What are the responsibilities and job description for the Senior Policy Advisor position at Texas Health and Human Services?
Date: Apr 3, 2025
Location:
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: Senior Policy Advisor
Job Title: Program Specialist VII
Agency: Health & Human Services Comm
Department: HSCS Forensic Coordination
Posting Number: 4644
Closing Date: 04/17/2025
Posting Audience: Internal and External
Occupational Category: Healthcare Practitioners and Technical
Salary Group: TEXAS-B-25
Salary Range: $5,797.66 - $9,508.25
Shift: Day
Additional Shift
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: 909 W 45TH ST BLDG 552
Other Locations:
MOS Codes
16GX,60C0,611X,612X,63G0,641X,712X,86M0,86P0,88A0,88B0,8U000,OS,OSS,PERS,YN,YNS
The Program Specialist VII, functionally known as a Senior Policy Advisor will report to the Health and Human Services Commission's (HHSC) State Forensic Director and Associate Commissioner for the Office of Forensic Services and Coordination (OFSC). The Senior Policy Advisor will lead forensic policy initiatives and act as a subject matter expert on policy, legislation and regulatory activity related to forensic services in Texas. The ideal candidate for this position has extensive experience analyzing and interpreting legislation, rules, and policies and providing guidance to executive and senior leadership.
The Senior Policy Advisor works under the direction of the Associate Commissioner with extensive latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgement to ensure the statutorily-mandated duties of the Forensic Director (SB 1507, 84th Legislature, Regular Session, 2015) are met. These duties include: statewide coordination and oversight of forensic services; coordination of forensic programs operated by HHSC; and addressing issues with the delivery of forensic services in Texas including significant increases in populations with serious mental illness and criminal justice system involvement. The Senior Policy Advisor will be expected to perform with independence at a senior-level and be a motivated self-starter.
The salary will be offered in accordance with the salary range posted for this position. Salary requests outside of the range in the posting will not be considered and is non-negotiable. For internal applicants, salary negotiations must align with the HHS Human Resources Manual and align with the salary range for this posting.
The Essential Job Functions For This Position Include
Serve as the OFSC lead for all policy activities, including legislative session. Monitor and analyze policy, legislation, and regulatory activities related to forensic services at local, state, and federal government levels. Provide technical assistance and consultation to internal and external stakeholders on policy, legislation, rules and codes that cover forensic populations, justice-involved populations, state-operated and state-contracted facilities, and community services. (40%).
Research and analyze forensic policy and practice in Texas, nationally, and in other states. Independently design, plan, and implement policy initiatives to improve forensic services based on research and best practices. Review, develop, or revise (or make recommendations to develop or revise) contracts, policy papers, rules, and statutes pertaining to forensic policy and services. (25%).
Coordinate and manage complex projects related to various forensic policies and programs. Develop and administer project management tools to facilitate this process (work plans, timelines, option development, analyses, issue papers, status updates, executive briefings, presentations, and other deliverables.) Develop high quality written project updates, summaries, and other documents as requested and reviews and provides guidance on written documents developed by team members. (25%)
Facilitate and participate in internal and external meetings that include other HHSC divisions and state agencies, legislative staff, and public stakeholders to provide information or technical assistance to resolve issues. Provide oral presentations and written materials as appropriate (10%)
Licensure, Certification Requirements
NA
Initial Selection Criteria
A juris doctorate or masters degree or doctoral degree from an accredited university in one of the following disciplines: public policy, public administration, psychology, social work, anthropology, or sociology. Other disciplines will be considered based on relevant coursework and experience.
At least five years’ experience in policy analysis, policy research, policy development and implementation, and legislative processes.
At least three years’ experience with the Texas legislative process.
Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities
Knowledge and experience in the forensic mental health policy, including forensic statutes, rules, legislation, and the current landscape of forensic policy at the national, state, and local levels;
Knowledge and policy experience in competence to stand trial, including service delivery in inpatient, outpatient, and jail-based competency restoration programs;
Knowledge and policy experience in the intersection between behavioral health and justice involvement;
Knowledge and/or policy experience in inpatient mental health services as provided in contracted private psychiatric beds, state hospitals, and state supported living centers;
Knowledge and/or policy experience in community mental health services as provided by local mental health authorities and local behavioral health authorities;
Excellent oral and written communication skills, including the ability to convey complex policy issues and research findings in a clear and concise manner, with a record of public presentations and published reports or papers;
Ability to work in collaboration with internal and external stakeholders to develop solutions to complex issues;
Creative and innovative mindset to strategically partner and collaborate with team members and other key stakeholders;
Action-oriented with strong self-direction and self-motivation skills with the ability to work simultaneously on multiple projects;
High degree of integrity, ability to build trust and communicate effectively;
Ability to work the hours of 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday through Friday with flexibility to be available after hours as needed such as during Legislative Sessions.
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: Austin
Location:
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: Senior Policy Advisor
Job Title: Program Specialist VII
Agency: Health & Human Services Comm
Department: HSCS Forensic Coordination
Posting Number: 4644
Closing Date: 04/17/2025
Posting Audience: Internal and External
Occupational Category: Healthcare Practitioners and Technical
Salary Group: TEXAS-B-25
Salary Range: $5,797.66 - $9,508.25
Shift: Day
Additional Shift
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: 909 W 45TH ST BLDG 552
Other Locations:
MOS Codes
16GX,60C0,611X,612X,63G0,641X,712X,86M0,86P0,88A0,88B0,8U000,OS,OSS,PERS,YN,YNS
The Program Specialist VII, functionally known as a Senior Policy Advisor will report to the Health and Human Services Commission's (HHSC) State Forensic Director and Associate Commissioner for the Office of Forensic Services and Coordination (OFSC). The Senior Policy Advisor will lead forensic policy initiatives and act as a subject matter expert on policy, legislation and regulatory activity related to forensic services in Texas. The ideal candidate for this position has extensive experience analyzing and interpreting legislation, rules, and policies and providing guidance to executive and senior leadership.
The Senior Policy Advisor works under the direction of the Associate Commissioner with extensive latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgement to ensure the statutorily-mandated duties of the Forensic Director (SB 1507, 84th Legislature, Regular Session, 2015) are met. These duties include: statewide coordination and oversight of forensic services; coordination of forensic programs operated by HHSC; and addressing issues with the delivery of forensic services in Texas including significant increases in populations with serious mental illness and criminal justice system involvement. The Senior Policy Advisor will be expected to perform with independence at a senior-level and be a motivated self-starter.
The salary will be offered in accordance with the salary range posted for this position. Salary requests outside of the range in the posting will not be considered and is non-negotiable. For internal applicants, salary negotiations must align with the HHS Human Resources Manual and align with the salary range for this posting.
The Essential Job Functions For This Position Include
Serve as the OFSC lead for all policy activities, including legislative session. Monitor and analyze policy, legislation, and regulatory activities related to forensic services at local, state, and federal government levels. Provide technical assistance and consultation to internal and external stakeholders on policy, legislation, rules and codes that cover forensic populations, justice-involved populations, state-operated and state-contracted facilities, and community services. (40%).
Research and analyze forensic policy and practice in Texas, nationally, and in other states. Independently design, plan, and implement policy initiatives to improve forensic services based on research and best practices. Review, develop, or revise (or make recommendations to develop or revise) contracts, policy papers, rules, and statutes pertaining to forensic policy and services. (25%).
Coordinate and manage complex projects related to various forensic policies and programs. Develop and administer project management tools to facilitate this process (work plans, timelines, option development, analyses, issue papers, status updates, executive briefings, presentations, and other deliverables.) Develop high quality written project updates, summaries, and other documents as requested and reviews and provides guidance on written documents developed by team members. (25%)
Facilitate and participate in internal and external meetings that include other HHSC divisions and state agencies, legislative staff, and public stakeholders to provide information or technical assistance to resolve issues. Provide oral presentations and written materials as appropriate (10%)
Licensure, Certification Requirements
NA
Initial Selection Criteria
A juris doctorate or masters degree or doctoral degree from an accredited university in one of the following disciplines: public policy, public administration, psychology, social work, anthropology, or sociology. Other disciplines will be considered based on relevant coursework and experience.
At least five years’ experience in policy analysis, policy research, policy development and implementation, and legislative processes.
At least three years’ experience with the Texas legislative process.
Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities
Knowledge and experience in the forensic mental health policy, including forensic statutes, rules, legislation, and the current landscape of forensic policy at the national, state, and local levels;
Knowledge and policy experience in competence to stand trial, including service delivery in inpatient, outpatient, and jail-based competency restoration programs;
Knowledge and policy experience in the intersection between behavioral health and justice involvement;
Knowledge and/or policy experience in inpatient mental health services as provided in contracted private psychiatric beds, state hospitals, and state supported living centers;
Knowledge and/or policy experience in community mental health services as provided by local mental health authorities and local behavioral health authorities;
Excellent oral and written communication skills, including the ability to convey complex policy issues and research findings in a clear and concise manner, with a record of public presentations and published reports or papers;
Ability to work in collaboration with internal and external stakeholders to develop solutions to complex issues;
Creative and innovative mindset to strategically partner and collaborate with team members and other key stakeholders;
Action-oriented with strong self-direction and self-motivation skills with the ability to work simultaneously on multiple projects;
High degree of integrity, ability to build trust and communicate effectively;
Ability to work the hours of 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday through Friday with flexibility to be available after hours as needed such as during Legislative Sessions.
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: Austin
Salary : $5,798 - $9,508
