Behavioral Health Program Specialist V

Join the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and be part of a team committed to creating a positive impact in the lives of fellow Texans. At HHSC, your contributions matter, and we support you at each stage of your life and work journey. Our 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. Explore more details on the Benefits of Working at HHS webpage.

Brief Job Description

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) Medicaid and CHIP Services (MCS) Department seeks a highly qualified candidate to fill the position of the Behavioral Health Program Specialist V. This position will focus on mental health and substance abuse topics in Texas Medicaid and CHIP programs. MCS is driven by its mission to deliver quality, cost-effective services to Texans. The Program Specialist V will be selected by and directly report to a Manager in the Program Policy unit in the Medicaid and CHIP Services Department (MCS). The Program Specialist performs advanced consultative and technical work related to the planning, development, implementation, maintenance, and oversight of Medicaid and CHIP managed care program policy, including policy development, program management and oversight, and service delivery. Specifically, the Program Specialist could be assigned to focus on Medicaid and CHIP managed care or behavioral health services in managed care.

The Program Specialist is expected to provide subject matter expertise on Medicaid and CHIP managed care issues to agency staff, governmental agencies, community organizations, provider organizations, and the general public; coordinate and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to develop policy; oversee the development of operational policy, including contract, administrative rule, manual, and procedural requirements; assist in ensuring compliance and resolution of program policy-related issues; participate in and help to facilitate meetings with stakeholders, including managed care organizations, managed transportation organizations, provider associations, clients, advisory committee members; ensure policy and guidance documents are up-to-date; prepare high quality written reports, correspondence, and other documents; draft and complete legislative reports; and analyze program regulations, policies, and legislation. The Program Specialist works under the general direction of the Program Policy Manager with latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Experience with and knowledge of Medicaid and CHIP managed care or behavioral health is preferred.

Why do you want to work here?

This unit offers an exciting and demanding work environment where staff constantly learn and take initiative on projects that lead to upward mobility and future career success. It is a fast-paced work environment that requires flexibility and adaptability, and a willingness to participate as a member of a collaborative and supportive team.

Essential Job Functions

Attends work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.

(25%) Plans for and oversees the analysis, development, implementation and documentation of federal and state legislation and regulations related to Medicaid and CHIP managed care or behavioral health services in managed care. Provides oversight in the development of legislative analyses, research papers, reports, and legislative information.

(25%) Develops and/or oversees the development and implementation of Medicaid and CHIP managed care or behavioral health program policy options for related initiatives impacting HHSC agencies, including policy analysis, option development, timelines, projects structures, financial analyses, and detailed work plans.

(20%) Establishes, facilitates, and participates in multiple workgroups and committees, including inter-agency workgroups and committees that support program management and oversight of Medicaid and CHIP managed care or behavioral health services in managed care.

(20%) Prepares and approves high quality written documents, including project updates, memos, summaries, legislative reports, rules, waivers, state plan amendments, and other documents.

(10%) Works with and presents to community and professional groups to coordinate, and improve Medicaid and CHIP managed care or behavioral health initiatives. Consults with public and private agencies to resolve problems, identify training needs, and discuss effectiveness.

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications

N/A

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge of:

• Federal and state Medicaid and CHIP laws and regulations, including those related to managed care or behavioral health services in managed care.

Skill in:

• Researching, analyzing, and evaluating complex federal and state regulations, legislation, program policy, and operational issues;
• Project management; and
• Interpersonal relationships, including the ability to work with people under pressure, negotiate among multiple parties, resolve conflicts, and establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Ability to:

• Perform work with a high degree of attention to detail;
• Develop workable solutions to complex problems and policy issues;
• Interpret legal documents such as contracts and manuals;
• Exercise judgment and work independently with minimum supervision;
• Work cooperatively as a team member in a fast-pasted, deadline-oriented environment;
• Balance multiple assignments, projects, and responsibilities; and
• Lead workgroups and meetings.

Initial Screening Criteria 

• At least one year of full-time work experience with policy research and analysis, project management, or program management.
• Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university.
• A master’s degree may substitute for one year of the work experience listed above.
• Each additional year of full-time work experience in excess of the required one year may substitute for one year of college on a year-per-year basis.  

Review our Tips for Success when applying for jobs at DFPS, DSHS and HHSC.

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 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.

ADA Accommodations:

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHSC and DSHS 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 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.

Pre-Employment Checks and Work Eligibility:

Depending on the program area and position requirements, applicants selected for hire may be required to pass background and other due diligence checks.

HHSC uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Download the I-9 Form

Telework Disclaimer:

This position may be eligible for telework.  Please note, all HHS positions are subject to state and agency telework policies in addition to the discretion of the direct supervisor and business needs.