Health Program Specialist I (Hybrid Option)

About this Role

The Health Program Specialist I within the Office of Strategic Partnerships (OSP) supports the oversight, monitoring, and continuous improvement of the Justice-Involved Screening Portal. This role provides technical expertise by analyzing system performance, identifying opportunities for optimization, and helping communicate system functionality and enhancements. Responsibilities also include coordinating workstreams, supporting project management activities, and collaborating with internal and external partners involved in justice-involved initiatives.

This position serves as a liaison between DHCS divisions, state and county partners, advocates, stakeholders, and federal agencies. The HPS I facilitates workgroup meetings, represents DHCS in discussions, and collaborates with various partners to address Medi-Cal policy topics and develop action plans related to justice-involved Medi-Cal populations.

The Office of Strategic Partnerships leads major department-wide initiatives, including the CalAIM Justice-Involved Initiative, CalHOPE, Medi-Cal policy efforts, and broader strategic partnerships across DHCS and CalHHS. This position plays a critical role in ensuring these efforts align with the mission of advancing equitable access to quality health care and supporting successful reentry and continuity of care for justice-involved individuals.

Working Conditions

This position is eligible for a hybrid telework schedule. The amount of telework is at the discretion of the Department and is subject to change consistent with DHCS' Telework Program and Government Code sections.

Desirable Qualifications

• Knowledge of the public behavioral health system, including delivery systems and services
• Knowledge of the principles and practices of federal and state policies for Medicare and Medicaid
• Ability to develop new processes and procedures for a new program area
• Ability to establish and maintain collaborative working relationships with internal/external stakeholders
• Ability to multi-task and adapt to a changing environment; functioning effectively under demanding and competing deadlines and priorities
• Ability to work on confidential and sensitive assignments and exercise a high degree of initiative, independence, sound judgment in performing assigned tasks
• Ability to analyze situations and adopt effective courses of actions and/or processes
• Ability to conduct independent research and make recommendations to leadership
• Knowledge and experience related to federal and state regulatory and legislative processes
• Effective communication, business acumen, decision making, and problem-solving skills

Statement of Qualifications Requirement

Applicants must include a Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) for this recruitment. Resumes do not take the place of the SOQ. The SOQ must respond to the following prompts; be no more than two pages in length; and double-spaced using 12-point font. Include your full name and Job Control Number at the top right corner.

• Describe the training and work experience that has prepared you to perform the responsibilities of this position, providing examples of your experience leading or managing these activities and the level of complexity involved.
• Describe your experience collaborating with staff, management, and internal/external stakeholders to facilitate program development and implementation.
• Describe your experience working in a fast-paced setting with a multidisciplinary team.

Candidates who do not complete and submit an SOQ may not be considered for this position.

Benefits

As a team member of the State of California, you may be eligible for:

• Medical, including health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid holidays and vacation/leave
• Defined retirement program
• Savings Plus Program (401(k), 457)
• Medical/Dependent Care Reimbursement Accounts

DHCS also offers continuous and ongoing training, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion program activities, and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP).