Policy Attorney

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 position is an attorney in the Policy Department. The Policy Department is one of seven departments in the Legal Services Division of the HHS Office of Chief Counsel (OCC). The Policy Department provides general legal advice and support to all agencies and programs of the health and human services system in their daily operations and policy matters including rule-making efforts, enforcement, legislative matters, and general agency guidance. Policy attorneys have the most day-to-day interaction with these agencies and programs and may also help them connect with attorneys in other Legal Services Division departments. During and in anticipation of legislative session, Policy attorneys provide support by assisting with bill reading, drafting, and analysis.

The position’s primary assignment is to serve on a team that provides legal support to Texas Medicaid and the Texas Children’s Health Insurance Program that serve over 4 million Texans and involve highly dynamic, consequential, and interesting areas of federal and state law. Teamwork and collaboration with other attorneys is valued, with opportunities for advancement and movement in the Legal Services Division. 

The position performs highly complex legal work involving overseeing and planning legal activities; preparing legal documents; interpreting federal and state laws and regulations; reviewing contracts, grants, data requests, and draft legislation; rendering legal advice and counsel; and participating in negotiations with federal and other state agencies and managed care organizations.  The position works under limited direction with extensive latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.  The work may include providing guidance to others.

Essential Job Functions (EJFs):

Advises HHS system clients and OCC leadership on legal matters and the drafting, interpretation, and application of agency policy; HHS and other agency regulations in the Texas Administrative Code; state law, including, but not limited to the Government Code, Human Resources Code, and Health and Safety Code; and federal law and regulation, including, but not limited to, those concerning public health and welfare. (75%)

Supports or assists in the development of strategies and programs to implement legislative, programmatic, and policy initiatives. (10%)

Reviews, analyzes, and drafts legislation that may affect HHS system programs, operations, or policy. (10%)

Attends work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned. (5%)

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs):

Knowledge of legal principles, practices, and proceedings; of state and federal laws, rules, and regulations; and of agency administrative rules and regulations.

Skill in legal research, writing, and analysis; in the use of a computer and applicable software; in using reasoning and logic; in identifying and solving complex problems; in prioritizing workloads; in mediation and negotiation; and in using judgment to identify courses of action.

Ability to plan and organize work; to conduct and advise on hearings; to prepare opinions and briefs; to prepare cases for trial; to interpret and apply laws; to communicate effectively; and to provide guidance to others.

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:

Licensed to practice law in the State of Texas. Member in good standing with the State Bar of Texas. 

Initial Screening Criteria:

Graduation from an accredited law school with a Juris Doctor (JD) degree required.

Substantial experience (at least 5 years) in legal work required.

Substantial experience in administrative law and rulemaking preferred.

Substantial experience in preparing opinions and reviewing policies related to administrative law or government law preferred.

Substantial experience in conducting research preferred.

Additional Information:

Offices are in the North Austin Complex, a beautiful new office building with covered parking and a gym with lockers and showers free of charge.  Annual CLE fees and State Bar dues are currently paid by HHSC.

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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.