Policy Analyst

About the role

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) seeks highly qualified and motivated candidates to fill a Policy Analyst (Program Specialist V) position within the Access and Eligibility Services. AES is driven by its mission to connect Texans to services and supports by helping individuals and families in need of food, medical care, cash assistance, and other social services. The Program Specialist V performs highly advanced consultative work involving complex research, analysis, and policy development related to eligibility policy for Texas Works Medicaid, Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), and Healthy Texas Women (HTW) administered by HHSC and AES. The ideal candidate thrives in a collaborative environment, demonstrates strong analytical and communication skills, and excels in coordinating policy development efforts across diverse stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Completes complex research assignments and interprets federal and state guidance using advanced analytical skills.
• Delivers accurate analysis within established timelines and presents findings clearly.
• Reviews and synthesizes data to support policy decision-making.
• Drafts, reviews, and edits policy documents including bulletins, memos, and handbook updates.
• Prepares briefings, memos, and materials that support leadership decisions.
• Supports policy implementation tasks to ensure successful rollout, accuracy, and consistency.
• Serves as a subject matter expert in meetings and workgroups.
• Provides timely and accurate clarification on escalated policy issues.
• Builds productive working relationships with internal and external partners.
• Coordinates project development and management activities, operationalizing project goals.
• Tracks policy issues, identifies challenges, and offers solutions.
• Manages multiple assignments simultaneously.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with major coursework in public policy, social work, public health, or a related field preferred; relevant work experience may substitute for education on a year-for-year basis.
• Experience conducting policy analysis.
• Experience working with Texas Works Medicaid, CHIP, HTW programs or other social service programs and policy.
• Experience synthesizing complex information and preparing clear policy documents.

Preferred qualifications

• Experience with legislative bill analysis and research.
• Experience with project management or working with projects.

Skills

• Knowledge of Texas Works Medicaid, CHIP, and HTW programs administered by HHSC.
• Knowledge of federal and state legislative and policy development processes.
• Skill in researching, interpreting, and analyzing complex policy data.
• Skill in preparing clear and concise policy documents.
• Skill in communication, problem-solving, and independent decision-making.
• Ability to organize work, manage multiple projects, and collaborate effectively.
• Ability to represent the department as a subject matter expert.

Benefits

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

Pay & schedule

Salary range: $4,523.16 - $6,200.00 per month. Full-time, nonexempt position. Day shift. Telework eligible. Occasional travel within Texas (up to 20%).