Social Worker III

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: Social Worker III 
Job Title: Social Worker III 
Agency: Health & Human Services Comm 
Department: CRS - Program Admin 
Posting Number: 9798 
Closing Date: 10/16/2025 
Posting Audience: Internal and External 
Occupational Category: Community and Social Services 
Salary Group: TEXAS-B-21 
Salary Range: $4,523.16 - $5,888.50 
Pay Frequency: Monthly
Shift: Day 
Additional Shift:  
Telework: Eligible for Telework 
Travel: Up to 40% 
Regular/Temporary: Regular 
Full Time/Part Time: Full time 
FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt 
Facility Location:  
Job Location City: AUSTIN 
Job Location Address: 701 W 51ST ST 
Other Locations:  
MOS Codes: 0149,5832,230X,42SX,4C0X1,68X,73A,HM 
 
 
 

Job Description:

Works under the direction of the Clinical Manager for the Comprehensive Rehabilitation Services (CRS) Program. The Social Worker III performs work to support the mission, goals and values of HHSC and applies critical thinking skills and sound decision making. Work performed supports rehabilitation outcomes for individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI) and/or spinal cord injury (SCI) utilizing a wraparound approach, person-centered planning and trauma informed care. Collects and analyze information to determine eligibility (e.g. medical, psychological, neuropsychological records, etc.), works collaboratively with the individual to develop a person-centered rehabilitation plan of supports designed to achieve the individuals identified goals. Provides case management, resource facilitation, continuous reassessment of the individual’s rehabilitation needs and discharge planning. Counsels the people CRS supports and their families, oversight of the treatment process with contractors to ensure timely, cost effective provision of services and individual progress toward achievement of their goals. Develops and maintains relations with community referral sources and stakeholders. Works collaboratively with staff, individuals/families to provide education, coaching, mentoring, identifies gaps in resources, and build upon strengths to assist the individual to function independently in the home and community. Applies best practices, uses available comparable benefits, and services to ensure effective use of public funds. Serves as the subject matter expert for TBI and SCI. Work is performed using HHS electronic case management system. Works independently, with minimal supervision and with latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Performs other duties as assigned and  attends work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with agency leave policy.  

Essential Job Functions:

1. Collect and analyze all information necessary to make an accurate eligibility decision (e.g. medical, psychological, school records, etc.), interview person with traumatic brain and/or spinal cord injury to complete a comprehensive assessment utilizing person centered practices and a trauma informed care approach to make accurate eligibility decisions.  (10%)

2.  Develop and implement person-centered rehabilitation plans for people supported by CRS which identify the person’s short term and long-term goals and objectives regarding their rehabilitation, treatment and actions required to achieve the goals and objectives. (10%)

3. Utilizing the wraparound model, coordinate and approve the purchase of goods, services and supports including rehabilitation, durable medical equipment and ancillary services. Provide oversight of the treatment process with staff and community providers to ensure timely, use of comparable benefits, cost effective provision of services and supports that aids in progress toward achievement of their identified goals. This includes collaborating with the treatment team, discussing their ongoing rehabilitation and other needs, assessing and reassessing the individual’s needs, support systems and community resources. (25%)

4. Provides case management, resource facilitation and discharge planning to ensure continuity of care and all identified needs are addressed prior to case closure. A person’s discharge plan will identify how they will continue to receive needed supports, support systems, and community resources after case closure. (20%)
   
   
5. Provides education, guidance, self-advocacy and support to persons with a traumatic brain and/or spinal cord injury and their families throughout their participation in the program. Provide technical assistance to providers and community providers regarding policies, procedures and the provision of services. (10%)

6. Utilizes both written and verbal communication with a variety of internal and external stakeholders to maintain a positive working relationship and ensure a cohesive link in the service delivery system. Documents all case related actions and communication in the electronic case management system. Consults with supervisor on a regular basis to communicate case related issues/needs. (10%)

7. Responds to inquiries from HHSC staff, service providers, other state agencies and the general public regarding programs, adhering to administrative regulations, policies, and procedures. Provide technical assistance to staff and community providers to ensure implementation of policies and procedures.  Participates in program policy and procedure development, contract monitoring, program evaluation, and budget planning. (5%)

8. Serves as a subject matter expert on traumatic brain injury and traumatic spinal cord injury to internal and external stakeholders, person’s supported, and their families. Maintain a working knowledge of community resources and make referrals as necessary to ensure appropriate use of state funds. (5%)

9. Performs other duties as assigned to support the Comprehensive Rehabilitation Services program’s mission and goals. (5%)
    

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications: None

Knowledge Skills and Abilities.

Knowledge of:
State and Federal programs, federal regulations and guidelines 
Rehabilitation and social services programs

Assistive technology for individuals with TBI and SCI

Available resources and comparable benefits

Behavioral strategies for individuals with disabilities

Skills in:
Applying critical thinking and problem-solving skills to address barriers    

encountered throughout the rehabilitation process

Case and caseload management

Engaging the individual in an active and meaningful partnership throughout the rehabilitation process
Effectively applying the rehabilitation process 
Gathering, evaluating and analyzing information used in the rehabilitation process 
Operating a computer in a windows environment 
Understanding and applying policies and procedures 
Effectively conducting interview and assessments to determine eligibility and develop a treatment plan based on policy 
Counseling techniques used in the rehabilitation process 
Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships 
Providing effective case management for service delivery 

Ability to:
Think creatively and support creative thinking in others 
Plan, organize and achieve goals 
Manage multiple priorities and time effectively 
Motivate individuals and/or family members to achieve treatment goals to live independently. 
Plan, organize and present information effectively both orally and in writing 
Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to maximize available resources and ensure continuity of care 
 

Initial Criteria

• Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major coursework in social work, counseling or health and human services related field
• Two years of experience with providing case management, assessing needs, and developing treatment plans
• Experience working with individuals with traumatic brain injury, traumatic spinal cord injury or other disabilities

Preferred Criteria:
 

• Master’s degree in social work, counseling or health and human services related field
• Five years of experience in providing case management, assessing needs and developing treatment plans for individuals.
• Three years of experience working with individuals with traumatic brain injury, traumatic spinal cord injury or other disabilities
• Experience working in rehabilitation services and/or health and human services related field  

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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.