Enforcement Attorney

Austin-based attorney position in the Enforcement Department, one of seven departments in the Legal Services Division of the HHS Office of Chief Counsel.

Salary range: $8,581.66 - $10,785.83 monthly (Pay Frequency: Monthly, Salary Group: TEXAS-B-26). Shift: Day. Eligible for telework. Travel: Up to 10%. Regular, full-time, FLSA Exempt. Job Location: 4601 W Guadalupe St, Austin, TX.

About the Role

The Enforcement Department provides legal support related to HHS sanctions against facilities, programs, and services, including reviewing and drafting notices, correspondence, and guidance documents; interpreting state and federal laws, regulations, and rules; rendering legal advice and counsel to HHS agency personnel; providing legal representation in contested case proceedings; and overseeing enforcement litigation in district courts.

The position serves as legal counsel for the Health and Human Services Commission and the Department of State Health Services and is responsible for representing HHSC in contested cases governed by the Administrative Procedure Act before the State Office of Administrative Hearings and the Health and Human Services Commission Appeals Division. The position is required to handle a docket of cases and should be experienced in and knowledgeable of litigation. The attorney advises program staff daily and helps them evaluate the legal sufficiency of proposed sanctions, and routinely provides training and consultation to HHSC staff regarding hearing processes.

Essential Job Functions

This attorney position provides legal representation, consultation, and support to program areas across the Health and Human Services system. Attorneys are required to:

• consult with program staff on complex issues of law;
• review, develop, and conduct training;
• research and brief relevant legal issues;
• review policies, rules, regulations, and forms for compliance with legal standards;
• manage caseloads;
• prepare cases for trial; and
• represent HHSC at hearings.

Attorneys are required to independently represent clients at hearings governed by the Administrative Procedures Act from docketing to completion, including:

• analyzing evidence and preparing case strategies;
• preparing and serving discovery requests;
• responding to discovery;
• preparing and responding to motions;
• identifying and preparing witnesses;
• conducting depositions; and
• representing the agency at hearing.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Skilled in legal research, writing and analysis
• Skilled in handling multiple projects and meeting tight deadlines
• Skilled in demonstrating sound judgment
• Knowledge of Administrative Procedures Act as well as civil trial practice
• Skilled in identifying problems, evaluating alternatives, and implementing solutions
• Skilled in working collaboratively and cooperatively with client representatives, other government employees, and stakeholder groups
• Ability to organize and manage multiple tasks of varying priorities and to make efficient use of time and resources
• Ability to communicate effectively with a wide range of audiences both verbally and in writing
• Ability to maintain effective and collegial relations with all levels of management, staff and the public
• Ability to analyze complex factual and legal issues related to a wide variety of federal and state laws
• Ability to use computer applications and databases related to essential functions of the job, including computer-assisted legal research, and word processing software

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications

Currently licensed to practice law in Texas.

Initial Screening Criteria

Must be licensed and in good standing with the Texas Bar. Administrative law experience preferred but not required.

Benefits

HHSC offers a comprehensive benefits package that 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.

Military Occupation(s)

Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but are not limited to: 4402, 4405, 4406, 4407, 4408, 4409, 4410, 4411, 4417, 250X, 27A, 51JX, 92J0, LGL10, LGL11. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position.

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.

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.