PS VI – Senior Policy Analyst

Job Description:
The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) seeks highly qualified and motivated candidates to fill a Senior Policy Analyst position within the Access and Eligibility Services (AES) Program Policy team.

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 Senior Policy Analyst performs complex policy research, analysis and policy development related to eligibility for Texas Medicaid (Title XIX), the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) (Title XXI), the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and/or other state and federal programs administered by HHSC and AES.

Job responsibilities include coordinating and conducting complex policy research on federal and state policies and best practices; completing legislative analysis; reviewing, interpreting, and analyzing federal and state statutes, rules and regulations, guidance and procedures; making recommendations for senior and executive management decision; preparing high-quality briefing materials and policy documents; leading project implementation; and effectively communicating policy and research orally and in writing.

The ideal candidate will thrive in an environment that emphasizes: innovation through new ideas, striving for excellence by taking pride in their work, embracing differences as a source of strength, accomplishing more through partnership, leading by example, and learning for continuous improvement.

This position is a statewide position with the capability to telework in accordance with agency policy. Selected candidate must have the ability to provide a personal home internet service. Selected candidate will be expected to travel to Austin periodically for relevant in-person meetings.

Multiple candidates may be selected to fill positions on the Program Policy team. The respective policy portfolio for selected candidates will be determined during the interview and selection process.
Essential Job Functions:
Plans, prioritizes and performs complex research and analysis on federal and state laws, legislation, rules, regulations, and guidance relating to state and federal programs administered by HHSC and AES and advises on impacts and considerations for HHSC. Conducts research on national best practices and application for Texas programs.

Prepares high-quality documents to support program planning, policy development, implementation and decision making (e.g., analysis, briefing documents, memoranda, presentations, talking points, rules, State Plan amendments, waiver applications).

Leads project implementation, establishing and facilitating workgroups and meetings. Represents Program Policy and AES on policy development and implementation projects, providing program policy expertise and working collaboratively to solve problems and ensure timely completion of goals and objectives.

Coordinates, drafts and reviews responses to requests for policy information from agency leadership, external stakeholders, legislative staff or the media. Provides guidance and technical assistance to agency staff on relevant policy matters.

Collaborates with team members to support AES, Program Policy and team priorities. Effectively communicates issues to management and works collaboratively to identify solutions.

Attends work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.
Knowledge Skills Abilities:
Knowledge of Medicaid, CHIP, SNAP, and TANF programs and the other state and federal programs administered by HHSC and AES.
Knowledge of state and federal legislative and policy development processes.
Strong skills in researching, interpreting, and analyzing complex data and policies.
Skill in identifying policy options and impacts for decision makers.
Skill in synthesizing complex information and translating it into clear and concise policy documents.
Strong skills in communicating verbally and in writing and presenting information publicly.
Skill in problem solving and independent decision-making.
Skill in critically evaluating issues and proactively seeking solutions.
Ability to manage projects and coordinate workgroups and meetings.
Ability to collaborate and develop effective professional relationships with coworkers and stakeholders.
Ability to prioritize time and manage multiple project deadlines.
Ability to develop work plans and organize work.
Ability to develop concise policy documents.
Ability to represent the department as a subject matter expert.

---