Open Records Legal Assistant

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: Open Records Legal Assistant 
Job Title: Legal Assistant V 
Agency: Health & Human Services Comm 
Department: LSD ORDG 1 
Posting Number: 12197 
Closing Date: 01/16/2026 
Posting Audience: Internal and External 
Occupational Category: Legal 
Salary Group: TEXAS-B-24 
Salary Range: $6,000.00 - $7,250.00 
Pay Frequency: Monthly
Shift: Day 
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: 4601 W GUADALUPE ST 
Other Locations:  
MOS Codes: 4400,4421,4422,4430,270A,27D,5J0X1,LN,YN,YNS 
 
 
 

Brief Job Description

This position is a Legal Assistant V in the Open Records and Data Governance Department (ORDG). ORDG is one of seven departments in the Legal Services Division of the HHS Office of Chief Counsel (OCC). The Open Records team is responsible for ensuring HHS agencies' compliance with the Public Information Act (PIA). An Open Records Legal Assistant reviews PIA requests, routes the requests to the appropriate HHS system areas, and works with system areas to ensure proper redaction and release of information. If needed, the Legal Assistant also participates in preparation of briefs for the Office of the Attorney General requesting its ruling on whether requested information may be withheld from release. 

The Legal Assistant V performs advanced (senior-level) legal assistant work. Work involves communicating with requestors and HHS system areas, reviewing documentation, redacting documents in preparation for release, interpreting internal policies and procedures, and escalating issues when needed. Works under minimal supervision, with extensive latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

The position may provide for some telework.

Essential Job Functions (EJFs):

Reviews and routes PIA requests to the appropriate HHS system area to identify, collect, and provide documents that are responsive to PIA requests. (35%)

Reviews and, as appropriate, redacts responsive documents and provides responsive documents to requestor. (35%)

Communicates with requestors for clarification and narrowing of requests. (10%)

Prepares and sends briefs to the Office of the Attorney General. (10%)

Maintains tracking of requests and other administrative work regarding requests. (5%)

Performs duties as assigned. (5%)

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs):

Knowledge of and ability to work with confidential records, files, and information.
Skill operating a computer and widely used software.

Skill performing tasks correctly and with close attention to detail. 
Ability to set priorities and goals for managing workload within limited timeframes. 
Ability to follow security policies and procedures while working with confidential records, files, or information. 
Ability to understand and comply with written and oral instructions. 
Ability to use sound judgment and work independently in a fast-paced environment.
Ability to communicate orally and in writing in a clear, effective, and diplomatic manner.

Registrations, Licensure Requirements, or Certifications:

N/A

Initial Screening Criteria:

Experience dealing successfully with complex assignments and short deadlines, with preference given to experience in an HHS agency or working with the PIA. 

Additional Information:

N/A

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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.