Guardianship Department Director

Brief Job Description

This position serves as the Director of the Guardianship Department in the Legal Services Division (LSD) of the HHS Office of Chief Counsel (OCC). The Director oversees a team of attorneys and professional staff that provide legal services to HHS agencies, including direct representation in probate and district courts across Texas in guardianship proceedings and legal support on collections matters. The role collaborates with other LSD departments and OCC areas, ensuring effective communication with HHS system clients, executives, and state and federal partners while performing highly advanced managerial legal work with minimal supervision.

Essential Job Functions

• Review, analyze, and advise on the interpretation, application, and implementation of laws, rules, and policies affecting the HHS system and its operation and administration.
• Provide legal advice to HHS system staff and decision‑makers.
• Prepare and deliver legal briefings and reports to HHS system executives and decision‑makers.
• Perform related work as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of legal principles, practices, and proceedings; state and federal laws, regulations, and rules; HHS system administrative rules and regulations; and HHS system operational policies.
• Skill in identifying problems, reviewing related information, developing and evaluating options, and implementing solutions; using logic and reasoning to assess strengths, weaknesses, and legal implications of alternative solutions.
• Skill in building and maintaining positive working relationships within OCC, across the HHS system, and with external stakeholders.
• Ability to prepare legal documents, policies, and procedures; conduct research; interpret and apply laws; summarize findings; and communicate effectively to executive, legislative, judicial, and other audiences.
• Ability to formulate, coordinate, and establish policies and procedures, and to train, coordinate, lead, and supervise the work of others.
• Ability to use and train staff on current technology and to identify, implement, and train staff on new technology.

Requirements

• Must be licensed as an attorney by the State of Texas.
• At least five years’ experience in the practice of law.
• Experience managing professional staff.
• Preferred: Experience working with or within the Texas health and human services system.

Benefits

• 100% paid employee health insurance for full‑time eligible employees
• Defined benefit pension plan
• Generous time‑off benefits
• Numerous opportunities for career advancement
• Additional benefits detailed on the “Benefits of Working at HHS” webpage

Pay

Salary range: $14,000.00 – $16,000.00 per month (pay frequency: monthly). Salary group: TEXAS‑B‑32.

Schedule

• Shift: Day
• Telework: Eligible (subject to agency policies and supervisor discretion)
• Travel: Up to 5% of time

Location

Austin, TX – 4601 W Guadalupe St.