Rules Support Specialist

TX-HHSC-DSHS-DFPS • Austin, TX

8d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Rules Support Specialist reports to the Director of the Rules Coordination Office, under the Deputy Executive Commissioner of Policy and Rules. 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, the Policy 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.

Requirements

• 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 in researching and analyzing federal or state laws, regulations, and policies.
• Knowledge of Rules process for HHSC or other state agencies.
• Skill in project management oversight, including monitoring of deadlines and compliance with policies and procedures relevant to the project.
• Skill in program and policy analysis.
• Skill in drafting and editing written documents.
• Skill in performing research.
• Skill in 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.
• Skill in analyzing and evaluating complex program and policy issues.
• Skill in facilitating meetings and ensuring that participants meet their deliverables
• Ability to Identify problems, evaluate alternatives and implement effective solutions.
• Ability to Communicate effectively, orally and in writing.
• Ability to Set and manage priorities.
• Ability to Organize and develop work plans and adhere to strict deadlines.

Nice To Haves

• HHS System programs, including applicable laws and regulations preferred.
• Skill in Drafting rules preferred.
• Experience with HHS System programs preferred.

Responsibilities

• Drafts and/or edits rules in accordance with state requirements and guidelines.
• Advises 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 meeting desired or required effective dates.
• May act as a liaison to other program staff and other agencies concerning the rules process.
• Provides input, technical assistance and guidance to staff (internal and other HHSC agencies) 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.
• Prepares and approves high quality written documents, including Medicaid and CHIP rules, project updates, summaries, presentations and other documents as needed.
• Works with and speaks to community and professional groups, other HHSC 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.
• Provides training and technical assistance and guidance to staff (internal and other HHS agencies) on the rule’s development process.
• 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.

Benefits

• comprehensive benefits package includes 100% paid employee health insurance for full-time eligible employees
• defined benefit pension plan
• generous time off benefits
• numerous opportunities for career advancement

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees