Program Management 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.

Brief Job Description:

The Program Management Specialist III is responsible for the planning, development, implementation, coordination, and oversight of strategic programs under the Texas Pharmaceutical Initiative (TPI).  This role requires a high level of initiative and expertise in managing cross-functional initiatives that align with organizational goals.  Reporting to the Deputy Executive Director of Program Strategy and Operations, the Program Management Specialist III will provide consultative support and assistance to leadership, manage complex program activities, and ensure timely delivery of impactful outcomes.

Essential Job Functions (EJFs):

EJF1. Implement and manage projects and programs throughout their life cycle, establishing goals, objectives, and performance metrics. Define program requirements and develop methodologies for measuring effectiveness. Manage program planning, including the development and documentation of processes for specific programs involving internal and external cross-functional teams focused on program delivery. (30%)

EJF2. Coordinate with co-workers, state agencies, vendors, and other stakeholders in complex, cross-functional work teams, or work directly with external stakeholders, to launch high visibility partnerships and programs. Build and maintain effective relationships with co-workers, vendors, partners, and leadership to ensure successful outcomes, contract compliance, and stakeholder satisfaction. (25%)

EJF3. Support the development of communications with stakeholders at all levels to ensure awareness, alignment, and effective management of program risks, updates, and changes. Develop and implement efficient meeting staging and facilitation to further communication. (20%)

EJF4. Develop in-depth technical and operational knowledge of managed programs. Provide consultative services and technical expertise to address program challenges and propose innovative solutions. Recommend and contribute to the creation of program standards, tools, and best practices. Identify program gaps and propose improvements or enhancements. Ensure program recommendations are made in accordance with program requirements and aligned to TPI’s strategic objectives. (15%)

EJF5. Perform related work and special assignments as assigned. (5%)

EJF6. During the legislative session, contribute to the review and analysis of legislation in coordination with Executive Staff. (5%)

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs):

Knowledge of:

• Project/program management theories and practices

Skill in:

• Project/program management, scheduling, resource allocation, financial forecasting, and business software tools
• Effective verbal and written communication.

Ability to:

• Manage multiple, complex programs simultaneously.
• Work independently with minimal to moderate supervision, as well as an openness to taking direction and learning.
• Be comfortable working in dynamic, fluid, start-up-like environments with the ability to adapt quickly to change.
• Think strategically and deliver innovative solutions to complex problems.
• Exercise sound judgment in making critical decisions.
• Convene, stage, and facilitate meetings.
• Convey technical and non-technical concepts clearly to various audiences, both orally and in writing

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:

N/A

Initial Screening Criteria:

Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university. Relevant professional experience as listed below may substitute for education on a one-to-one year basis.

Eight years of professional experience required. May include program or project management, healthcare, pharmaceutical related settings, pharmaceutical industry (e.g. drug manufacturing, pharmaceutical supply chain, Pharmacy Benefit Manager operations, pharmacy operations, clinical pharmacist, or pharmacy benefit consulting).

Eight years senior level experience preferred. Work would include oversight of complex project, programmatic deliverables, and evaluation.

Additional Information:

The Texas Pharmaceutical Initiative is a new initiative administratively attached to HHSC. Its organizational structure may change, and the position may have the opportunity to train, lead, assign, and prioritize the work of others, potentially serving in a team lead capacity.

This position maybe eligible for telework. Please note, all TPI positions are subject to state and agency telework policies in addition to the discretion of the direct supervisor and business needs.

The position may require attendance at TPI Board meetings and other in-person meetings in Austin, Texas.

The posted salary reflects the salary range allowable by state law. Any employment offer is contingent upon available budgeted funds. The offered salary will be determined in accordance with budgetary limits.

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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.