Program Specialist VI

Date:  Aug 26, 2025
Location: 

AUSTIN, TX

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: Program Specialist VI 
Job Title: Program Specialist VI 
Agency: Health & Human Services Comm 
Department: Local Procedure Dev Support 
Posting Number: 8484 
Closing Date: 09/09/2025 
Posting Audience: Internal and External 
Occupational Category: Community and Social Services 
Salary Group: TEXAS-B-23 
Salary Range: $5,098.66 - $6,701.75 
Pay Frequency: Monthly
Shift: Day 
Additional Shift:  
Telework: Eligible for Telework 
Travel: Up to 15% 
Regular/Temporary: Regular 
Full Time/Part Time: Full time 
FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Exempt 
Facility Location:  
Job Location City: AUSTIN 
Job Location Address: 701 W 51ST ST 
Other Locations:  
MOS Codes: 16GX,60C0,611X,612X,63G0,641X,712X,86M0,86P0,88A0,88B0,8U000,OS,OSS,PERS,YN,YNS 
 
 
 

 

Brief Job Description:

The Program Specialist VI (PSVI) reports to the Local Procedure Development and Support (LPDS) Director within the Intellectual and Developmental Disability (IDD) Services Section. This position operates under minimal supervision, with significant latitude for independent judgment, and assists in implementing policies and procedures that enable people to access HHSC general revenue and Medicaid-funded community-based services and supports for individuals with IDD. Services include those provided by the Local Intellectual and Developmental Disability Authorities (LIDDAs), Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with an Intellectual Disability or Related Conditions, Home and Community-based Services (HCS), Texas Home Living (TxHmL), or other local resources.

 

The position is responsible for monitoring assigned performance measures and LIDDA responsibilities outlined in the LIDDA performance contract, Texas Administrative Code (TAC), and applicable handbooks. Serves as a subject matter expert and provides technical assistance to HHSC staff and other state agency staff, LIDDAs, and advocacy groups regarding the IDD service delivery system, LIDDA responsibilities, waiver enrollments, interest list management, and other issues that may arise. Conducts presentations or trainings and processes inquiries and complaints as assigned. Represents IDD Services in assigned internal and external workgroups and assists with the development and refinement of policy and procedures. Reviews and completes legislative analysis to identify programmatic issues or concerns and assists with assigned implementation plans for passed legislation.

 

 

Essential Job Functions (EJFs): 

  • Monitor the LIDDA performance measure for conducting HCS and TxHmL interest list biennial contacts and for the completion of the Interest List Questionnaire during the biennial contact. Tasks include monitoring system-generated reports for compliance and accuracy, developing performance reports, contacting LIDDAs to discuss performance and provide technical assistance, reporting trends to management, and developing and presenting training as needed. (25%)
  • As a subject matter expert, provide technical assistance to HHSC staff, other state agency staff, LIDDAs, and advocacy groups regarding the IDD service delivery system and LIDDA responsibilities. Tasks include participating in workgroups, developing and presenting training, and staying up to date on requirements outlined in the LIDDA performance contract, handbooks, and TAC. (25%)
  • Assist with the development and refinement of policies and procedures. Participate in cross-functional workgroups related to topics such as interest list management, slot releases, waiver enrollments, waiver renewals, contract updates, and barriers. (25%)
  • Process assigned inquiries, complaints, commissioner assignments, and legislative assignments. Tasks involve conducting research in applicable electronic systems, contacting service recipients, family members, or stakeholders; writing formal responses to management, legislative officials, and executive leadership; and logging the assignment in the tracking system. (15%)
  • Perform special assignments regarding initiatives affecting LIDDAs. On behalf of LPDS, review and complete legislative analysis to identify programmatic issues or concerns and assists with assigned implementation plans for passed legislation. (10%)

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs):  

 

Knowledge of: 

  • The Texas state system for services and supports, including waiver services, residential services, and service coordination for people with IDD.
  • LIDDA structure in Texas and its contracted roles and responsibilities.

 

Skill in: 

  • Managing multiple tasks
  • Identifying measures and indicators of program performance and interpreting data
  • Verbal and written communication
  • Critical thinking and problem-solving
  • Developing and editing documents

 

Ability to:

  • Use Microsoft Office Suite
  • Research and collect information
  • Analyze facts and apply critical thinking skills to recommend appropriate solutions
  • Document complex issues and monitor through resolution
  • Concisely and effectively communicate complex information orally and in writing
  • Train others and provide technical assistance
  • Create tracking and monitoring methods and other documents independently

 

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications: N/A

 

Initial Screening Criteria: 

Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major coursework in a field relevant to human services. Experience may be substituted for education on a year-for-year basis. Experience in the field of services for people with IDD is required. Experience with LIDDA roles and responsibilities is required. Experience with the HCS and TxHmL waiver programs, services, and supports for people with IDD is preferred. 

 

 

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.


Nearest Major Market: Austin