DSHS Commissioner

Brief Job Description

The Commissioner of the Department of State Health Services (DSHS) serves as the agency’s chief administrative officer and provides executive leadership, strategic direction, and operational oversight for Texas’ public health system. The position operates under the direction of the Executive Commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission and is responsible for ensuring the effective delivery of statewide public health programs that protect and improve the health and well-being of Texans.

Essential Job Functions (EJFs)

• Provides overall vision, leadership, and strategic direction for the Department, including leading continuous improvement of public health programs and service delivery systems.
• Oversees administration of statewide public health programs including disease prevention and control, public health preparedness, consumer protection, community health, and laboratory services.
• Directs development and implementation of policies, rules, and program guidelines in coordination with the Executive Commissioner.
• Oversees day-to-day agency operations, ensuring accountability, performance outcomes, and compliance with state and federal requirements.
• Represents the department before the Legislature, federal agencies, and stakeholders, and serves as liaison across the health and human services enterprise.
• Ensures execution of the state’s public health mission including disease surveillance and control, emergency preparedness, and population health improvement initiatives. DSHS is responsible for public health and medical activities during weather, manmade or infectious disease disaster events. This position will lead the agency’s response during disasters. Such participation may require an alternative shift pattern assignment and/or location.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs)

• Knowledge of:
• Federal and state public health laws, regulations, and policy frameworks.
• Public health systems, epidemiology, disease prevention, and emergency preparedness.
• Texas legislative, regulatory, and rulemaking processes.
• Skill in:
• Leading large, complex organizations and administering multifaceted public health programs.
• Ability to:
• Communicate effectively with executive leadership, legislators, federal partners, and other key stakeholders.
• Drive organizational performance, accountability, and continuous improvement across operations.

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications

• Licensure as a physician in the State of Texas preferred; non-physician candidates may be considered based on executive-level public health experience.

Initial Screening Criteria

• Five years of experience in the administration of public health systems required.
• Experience working with state or federal regulatory, legislative, or policy processes preferred.
• Experience within a state health agency, public health system, or large governmental organization preferred.
• Experience leading emergency response, public health preparedness, or other high-visibility operational initiatives preferred.

Additional Information

• This position is based in Austin, Texas.
• 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