Deputy Commissioner for Operations

DSHS is committed to hiring skilled and dedicated individuals who share a passion for public health to pursue our vision of A Healthy Texas. If you are looking to make an impact and tackle new challenges, we encourage you to consider a career with us.

Employee Benefits:

DSHS offers insurance coverage and other benefits available through the State of Texas Group Benefits Plan administered by the Employee Retirement System of Texas (ERS). To learn more about all the benefits available to you as a DSHS employee and other DSHS opportunities for early career pathways, visit the DSHS Careers Page.

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Brief Job Description:

The Deputy Commissioner for Operations performs advanced managerial The Deputy Commissioner is a member of the DSHS executive team. The position serves as the primary point of contact and coordination for DSHS in relation to administrative support services provided by the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) in the areas of information resources/technology, system support, human resources, facilities management, and procurement and contracting services. In addition to the coordination role, the Deputy Commissioner leads planning for future department operations needs and resolution of problems in these operations areas. 

The position leads and coordinates the department’s operations functions including information resources/technology, system support, facilities management, business support and planning, human resources, training and development, workforce planning and strategy, and contract management services. The Deputy Commissioner directly supervises operations management staff and works under minimal supervision with extensive latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

Essential Job Functions (EJFs):

EJF 1: Provides overall vision, leadership, and strategic direction to the department’s operations functions. As a member of the DSHS Executive Team, provides information, counsel, and support to other department executives and management on operations and support issues and concerns. (20%)

EJF 2: Leads and coordinates the department’s operations functions including information resources/technology, system support, facilities management, business support and planning, human resources, training and development, workforce planning and strategy, and contract management services. Directs major operational initiatives for the department and serves as lead in the resolution for problems relating to operations issues. Serves as a liaison and primary point of coordination for department executive staff and HHSC administrative support services, specifically Information Technology, System Support Services, Procurement and Contracting Services. Plans and coordinates department facility needs with HHSC and the Texas Facilities Commission, including planning and management of leased space needs, facility maintenance and renovation, and major construction projects. (25%)

EJF 3: Directs planning, implementation, coordination, and evaluation of the Operations Division. Assesses and organizes the operations and support functions to meet necessary service levels for the department. Collaborates with other DSHS divisions to ensure administrative function needs are being met and or prioritized appropriately.  Supervises managers and staff persons including hiring and selection, assigning work, completing performance evaluations, recommending personnel and disciplinary actions, and scheduling and approving leave. (20%)

EJF 4: Administers the Operations division’s budget and ensures effective and efficient support of the department’s programs and services. Develops and maintains an appropriate organizational structure that supports the needs of the department. Develops policies, procedures, and guidelines, and monitors compliance. Assists in the development of the department’s budget and Legislative Appropriations Request process in conjunction with agency executive management team. (15%)

EJF 5: Represents the department with HHSC, various state and external committees, other state and federal agencies, Department of Information Resources, Texas Facilities Commission, and other organizations regarding the department’s operations. Makes presentations, attends work groups and committee meetings, and provides information and testimony as needed to these entities. (15%)

EJF 6: Attends work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned. This position is responsible for Continuity of Operations during times of disaster and or other public health response, as such, may be required to work hours outside the normal work week. (5%)

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs):

Knowledge of the principles of leadership; IT concepts and processes; Texas procurement and contract management; state agency operations, state government legal processes, and the Texas legislative process; contract lifecycle management.

Skill in planning, executing, and evaluating complex programs, policies, procedures; problem solving; management of time, people, and resources; leadership, communication, and public speaking; and working collaboratively and cooperatively with diverse groups.

Ability to develop, implement, and communicate an organizational vision; integrate key goals, priorities, and values; lead, implement, and balance change and continuity; use technology to enhance decision making; negotiate; make timely and effective decisions and produce results.

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:

N/A

Initial Screening Criteria:

1. Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university is required. Master’s degree preferred.

2. Eight years of increasing supervisory experience.

3. Experience in leading procurement and contracts. Experience with Texas contract and procurement preferred.

4. Experience in directing IT system support and maintenance for programs preferred.

5. Experience in either HR or facility management.

5. Experience working with executives preferred.

Additional Information:

None.

Active Duty, Military, Reservists, Guardsmen, and Veterans:

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 for this position. For more information see the Texas State Auditor’s Military Crosswalk at https://hr.sao.texas.gov/CompensationSystem/JobDescriptions/.

ADA Accommodations:

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), DSHS will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring process for individuals with a qualifying disability. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the interview process, please notify the person who contacts you to schedule the interview. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747 or via email at HHSServiceCenter.Applications@ngahrhosting.com.

Salary Information, Pre-employment Checks, and Work Eligibility:

• The salary offered will follow DSHS starting salary guidelines. Any employment offer is contingent upon available budgeted funds.
• Depending on the program area and position requirements, applicants selected for hire may be required to pass background and other due diligence checks.
• DSHS uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work.  Download the I-9 form