Research Specialist

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.

Intro:

Grow your career while positively impacting the lives of Texans! Our office provides a collaborative and supportive workplace culture to enhance your skills and gain experience. Our team is looking for talented, innovative and driven people with a focus on data collection, statistical analysis, reporting, and evaluation. 

The Work Measurement (WM) & Random Moment Sampling (RMS) Unit conduct work measurement and random moment time studies for the agency. Random moment time studies, timekeeping, certification systems and work measurement studies provide reporting for cost allocation, Legislative appropriations requests and distribution of agency resources.

The intern position is a temporary position that will end on August 31, 2025.

Brief Job Description:

Research specialist perform activities associated with Work Measurement (WM), Random Moment Sampling (RMS) studies, Timekeeping and Sole Source Cost Allocation Certification (SSCAC) systems for the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC). Performs advanced consultative services and technical assistance work which may include but is not limited to planning/coordinating, developing study methodologies, validating data, training participants, statistical analysis and preparing major agency federal and state reports. Troubleshoots technical issues related to system applications and portal system used for the studies and other data collection systems. Acts as the main point of contact for any related WM, RMS, timekeeping & SSCAC issues. Monitors and oversees the work of study/timekeeping participants. Consults with program, budget and accounting staff in the planning, implementation, and monitoring of studies/timekeeping. Documents work processes through flow charts and narrative. Works under limited supervision with considerable latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.  

Essential Job Functions (EJFs):

Attends work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.
Coordinates, plans, and develops Work Measurement (WM) and Random Moment (RMS) studies for HHSC programs. Maintains and monitors cost allocation systems for HHSC programs. (30%)
Communicates with others (internally or externally) to provide training, technical assistance, request/verify information, answer inquiries, address issues, resolve problems or complaints for study/timekeeping participants. (30%)
Maintains study instruments, timekeeping sheets, monthly SSCAC monthly files and training materials. (10%)
Collects and compiles data and uses statistical methods and Power Queries to analyze data for studies and other data collection systems. Also conducts quality assurance reviews on study, timekeeping & SSCAC data following unit procedures. (10%)
Coordinates and prepares the quarterly & semi-annual RMS reports, WM study reports and monthly timekeeping/SSCAC results. (5%)
Participates in planning and program review or analysis to ensure that methods, procedures, or materials comply with state and federal requirements and support the programs served. (5%)
Communicates study, timekeeping & SSCAC results to relevant HHSC program areas, accounting, and budget staff within the specified deadlines. (5%)
Serves as the subject matter expert at meetings, planning sessions and workgroups to address business processes, issues, regulations, and audits. (5%)
 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs):

Knowledge of statistical/data analysis processes, reporting and evaluation.
Skill in interpreting state and federal rules and regulations and policies.
Skill in use of Microsoft Office Suite, specifically Excel, Access, Power Point, Share Point, and Power Automate.
Skill in planning, coordinating, and monitoring projects and/or supervising the work of others.
Skill in training agency staff in individual or small group settings as related to data collection or analysis.
Ability to gather, assemble, correlate, and analyze facts and data.
Ability to prepare concise reports.
 

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:

None

Initial Screening Criteria:

Experience or skills in statistical/data analysis processes, reporting and/or evaluation.
Experience in use of Microsoft Office Suite, specifically Excel, Access, Power Point or other (i.e. Share Point, Power Automate, Forms).
Skills in planning, organizing, and coordinating projects; collecting and evaluating data; interpreting and publishing findings.
Experience in communicating effectively; and monitoring the work of others.
 

Additional Information:

Hybrid telework. 30 hours/week M-Fri (btwn hours 8-5) Internship period June 1-August 31, 2025.

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.

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.