Administrative Assistant

Texas Health & Human Services Commission • Houston, TX

7d • $2,694 - $3,405 • Onsite

About The Position

The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) Administrative Assistant provides administrative support to a unit supervisor and staff, interacting routinely with DFPS staff and the general public. The position is based in Houston and is not eligible for telework. Travel may be required up to 25%. The regular schedule is a day shift, although the role may require work outside the normal schedule when assisting caseworkers with children without placement; overtime compensation may be earned in those circumstances.

Administrative Assistants may assist DFPS caseworkers in supervising children without placement, primarily ages 10 to 17, during stays at an office or community location. This support includes helping monitor children and ensure their needs are met in areas such as safety, food, hygiene, education, and recreation.

The role requires regular attendance, respect for cultural diversity, and successful completion of applicable background and driver’s record checks. The position is nonexempt and full-time.

Requirements

• High school graduation or equivalent.
• One year of full-time administrative support, general office, clerical, secretarial, or Texas Department of Family and Protective Services experience. Thirty semester hours from an accredited college or university may substitute for the required experience on a year-for-year basis.
• Knowledge of computers.
• Skill in using Microsoft Works or a Windows environment.
• Skill in working in an office that supports several staff members.
• Ability to handle multiple assignments effectively in a dynamic environment.
• Must pass a background check and, if applicable, a driver’s record check.
• Must comply with applicable cybersecurity and communications-system usage policies and related training requirements.
• Must provide documentation establishing identity and authorization to work in the United States.

Responsibilities

• Enter data into IMPACT and other electronic programs and systems.
• Answer and screen telephone inquiries, take and route messages, and record intake information for referral to caseworkers.
• Prepare and maintain statistical reports, leave and personnel records, case control systems, case records, and related unit files.
• Serve as the unit timekeeper and process purchase orders as directed.
• Type correspondence, forms, narratives, travel vouchers, meeting notes, performance evaluations, and other unit documents, and file related documents.
• Provide program and agency information and make referrals to community resources as appropriate.
• Greet visitors, respond to general questions, and direct callers to the proper location.
• Perform other duties as assigned and required to maintain unit operations.
• Promote and demonstrate respect for cultural diversity among coworkers and work-related contacts.
• Attend work regularly in accordance with agency leave policy.
• When required, assist DFPS caseworkers with monitoring children without placement and ensuring their safety and needs are met during office or community stays.

Benefits

• 100% paid health insurance for the employee and 50% paid health insurance for eligible family members.
• Retirement plans that provide lifetime monthly payments after five years of state service, with options to contribute to 401(k) and 457 plans.
• Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave.
• Optional dental, vision, and life insurance at rates described as lower than most private plans.
• Flexible spending accounts for health and dependent care.
• Employee discounts on items and services such as gym memberships, electronics, and entertainment.
• May qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED