Disaster Assistance Specialist II

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:

This Other Needs Assistance (ONA) temporary position assignment may last up to one year (potentially longer) depending on the disaster response need. Part-time telework up to 3 days a week may be available based on performance, compliance with the agency's telework policy, and business requirements after successful completion of 30-day training period. Telework arrangements are subject to adjustment and change based on policy and operational requirements.

The Disaster Assistance Specialist II role is a demanding yet rewarding case management position. Work involves determining eligibility for grants under the ONA program, part of the Federal Assistance for Individuals and Households Program (IHP).

Work includes:

• Reviewing and verifying case information.
• Issuing FEMA disaster assistance grants according to Federal and State guidelines
• Responding to inquiries about disaster assistance grants across the state.

Essential Job Functions (EJFs):

Inquiries & Assistance: Responds to statewide inquiries and requests for assistance using an automatic call distribution (ACD) system via the toll-free State Disaster Assistance Help Line. (35%)

Case Management & Compliance: Handles routine case management tasks, including determining eligibility and processing disaster assistance grants under FEMA’s Individual and Households Program (IHP). Researches and analyzes information to ensure compliance with Federal and State guidelines. (30%)

Interviews & Information Gathering: Conducts interviews with applicants, their authorized representatives, and third parties to gather and verify information. (10%)

Payment & Documentation: Utilizes the Disaster Assistance Payment Program (DAPP) to check grant payment information and uses the National Emergency Management Information System (NEMIS) to document, update, and review case records. (15%)

Attends work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned. (10%)

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs):

Knowledge of:

• Federal and state guidelines relevant to the Individuals and Households Program (IHP)

Skill in:

• Operating computers to perform data entry and basic office software use such as Microsoft Word, Outlook and Excel.

Ability to:

• Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Effectively manage time by prioritizing tasks.

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:

N/A

Initial Screening Criteria:

High School graduate or equivalent.

Experience with windows-based software preferred.

One (1) year of customer service experience with public contact which can include retail, call center, clerical, hospitality, banking, receptionist, or similar customer service experience.

Experience in an environment interviewing clients and gathering personal information in-person or over the phone is preferred.

Additional Information:

Upon hire, the selected candidate will be required to sign a Temporary Employment Agreement. This position is eligible for State of Texas employee benefits.

Candidates for positions with ONA must pass a FEMA background check. FEMA’s suitability determination is required to issue credentials for access to data, records, and systems which requires U.S. citizenship. The job offer depends on receiving full suitability clearance from FEMA.

This position requires working beyond normal work hours, including holidays and weekends. During periods of high-volume disaster response, the work schedule will extend to six days a week with 10-hour shifts between 7:00 AM and 7:00 PM. Additional overtime may be available.

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