Program Specialist (Austin)

Who We Are

The Texas Workforce Commission is seeking a Program Specialist to work in the Workforce Program Policy Department, located at 1117 Trinity St., Austin, Texas. This in-office position will be responsible for supporting the development of a statewide, market-driven system of employment and training policies.

Who You Are

The ideal candidate is a strategic and innovative leader who excels at driving complex projects from inception to completion. Your analytical skills and detail-oriented approach enable you to dissect legislation, identify opportunities amidst challenges, and develop effective solutions. As a proven policy researcher, you thrive in fast-paced environments, managing multiple projects while collaborating with diverse stakeholders. Because of your commitment to continuous learning, you maintain expertise in workforce development trends and communicate complex information clearly and effectively to any audience. This position plays a critical role in ensuring the successful policy development of Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, Wagner-Peyser Employment Service, Trade Adjustment Assistance, and Rapid Response Programs, and may also assist with the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, Non-custodial Parent, and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Employment and Training programs.

What You Will Do

The Program Specialist VII will perform highly advanced (senior-level) consultative services and technical assistance work. May serve as a lead worker providing direction to others. Works under minimal supervision, with extensive latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

• Research, interpret, and analyze complex state and federal laws and regulations to determine their impact on program operations.
• Prepare policy documents such as discussion papers, position papers, procedures, and guidelines for employment and training programs.
• Lead the preparation of administrative reports, state plans, federal waiver requests, and reports for the Texas Legislature and federal agencies on the effectiveness of workforce programs.
• Lead the analysis and tracking of federal legislation and proposed and final regulations, and drafts comments for submission to federal partners.
• Respond to legislative and external inquiries and requests.
• Provide high-level technical assistance and guidance to 28 Local Workforce Development Boards to ensure workforce programs are operated according to TWC standards.
• Prepare analysis of bills of the Texas Legislature to determine their impact on TWC policies, operations, and costs.
• Promote the goals of TWC and workforce employment and training services at public meetings and interagency workgroups.
• Develop agency rules and lead rule-making teams through each stage of the rule-making process.
• Serve as a lead on implementation and ongoing management of complex program initiatives.
• Assist with department activities related to process improvement and business transformation.
• Assist with training staff on department operations, program operations and policies, and team responsibilities.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Four years of full-time experience in the development, implementation, or interpretation of policies and procedures in a public or private agency. Relevant academic credits may be applied toward experience qualifications for this position.

Skills

• A strong foundational understanding of the principles of policy development and implementation.
• Excellent research and analytical skills, including the ability to gather, interpret, and analyze information from various sources, identify operational impacts, and draw logical conclusions.
• The ability to quickly learn complex new content and adapt to changing priorities within a fast-paced agency environment.
• Skill in leading teams and fostering a collaborative work environment under minimal supervision.
• Outstanding communication skills to present details clearly to any audience.

Benefits

• Family Friendly Certified Workplace
• Competitive salary: $7,334.24 - $7,700.95/month
• Defined Retirement Benefit Plan
• Optional 401(k) and 457 accounts
• Medical Insurance
• Paid time off, including time for vacation, sick and family care leave
• Additional benefits for active employees can be found at https://www.ers.texas.gov/Active-Employees/Health-Benefits

Pay

$7,334.24 - $7,700.95/month

Schedule

Duty involves up to 10% travel within the state of Texas.