Policy and Support Specialist (Program Specialist III)

Texas Education Agency • Austin, TX

349d

About The Position

The Standards and Programs Department is responsible for several critical bodies of work that advance TEA's mission, including curriculum support, college, career, and military preparation, and early childhood education. This position reports to the Associate Commissioner of the department and performs complex (journey-level) consultative services and technical assistance work to support the State Board of Education (SBOE), and staff members in the department by coordinating preparation of SBOE agenda items, serving as the department administrative rules coordinator and public information request coordinator, and assisting with various projects, as needed. The Policy and Administrative Support Specialist also provides administrative support to the associate commissioner by assisting with coordination of activities such as bill analysis during legislative sessions, scheduling, and meeting coordination. Flexible work location within the state of Texas may be considered for qualified candidates.

Requirements

• Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university
• At least one (1) year of experience in an administrative role. Experience working at a state agency preferred
• Skill in effective and appropriate use of technology including skill in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams, as well as common webinar tools such as Zoom
• Demonstrated skill in maintaining databases and tracking systems including Microsoft Excel and SmartSheet
• Prior experience preparing detailed documents and reports
• Strong prioritization and time management skills with ability to organize and complete multiple projects simultaneously to meet deadlines
• Effective and professional verbal and written communication skills and an ability to carefully review and edit professional written work
• Ability to foster effective working relationships with a variety of individuals and groups, internal and external to TEA and to use professional discretion to maintain confidential information
• Familiarity with Texas Education Code and Texas Administrative Code
• Familiarity with the state legislative process
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• A desire to self-reflect, give/receive feedback, and continuously improve

Responsibilities

• Assists with legislative activities including coordinating with the Governmental Relations division to track and ensure completion of legislative requests
• Serves as department's Public Information Request (PIR) and Commissioner's correspondence coordinator and ensures all requests are completed within established timelines
• Serves as department rules coordinator and ensures all SBOE and Commissioner rule items are prepared accurately and routed for review within designated timelines
• Provides support for the State Board of Education (SBOE) activities including coordination of department item preparation, support during meetings, and coordination and compilation of committee minutes; and supports TEKS review and revision activities as necessary

Benefits

• Starting salary between the posted minimum and the average pay of employees in their same classification
• Offers will be commensurate with the candidate's experience and qualifications
• Consideration of internal pay equity for agency staff who perform similar duties and have similar qualifications

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Industry: Administration of Human Resource Programs
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree