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: Rules Support Specialist
Job Title: Program Specialist VI
Agency: Health & Human Services Comm
Department: POLICY & RULES OFFICE /SEPA
Posting Number: 19732
Closing Date: 08/24/2026
Posting Audience: Internal and External
Occupational Category: Management
Salary Range: $5,098.66 - $6,750.00
Pay Frequency: Monthly
Salary Group: TEXAS-B-23
Shift: Day
Additional Shift:
Telework: Eligible for Telework
Travel: Up to 5%
Regular/Temporary: Regular
Full Time/Part Time: Full time
FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Exempt
Facility Location:
Job Location City: AUSTIN
Job Location Address: 4601 W GUADALUPE ST
Other Locations:
MOS Codes: 16GX,60C0,611X,612X,63G0,641X,712X,86M0,8U000,OS,OSS,PERS,YN,YNS

Brief Job Description:

The Rules Support Specialist reports to the Director of the Rules Coordination Office in the Rules and Advisory Committees Office. Performs highly advanced consultative and technical assistance work for rules development within the Health and Human Services System (HHS System). The Rules Support Specialist drafts and edits rules in accordance with Texas Administrative Code rulemaking guidelines; conducts research and analysis to determine the need for rules; and assists System program staff in the development and writing of rules. Works with the Director, the Rules Coordination Office team, and other System staff on the development of rule packet, work plans, and timelines. Communicates with internal and external stakeholders, program and executive management and other relevant parties about rules status or emerging issues. Works under minimal supervision, with latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

Essential Job Functions (EJFs):

EJF 1. (35%) Drafts and/or edits rules in accordance with state requirements and guidelines. Develops strong working knowledge of Texas Administrative Code policies and procedures. Advises HHS System program staff on how to correctly draft rules. Coordinates with Office of the Chief/General Counsel and Chief Financial Office staff on all rule projects. Facilitates and/or participates in internal and external agency workgroups. Provides guidance and assistance to staff on requirements of the Texas Government Code’s Administrative Procedures Act and Texas Register, including timelines for achieving desired or required effective dates.

EJF 2. (25%) May act as a liaison to other program staff and other agencies concerning the rules process. Provides input, technical assistance and guidance to HHS System staff in the development and implementation of rules. Assists with negotiations and problem-solving. Keeps the director and rules team informed of activities and emerging issues. Works with the director and rules team to assess existing policies and procedures for rules development and makes recommendations for improvement.

EJF 3. (15%) Prepares and approves high quality written documents for HHS System program areas, including project updates, summaries, presentations, and other documents as needed, focusing on quality initiatives for rulemaking; and creates efficiencies where opportunities occur.

EJF 4. (10%) Works with and speaks to community and professional groups, other HHS System programs, other state agencies, legislative staff, and public stakeholders, to provide information and technical assistance, identify needs and resolve issues. Provides oral presentations and written materials as appropriate.

EJF. 5. (10%) Provides training and technical assistance and guidance to HHS System staff on the rules development process.

EJF 6. (5%) Performs other duties as assigned.

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

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs):

Knowledge of:

Rulemaking process for HHSC or other state agencies.
HHS System programs, including applicable laws and regulations preferred.

Skill in:

Project management oversight, including monitoring deadlines and compliance with policies and procedures relevant to the project.
Program and policy analysis.
Drafting and editing written documents.
Drafting rules are preferred.
Analyzing and evaluating complex program and policy issues
Performing research related to federal or state laws, regulations, and policies.
Developing interpersonal relationships, including the ability to work with people under pressure, negotiate among multiple parties, resolve conflicts, and establish and maintain effective working relationships.
Facilitating meetings and ensuring that participants meet their deliverables

Ability to:

Identify problems, evaluate alternatives, and implement effective solutions.
Communicate effectively, orally and in writing.
Set and manage priorities.
Organize and develop work plans and adhere to strict deadlines.

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:

N/A

Initial Screening Criteria:

Bachelor's degree from an accredited 4-year college or university with a major in government, political science, social work, or other relevant field of study. Experience may be substituted for education on a year-for-year basis.
Experience in researching and analyzing federal or state laws, regulations, and policies.
Experience with HHS System programs preferred.

Additional Information:

Employment offers depend on available budgeted funds. Salary will be set per budget limits, HHSC starting salary guidelines, and within the posted range.
Selected candidate will have to successfully complete any required due diligence/background and reference checks.

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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.

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