Human Services Technician IV
AUSTIN, TX
WHY WORK FOR DFPS?
The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) is responsible for protecting the unprotected — children, elderly, and people with disabilities — from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. DFPS accomplishes this responsibility by employing over 12,000 workers who live up to the agency's Mission, Vision, & Values in service to the citizens of Texas. DFPS is not only a qualifying organization for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program but also offers excellent health benefits, special discounts on many products and services through the Discount Purchase Program, longevity pay, generous paid leave, access to the Wellness program, lifetime retirement annuity, Texa$aver 401(k) and 457 Programs under the Employees Retirement System of Texas.
Functional Title: Human Services Technician IV
Job Title: Human Services Technician IV
Agency: Dept of Family & Protectve Svc
Department: SWI Texas Youth Helpline
Posting Number: 7760
Closing Date: 08/31/2025
Posting Audience: Internal and External
Occupational Category: Protective Services
Salary Group: TEXAS-A-13
Salary Range: $2,953.25 - $4,365.66
Pay Frequency: Monthly
Shift: Regular Evening and Weekend
Additional Shift:
Telework: Eligible for Telework
Travel: Up to 5%
Regular/Temporary: Regular
Full Time/Part Time: Full time
FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt
Facility Location:
Job Location City: AUSTIN
Job Location Address: 2401 RIDGEPOINT DR
Other Locations:
MOS Codes: HM, 4C0X1, 46XP, 46PX, 1973, 001387, 47L, 66C, 66R, 67D, 68X, L24A
Brief Job Description:
The Human Services Technician IV (HST IV) performs advanced human services support for the Texas Youth Helpline and Texas Parent Helpline. Work involves providing information to clients or assisting staff in the delivery of social services. May plan, assign, and/or supervise the work of others. HST IV works under minimal supervision, with extensive latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. This position will respond to helpline calls, chats and text messages on a 24/7 helpline. They will also assist with training new volunteers to properly handle and document contacts and referrals, be on-call to support TYH operation and provide coverage for staff and volunteers as needed. This position will also help locate new local, state, and national services for youth and families in addition to maintaining and updating the helpline resource database and other duties as assigned.
Essential Job Functions (EJFs):
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Provides specialized crisis intervention through telephone, text, and chat, information and referral services to runaways, troubled youth, families, and other helpline contacts. (90%)
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Assist new volunteers/staff with training and locating new local, statewide, and national services for youth and families. Perform other duties as assigned and required to maintain hotline operations (5%)
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Serve on call, by answering staff/volunteers concerns and questions regarding client contacts or providing coverage for staff/volunteers who are unable to complete their assigned shifts. (5%)
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
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Knowledge of resources and referrals appropriate to youth,
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Knowledge of the issues facing runaway and troubled youth,
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Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships,
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Skill in effective verbal and written communication,
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Skill in using computer programs (Excel, Word, Outlook)
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Ability to document all helpline contacts and referrals,
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Ability to effectively communicate with other staff and managers
Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:
N/A
Initial Screening Criteria:
Graduation from high school or GED certificate.
Additional Information:
5% Shift Differential will be added in addition to base salary for shifts that meet requirements (overnight and/or weekends) Applicants considered Austin, Texas area.
Review our Tips for Success when applying for jobs at DFPS, DSHS and HHSC.
Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information please see the Texas State Auditor’s Job Descriptions, Military Crosswalk and Military Crosswalk Guide at Texas State Auditor's Office - Job Descriptions. You may also contact the DFPS Military Liaison at dfpsmilvets@dfps.texas.gov with additional questions.
Applicants selected for hire must pass a background check and if applicable a driver’s record check.
State of Texas employees are required to maintain the security and integrity of critical infrastructure as defined in Section 117.001(2), State of Texas Business and Commerce Code. Applicants selected for hire comply with this code by completing related training and abiding by agency cybersecurity and communications system usage policies.
As a state agency, DFPS is required by Texas Administrative Code (TAC 206 and 213) to ensure all Electronic Information Resources (EIR) follow accessibility standards. The staff must be familiar with the WCAG 2.1 AA and Section 508 to create accessible content including but not limited to; Microsoft Office documents, Adobe PDFs, webpages, software, training guides, video, and audio files.
DFPS uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Employees must provide documentation to DFPS to show their identity and authorization to work in the US. Please review the following link for authorized documents: https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents .
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHS/DFPS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS/DFPS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.
Nearest Major Market: Austin