What are the responsibilities and job description for the Program Specialist V position at Texas Health and Human Services?
Date: Apr 2, 2025
Location:
HOUSTON, 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: Program Specialist V
Job Title: Program Specialist V
Agency: Health & Human Services Comm
Department: AES CA ASSOC COMM
Posting Number: 4534
Closing Date: 04/16/2025
Posting Audience: Internal and External
Occupational Category: Office and Administrative Support
Salary Group: TEXAS-B-21
Salary Range: $4,523.16 - $4,523.16
Shift: Day
Additional Shift: Days (First)
Telework
Travel: Up to 20%
Regular/Temporary: Regular
Full Time/Part Time: Full time
FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt
Facility Location:
Job Location City: HOUSTON
Job Location Address: 8511 N HOUSTON ROSSLYN RD
Other Locations: Austin
MOS Codes
16GX,60C0,611X,612X,63G0,641X,712X,86M0,86P0,88A0,88B0,8U000,OS,OSS,PERS,YN,YNS
This is a temporary position that is expected to end on 08/31/2025. Temporary employees may be eligible to transfer to a regular status vacant position, contingent upon regular status position availability, additional funding, and job performance.
Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) seeks highly qualified candidates to fill the Program Specialist V within the Access & Eligibility Services (AES). AES is driven by the mission to connect Texans to services by helping individuals and families in need of food, medical care, cash assistance, and other social services. The Program Specialist V position directly supports Community Engagement (CE) Programs. CE is dedicated to fostering a culture of continuous improvement, promoting ongoing learning, fostering innovation, and implementing best practices to effectively empower individuals with access to essential public assistance programs and resources.
This position will serve as the Nutrition Incentive Program (NIP) Program Specialist within the AES division. The NIP Program Specialist is a critical role within HHSC. This position is dedicated to increasing the purchase of fruits and vegetables by low-income households participating in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) by providing an incentive at the point of purchase. The primary goal is to improve access to fresh, locally grown produce, support Texas farmers and retailers, and boost local economies. The NIP will make healthier foods more affordable to low-income households, reduce food insecurity, and promote improved physical and mental health outcomes.
The Program Specialist V acts as a liaison to internal and external stakeholders to ensure appropriate coordination and collaboration efforts. Represents programs in meetings with internal and external departments and on committees as needed. Develops and contributes to the preparation of accurate, quality, and timely documents and work products (e.g., reports, information/action memorandum, procurement and contract documents, summaries, etc.). Works with appropriate staff to facilitate continuous program and process improvements and identification of opportunities for program operations to improve services and reduce costs. Assist with day-to-day operations, including the handling of escalated issues, legislative analysis and communications, and development of and review of critical documents. May train, lead, assign, and/or prioritize the work of others. The Program Specialist V works under minimal direction, with extensive latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. The ideal candidate will thrive in an environment that emphasizes innovation through new ideas, striving for excellence by taking pride in your work, embracing others’ differences as a source of strength, accomplishing more through partnership, leading by example, and learning for continuous improvement. Perform other duties as assigned based on program and business needs.
Upon hire, the selected candidate will be required to sign a Temporary Employment Agreement. Temporary employees may be eligible to transfer to a regular status vacant position, contingent upon regular status position availability, additional funding, and job performance.
Stakeholder relations and communication: Serves as a program liaison and subject matter expert (SME) within the community access division of AES. Supports successful execution of program design, goals, and initiatives. Provides support, and guidance to internal and external stakeholders on related activities and services targeting populations served by this program. This includes but is not limited to policy interpretation and application, serving as a subject matter expert on NIP providing consultative services to potential stakeholders and management on program operations. Speaks to internal and external stakeholders to coordinate, improve, and stimulate interest in the program(s) and to secure support for the program(s).
Data Collection and Legislative Analysis: Coordinates legislative analysis and legislation session duties. Assists with data entry and program evaluation projects as directed by the Director and works independently and cross-functionally within a team. Develops, and assists others with the development of policy documents, policy reports, and audit documents. Prepares high-quality briefing documents, issue papers, correspondence, bill analysis, and memorandum for senior and executive management review and decision-making. Analyzes legislation to develop recommendations for policy in programmatic issues relating to the implementation, improvement, and/or expansion or reduction of program funding; and assists in responding to legislative and external inquiries and requests. Collect and analyze data on NIP participation. Use data to inform policy and funding decisions, and to assess the effectiveness of the NIP compliance with program policies and procedures, statutes, and rules; and takes corrective action(s) as needed.
Programmatic support: Provides support for the development and implementation of the awarded project. Ensure the collaborative functioning of any project partners, sub-recipients, or contractors. Plans, prioritizes, and performs various technical, training, research, planning, policy, program assessments, and administrative activities for assigned program(s), including overseeing the delivery of services; providing high-level technical assistance for a program; and creating efficiencies where opportunities occur. Develop executive briefing documents, and issue papers and memorandum for executive decision-making. Completes and monitors required administrative and performance reports, studies, and specialized projects; and recommends appropriate changes to programs. Consults with public and private agencies involved in programs to resolve problems, identify training needs, and discuss program effectiveness. Responsible for the administrative oversight of the award and prepares and evaluates program budget requests. Provide quality assurance and technical assistance to the contractor. Perform other duties as assigned based on program and business needs.
Programmatic Monitoring: Monitors required performance reports and recommends appropriate changes. Monitors, reviews, and evaluates compliance with program policies and procedures, statutes, and rules for NIP.
Reviews and evaluates information on service delivery system methods, outputs, activities, and trends to identify gaps in resources and recommends and implements improvements to resolve technical problems.
Studies and analyzes operations and problems, prepares reports of findings and recommendations and prepares justifications for the implementation of procedural or policy changes. Evaluates research findings relative to specific projects being developed. Reviews program area functions and operations, identifies areas needing change, and develops plans to improve programs or to address areas of concern. Monitors the implementation of program activities and initiatives. Tracks progress toward program goals and objectives. May conduct site visits or inspections to assess program effectiveness. Monitors and oversees the timely and accurate completion of program reports. Reviews and analyzes invoices, program data and prepares reports for internal and external stakeholders. Collaborates with finance and accounting teams to ensure accurate financial management.
Licensure, certification, or registration to perform this job: N/A
KSAs
Knowledge of project management strategies and procedures.
Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a bachelor's degree. Experience and education may be substituted for one another.
Experience researching, interpreting, and analyzing complex federal and state policies and legislation.
Three years or more experience in developing/analyzing business rules and requirements.
Preferred Criteria
Experience with legislative processes preferred.
Three years or more work and experience working with Health and Human Services programs is preferred.
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.
Nearest Major Market: Houston
Location:
HOUSTON, 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: Program Specialist V
Job Title: Program Specialist V
Agency: Health & Human Services Comm
Department: AES CA ASSOC COMM
Posting Number: 4534
Closing Date: 04/16/2025
Posting Audience: Internal and External
Occupational Category: Office and Administrative Support
Salary Group: TEXAS-B-21
Salary Range: $4,523.16 - $4,523.16
Shift: Day
Additional Shift: Days (First)
Telework
Travel: Up to 20%
Regular/Temporary: Regular
Full Time/Part Time: Full time
FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt
Facility Location:
Job Location City: HOUSTON
Job Location Address: 8511 N HOUSTON ROSSLYN RD
Other Locations: Austin
MOS Codes
16GX,60C0,611X,612X,63G0,641X,712X,86M0,86P0,88A0,88B0,8U000,OS,OSS,PERS,YN,YNS
This is a temporary position that is expected to end on 08/31/2025. Temporary employees may be eligible to transfer to a regular status vacant position, contingent upon regular status position availability, additional funding, and job performance.
Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) seeks highly qualified candidates to fill the Program Specialist V within the Access & Eligibility Services (AES). AES is driven by the mission to connect Texans to services by helping individuals and families in need of food, medical care, cash assistance, and other social services. The Program Specialist V position directly supports Community Engagement (CE) Programs. CE is dedicated to fostering a culture of continuous improvement, promoting ongoing learning, fostering innovation, and implementing best practices to effectively empower individuals with access to essential public assistance programs and resources.
This position will serve as the Nutrition Incentive Program (NIP) Program Specialist within the AES division. The NIP Program Specialist is a critical role within HHSC. This position is dedicated to increasing the purchase of fruits and vegetables by low-income households participating in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) by providing an incentive at the point of purchase. The primary goal is to improve access to fresh, locally grown produce, support Texas farmers and retailers, and boost local economies. The NIP will make healthier foods more affordable to low-income households, reduce food insecurity, and promote improved physical and mental health outcomes.
The Program Specialist V acts as a liaison to internal and external stakeholders to ensure appropriate coordination and collaboration efforts. Represents programs in meetings with internal and external departments and on committees as needed. Develops and contributes to the preparation of accurate, quality, and timely documents and work products (e.g., reports, information/action memorandum, procurement and contract documents, summaries, etc.). Works with appropriate staff to facilitate continuous program and process improvements and identification of opportunities for program operations to improve services and reduce costs. Assist with day-to-day operations, including the handling of escalated issues, legislative analysis and communications, and development of and review of critical documents. May train, lead, assign, and/or prioritize the work of others. The Program Specialist V works under minimal direction, with extensive latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. The ideal candidate will thrive in an environment that emphasizes innovation through new ideas, striving for excellence by taking pride in your work, embracing others’ differences as a source of strength, accomplishing more through partnership, leading by example, and learning for continuous improvement. Perform other duties as assigned based on program and business needs.
Upon hire, the selected candidate will be required to sign a Temporary Employment Agreement. Temporary employees may be eligible to transfer to a regular status vacant position, contingent upon regular status position availability, additional funding, and job performance.
Stakeholder relations and communication: Serves as a program liaison and subject matter expert (SME) within the community access division of AES. Supports successful execution of program design, goals, and initiatives. Provides support, and guidance to internal and external stakeholders on related activities and services targeting populations served by this program. This includes but is not limited to policy interpretation and application, serving as a subject matter expert on NIP providing consultative services to potential stakeholders and management on program operations. Speaks to internal and external stakeholders to coordinate, improve, and stimulate interest in the program(s) and to secure support for the program(s).
Data Collection and Legislative Analysis: Coordinates legislative analysis and legislation session duties. Assists with data entry and program evaluation projects as directed by the Director and works independently and cross-functionally within a team. Develops, and assists others with the development of policy documents, policy reports, and audit documents. Prepares high-quality briefing documents, issue papers, correspondence, bill analysis, and memorandum for senior and executive management review and decision-making. Analyzes legislation to develop recommendations for policy in programmatic issues relating to the implementation, improvement, and/or expansion or reduction of program funding; and assists in responding to legislative and external inquiries and requests. Collect and analyze data on NIP participation. Use data to inform policy and funding decisions, and to assess the effectiveness of the NIP compliance with program policies and procedures, statutes, and rules; and takes corrective action(s) as needed.
Programmatic support: Provides support for the development and implementation of the awarded project. Ensure the collaborative functioning of any project partners, sub-recipients, or contractors. Plans, prioritizes, and performs various technical, training, research, planning, policy, program assessments, and administrative activities for assigned program(s), including overseeing the delivery of services; providing high-level technical assistance for a program; and creating efficiencies where opportunities occur. Develop executive briefing documents, and issue papers and memorandum for executive decision-making. Completes and monitors required administrative and performance reports, studies, and specialized projects; and recommends appropriate changes to programs. Consults with public and private agencies involved in programs to resolve problems, identify training needs, and discuss program effectiveness. Responsible for the administrative oversight of the award and prepares and evaluates program budget requests. Provide quality assurance and technical assistance to the contractor. Perform other duties as assigned based on program and business needs.
Programmatic Monitoring: Monitors required performance reports and recommends appropriate changes. Monitors, reviews, and evaluates compliance with program policies and procedures, statutes, and rules for NIP.
Reviews and evaluates information on service delivery system methods, outputs, activities, and trends to identify gaps in resources and recommends and implements improvements to resolve technical problems.
Studies and analyzes operations and problems, prepares reports of findings and recommendations and prepares justifications for the implementation of procedural or policy changes. Evaluates research findings relative to specific projects being developed. Reviews program area functions and operations, identifies areas needing change, and develops plans to improve programs or to address areas of concern. Monitors the implementation of program activities and initiatives. Tracks progress toward program goals and objectives. May conduct site visits or inspections to assess program effectiveness. Monitors and oversees the timely and accurate completion of program reports. Reviews and analyzes invoices, program data and prepares reports for internal and external stakeholders. Collaborates with finance and accounting teams to ensure accurate financial management.
Licensure, certification, or registration to perform this job: N/A
KSAs
Knowledge of project management strategies and procedures.
- Knowledge of government organization and administration.
- Knowledge of the Community Partner Program
- Knowledge of SNAP
- Skill in tracking and monitoring project progress.
- Skill in identifying problems, evaluating alternatives, and implementing solutions.
- Skill in working collaboratively and cooperatively with diverse groups.
- Skill in analyzing and evaluating complex program and policy issues.
- Skill in communication and public speaking.
- Ability to interpret data and develop reports and effective operating procedures.
- Ability to organize and present information effectively, both orally and in writing to diverse audiences.
- Ability to lead in an environment of change.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff at all levels of an organization, agencies, providers, stakeholders, and elected officials.
- Ability to plan, organize, and coordinate work among contracted and non-contracted staff.
- Ability to perform work with a high degree of attention to detail.
- Ability to work independently and operate effectively within established guidelines and timeframes.
- Ability to lead project teams, work with multiple stakeholders, and provide oversight to contracted vendors.
- Ability to write and revise standards and procedures.
- Ability to evaluate and make recommendations for program improvements.
- Ability to train others and provide technical assistance.
Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a bachelor's degree. Experience and education may be substituted for one another.
Experience researching, interpreting, and analyzing complex federal and state policies and legislation.
Three years or more experience in developing/analyzing business rules and requirements.
Preferred Criteria
Experience with legislative processes preferred.
Three years or more work and experience working with Health and Human Services programs is preferred.
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.
Nearest Major Market: Houston
Salary : $4,523
