Civil Rights Specialist IV

Location: Austin, TX

Salary Range: $4,263.16 - $5,521.16 per month

About the role

The Civil Rights Specialist IV performs highly complex (senior-level) consultative services and technical assistance work relating to the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title VI compliance in programs and services. This position coordinates with agencies and programs in the development of policies, guidelines, and procedures related to civil rights compliance; participates in the planning, development, implementation, and evaluation of HHS civil rights programs; conducts discrimination complaint investigations; and provides consultative services and technical assistance to HHS staff, governmental agencies, community organizations, clients, and the general public.

The role includes analyzing data and preparing reports of compliance reviews of HHS facilities; assisting in researching, analyzing, and developing action plans for improvement or initiation of new programs to ensure adherence to federal and state civil rights requirements. Works under limited supervision, with moderate latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

Responsibilities

• Coordinates policies, procedures, and guidelines related to civil rights compliance and service delivery in HHS programs; develops effective techniques and conducts discrimination complaints investigations, including intake interviews, within required timeframes and in accordance with the Civil Rights Procedure Guide.
• Conducts surveys, interviews, and reviews to evaluate compliance with civil rights requirements; collects, organizes, and analyzes data; prepares compliance review reports based on interview responses and data; and provides guidance to staff in developing and integrating new methods and procedures.
• Assists in analyzing programs to develop action plans for improvement or initiation of new programs; collaborates with other civil rights staff to identify trends and resolve technical problems.
• Provides consultative services and technical assistance to programs regarding civil rights issues; assists in planning and implementing effective civil rights requirements; prepares training materials and presents training to HHS staff; and prepares regular and special reports for the civil rights management team.
• Participates in maintaining civil rights policies, procedures, standards, and manuals in accordance with Civil Rights Office (CRO) objectives and goals; researches opportunities to increase the effectiveness of current procedures and streamline processes; maintains knowledge of civil rights laws, rules, and regulations, as well as legal developments.
• Provides consultative services and technical assistance necessary to plan and implement effective civil rights programs, including other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• One year of experience in civil rights or a related field. Experience and education may be substituted on a year-for-year basis.
• Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university.
• Experience in investigating complaints and investigative methodologies.
• Experience in conducting FNS compliance reviews (preferred).
• Experience in problem-solving, mediation, and conflict resolution.

Skills

• Knowledge of HHS programs, policies, functions, and objectives.
• Knowledge of causes and effects of discriminatory practices.
• Knowledge of and ability to interpret applicable federal and state laws pertaining to civil rights, including Titles VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and related executive orders and federal guidelines.
• Skill in investigative methods and gathering and organizing information.
• Skill in summarizing facts logically and persuasively.
• Skill in presenting ideas and information effectively.
• Skill in human relations, counseling, and conflict resolution.
• Skill in planning and coordinating activities or tasks.
• Skill in developing and evaluating policies and procedures.
• Skill in using personal computers and software, including word processing programs.
• Ability to communicate orally and in writing with clients and stakeholders.
• Ability to research, organize, correlate, and analyze information to substantiate hypotheses or findings; devise solutions to problems; prepare concise reports; and develop evaluation policies and procedures.

Benefits

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• 100% paid employee health insurance for full-time eligible employees.
• A defined benefit pension plan.
• Generous time off benefits.
• Numerous opportunities for career advancement.

Schedule

• Full-time, regular position.
• Day shift (First).
• Up to 20% travel required.
• Telework may be eligible, subject to state and agency telework policies and supervisor discretion.