information, residual specimen, and data requests, laboratory information management system, and other health informatics improvement projects. (35%)
EJF 2. Performs and directs personnel management in the Branch. Performs and supervises personnel activities and training through monitoring, coaching and evaluation of staff. Directs work assignments and all personnel functions delegated to the Branch to meet work requirements. Ensures that the performance evaluation process is conducted according to Human Resources guidelines. Maintains frequent and effective communication to update employees on laboratory progress and current issues. Responds to employee concerns about policy, work scheduling, and safety in their work environment. Monitors and ensures personnel comply with Department, Section, Unit, and Branch policies. Develops and implements a coaching and team-building strategy to enhance performance and morale. (25%)
EJF 3. Evaluates programs, develops goals, and oversees implementation. Develops and implements techniques for evaluating business functions within the Medical Screening Unit including coordination of unit contracts. Reports outcome measures of Branch programs and projects to the Unit Director and as requested to department management and committees. Identifies areas of needed change and makes recommendations to improve operations. Interacts with other programs to review guidelines and assess quality improvement, workflow coordination, specimen handling, and education and training needs. Develops Branch’s short-term and long-term goals and objectives and conducts strategic planning activities to develop priorities, schedules, and standards to achieve goals. Evaluate the need for the development of new policies and procedures or revision of current policies and procedures. Monitors compliance with agency, division, section, and branch policies and procedures. (20%)
EJF 4. Performs and provides guidance and assistance to customer services activities. Provides technical expertise and direction regarding inquiries and assignments related to the Branch function. Represents the Branch, prepares reports, and presents data. Fosters teamwork and communication inside and outside the branch. Coordinates and communicates with management and staff at all levels in the Laboratory and with other DSHS Units, Branches and Groups. Consults with customers to determine their needs and resolve concerns. Supplies educational materials, information, and training, and conducts tours of the Laboratory. Develops and maintains effective working relationships with internal/external partners and stakeholders. Trains Branch staff to be customer-oriented through their words and deeds. Investigates complaints and documents problems and the follow-up actions taken. (15%)
EJF 5. Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency’s obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location. Assures that contingency plans for testing are adequate. Based on your work area, consistently comply with DSHS Laboratory, local, state, and federal guidelines to ensure a safe functioning laboratory. (5%)
Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications: NA
Knowledge Skills Abilities: Knowledge of principles and practices of public health/laboratory testing.
Knowledge of principles and practices of public administration and management
Knowledge of principles of clinical laboratory testing, development of robust testing algorithms, current biochemical and molecular testing platforms, and interpretation of complicated clinical laboratory test results.
Knowledge of local, state, and federal laws and regulations relevant to the Medical Screening Unit and the Laboratory Services Section.
Knowledge of strategic planning, human resource management, project management and conflict resolution.
Skill and thorough knowledge of budget, finance, grant and contract management.
Skill in managing information systems for decision-making.
Skill in summarizing data in written, tabular, and graphic form.
Skill and thorough knowledge of mass communications; including media, education, and training.
Skill in using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems, and the use of a computer and applicable software.
Ability to manage business functions to plan, supervise and execute activities related to the responsibilities of the Medical Screening Quality Improvement and Testing Support Branch.
Ability to write and edit materials for medical, public health, lay, and other audiences.
Ability to prepare high-quality, effective reports.
Initial Screening Criteria
Public health or laboratory supervisor/manager experience preferred.
Quality Control Or Process Improvement Experience Preferred.
Bachelors, Master, or PhD in scientific field, preferred.
Project Management/coordination Experience, Preferred.
Grant writing and grant management experience, preferred.
Experience Interpreting And Applying Federal And State Laws, Preferred.
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 for this position. For more information see the Texas State Auditor’s Military Crosswalk at https://hr.sao.texas.gov/CompensationSystem/JobDescriptions/.
ADA Accommodations
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), DSHS will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring process for individuals with a qualifying disability. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the interview process, please notify the person who contacts you to schedule the interview. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747 or via email at HHSServiceCenter.Applications@ngahrhosting.com.
Salary Information, Pre-employment Checks, And Work Eligibility
- The salary offered will follow DSHS starting salary guidelines. Any employment offer is contingent upon available budgeted funds.
- Depending on the program area and position requirements, applicants selected for hire may be required to pass background and other due diligence checks.
- DSHS uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Download the I-9 form
Salary : $7,475 - $9,056
