Network Specialist I

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.

Functional Title: Network Specialist I 
Job Title: Network Specialist I 
Agency: Health & Human Services Comm 
Department: Reg Office Sup Deskside Reg 
Posting Number: 9380 
Closing Date: 03/24/2026 
Posting Audience: Internal and External 
Occupational Category: Computer and Mathematical 
Salary Group: TEXAS-B-17 
Salary Range: $4,252.00 - $4,252.00 
Pay Frequency: Monthly
Shift: Day 
Additional Shift: Days (First) 
Telework:  
Travel: Up to 75% 
Regular/Temporary: Regular 
Full Time/Part Time: Full time 
FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt 
Facility Location:  
Job Location City: AUSTIN 
Job Location Address: 6400 E HWY 290 BLDG 100 
Other Locations:  
MOS Codes: 0605,0620,0630,0631,0639,0670,0699,0784,1721,1723,1799,2611,2659,5974,6694,17C,17C0,17DX,17S,17SX 
181X,182X,18E,1B4X1,1D7X1,1D7X3,1N2X1,255A,255N,255S,255Z,25B,25D,25H,25U,25X,26A,26B,26Z,35T,514A 
5COX1D,5C0X1N,5C0X1S,681X,682X,781X,782X,CTI,CTM,CTT,CWT,CYB10,CYB11,ET,ISM,IT,ITS 
 

Job Description: Network Specialist I:

This is an entry level position. Are you ready to be professionally challenged? Are you looking to be part of a dynamic team of engaged and committed professionals? Then the Network Specialist I may be just the job for you! Under the Regional Information Technology Division, the Network Specialist I performs computer installations and on-going hands-on support for end users. As an IT staff member your contribution will make a difference in the life of many Texans. This position is located at the This position is located at the 6400 Hwy 290 East Ste. 100 Austin TX 78723, Health and Human Services Office. The position also provides support for the surrounding towns where we have HHSC offices covering twenty-six-thousand square miles. This IT Professional is trained to be ready to fix computer issues locally, remotely and travel to sites if issue persists/requires. IT techs work in a safe yet fast paced environment where customer requests need to be completed quickly, effectively, and efficiently. The job is also safe but a physically active position where ability to move and carry moderately heavy computer equipment is a critical requirement for this position (lifting 30lbs and up to 50lbs, includes bending, leaning, lifting, kneeling, and at times working under variant temperatures during summer heat 80 plus degrees and during winter 40 or lower degrees, performing Break/Fix of End User laptops, hands-on LAN/WAN Comm equipment, with use of handheld and/or wheel carts to move computer / telecommunications devices and may require multiple trips to vehicle from inside office building to outside, sometimes walking upstairs/downstairs. As this individual learns all requirements of the Network Specialist I position, the tech will also be trained alongside Senior IT Support Staff to learn highly technical skills including the latest up-to-date Operating System, Office Suite, Applications, and other customer Specialty Software. The Network Specialist I is brought up to speed (learns) to perform moderately complex (journey-level) computer systems support work. The tech learns to work under general supervision and is given moderate latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

Essential Job Functions:

Expected to work a predictable work schedule 8 - 5 daily. Preplanning for maintenance and projects on occasion requires techs to work afterhours and some weekends for project completions and to perform network equipment upgrades and to provide support during unexpected emergencies. NSI communicates with Teammates with End Users, with Vendors, Project Leads, and Management. Serves as local contact for remote network locations to obtain clarification of problems and to identify solutions or corrective actions. Provides customer service and answers user inquiries regarding computer software, hardware operation, and the use and interface of systems and software applications and provides end user support and training in the use of available hardware, software, and utilities. Troubleshoots and resolves computer-related problems. Sets up computer equipment for employee use and performs or ensures proper installation of cables, operating systems, or appropriate software. Installs, maintains, moves, and assists in testing and upgrading new and existing hardware or software. (lifting 30lbs and up to 50lbs, includes bending, leaning, lifting, kneeling, and at times working under variant temperatures during summer heat 80 plus degrees and during winter 40 or lower degrees). Assists in maintaining the local area network or wide area network, cable and switches installations, and inventories. Performs procedures for backup, recovery, and archival of files stored on the network. Communicates with vendors, users, management, and network programming staff. Assists in maintaining the network's physical and logical structures and in installing and testing hardware and software. Assists in performance tuning and capacity planning activities to enhance the performance of the network resources and in maintaining network support software. Assists in or conducts product evaluations of upgraded or new hardware and software and identifies strengths, weaknesses, and potential benefits to the agency. Assists in maintaining the operating system and security software utilized on the network, including the addition of new users to the network and establishment of rights and privileges. Must have reliable transportation with the appropriate insurance coverage and a valid Texas Driver’s License and capable of transporting computer/network equipment to complete work requests. This work includes new installations, and computer moves to complete short term projects and for direct involvement with the planning and successful completion of medium to long term projects. The Agency reimburses for gas mileage at the current State of Texas rate schedule. The employee is expected to submit a travel voucher no later than every 30 days. Techs are expected to travel short and long distance to meet with customers and return to headquarters by 5pm, each day, unless pre-authorized by Management. On occasion is expected to stay overnight for training and/or to complete pre-planned projects and in support of sister Region needs when requested. Expected to complete special projects and performs other duties as assigned and other related work as assigned. The interview process for this position may take up to 3 hours and may include a written exercise.

Registrations/Licensure/Requirements or Certifications:

Current Valid Texas Driver’s License.

Knowledge Skills Abilities: 

Ability to demonstrate during the interview process to be Open-Minded and welcoming to highly detailed On-The-Job training in order to gain Knowledge of computers, printers, other peripheral equipment, Microsoft products,
Ability to demonstrate during the interview process to be Open-Minded and welcoming to highly detailed On-The-Job training in order to use personal computers preferably Dell Computers Tablets and Laptops released within the last four years,
Ability to demonstrate during the interview process to be Open-Minded and welcoming to highly detailed On-The-Job training in order to use Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint Ability to self-evaluate and continuously improve one’s own knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Ability to demonstrate during the interview process to be Open-Minded and welcoming to highly detailed On-The-Job training in order to communicate both verbally and in writing with coworkers, customers, managers, and vendors.

Ability to demonstrate during the interview process to be Open-Minded and welcoming to highly detailed On-The-Job training in order to develop positive effective working relationships and establish credibility trust and confidence.
Ability to demonstrate during the interview process to be Open-Minded and welcoming to highly detailed On-The-Job training in order to work in a team environment, to recognize technical limitations and seek competent assistance when needed.

Ability to demonstrate during the interview process to be Open-Minded and welcoming to highly detailed On-The-Job training in order to use personal computers preferably Dell Computers.

Ability to demonstrate during the interview process to UNDERSTAND that the primary function of this NSI Job is Break/Fix IT equipment (computers/laptops/LAN/WAN) to include moving computer equipment and the use of handheld and/or wheel carts to move computer / telecommunications devices weighing 30lbs and up to 50lbs, and may require multiple trips to vehicle from inside office building to outside, sometimes walking upstairs/downstairs,
Ability to demonstrate during the interview process to be Open-Minded and welcoming to highly detailed On-The-Job training in order to learn to adhere to HHSC guiding principles, codes of ethics, and universal expectations for personal responsibility.

Ability to demonstrate during the interview process to be Open-Minded and welcoming to highly detailed On-The-Job training in order to promote teamwork, unit harmony, and the highest ethical standards.
Ability to demonstrate during the interview process to be Open-Minded and welcoming to highly detailed On-The-Job training in order to work under pressure and successfully manage multiple overlapping deadlines.
Ability to demonstrate during the interview process to be Open-Minded and welcoming to highly detailed On-The-Job training in order to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Ability to demonstrate during the interview process to be Open-Minded and welcoming to highly detailed On-The-Job training in order to be calm and able to obtain information when customer is under stressful conditions.
Ability to demonstrate during the interview process to be Open-Minded and welcoming to highly detailed On-The-Job training in order to be professional and knowledgeable keeping positive attitude and respectful behavior with customers and internal staff.

Ability to demonstrate during the interview process to be Open-Minded and welcoming to highly detailed On-The-Job training in order to gaining in depth knowledge, understanding, of the functions and use of computers, email, texting, monitors, Microsoft products.,
Ability to demonstrate during the interview process to be Open-Minded and welcoming to highly detailed On-The-Job training in order to use personal computers preferably Dell Computers.

Ability to demonstrate during the interview process to be Open-Minded and welcoming to highly detailed On-The-Job training in order to adhere to HHSC guiding principles, codes of ethics, and universal expectations for personal responsibility.

Ability to demonstrate during the interview process to be Open-Minded and welcoming to highly detailed On-The-Job training in order to take direction, work well as part of a team, and work independently when needed.
Ability to demonstrate during the interview process to be Open-Minded and welcoming to highly detailed On-The-Job training in order to adjust to a fast-paced workflow.
Ability to demonstrate during the interview process to be Open-Minded and welcoming to highly detailed On-The-Job training in order to learn current technical troubleshooting techniques. Ability to maintain technical documentation.
Ability to demonstrate during the interview process to be Open-Minded and welcoming to highly detailed On-The-Job training in order to take direction, work well as part of a team, and work independently when needed.

Ability to demonstrate during the interview process to be Open-Minded and welcoming to highly detailed On-The-Job training in order to adapt quickly to other duties as assigned.

Initial Screening Criteria:

Graduation from a standard senior high school or GED. A college degree or courses/training in the IT field preferred but not required. Experience operating a computer using Microsoft products (Outlook, Word, Excel) preferred but not required. High Volume Customer Service Experience preferred but not required. Preferred a general understanding of the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to perform duties and/or conveying during the interview being Open-Minded and welcoming to receiving highly detailed On-The-Job Training.

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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.