Policy Analyst

Brief Job Description

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). The role involves complex research, analysis, and policy development related to eligibility policy for Texas Works Medicaid, the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), and Healthy Texas Women (HTW) administered by HHSC and AES.

Essential Job Functions

• 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.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• 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.

Selection Criteria

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

Additional Information

• Occasional travel within Texas is required.
• Flexible telework options are available in accordance with HHSC policy.
• Applicants selected for hire will be required to pass background and other due‑diligence checks.
• The position may require occasional travel for meetings or training.
• Located in Austin; candidates residing more than 50 miles from the HHSC AES State Office Headquarters may not be eligible for reimbursement to Austin Headquarters.
• Active‑duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply.
• Reasonable accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities in compliance with the ADA.
• Pre‑employment checks include background verification and E‑Verify; I‑9 documentation must be presented on the first day of work.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits package 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. See the “Benefits of Working at HHS” webpage for additional details.

Pay

Salary Range: $4,523.16 – $6,200.00 per month (Pay Frequency: Monthly). Salary Group: TEXAS‑B‑21. Position is non‑exempt.

Schedule

• Shift: Day
• Telework: Eligible for telework (flexible options per HHSC policy).
• Travel: Up to 20 % (occasional travel within Texas).