Program Specialist VI

TX-HHSC-DSHS-DFPS • Austin, TX

65d • Hybrid

About The Position

As part of the IDD Services section, this position performs highly advanced (senior-level) work as a subject matter expert for services offered by LIDDAs. This position collaborates with internal divisions of HHSC to provide content knowledge on the provision of LIDDA services, including service coordination for the HCS, TxHmL, CFC, and General Revenue programs. The position provides consultative services and technical assistance to program staff, governmental agencies, community organizations, and the general public to resolve problems, identify training needs, and discuss program effectiveness. The position uses knowledge and experience related to the LIDDA performance contract, Texas Administrative Code rules, LIDDA handbooks, and applicable state and federal regulations. The position develops and revises training materials and provides training or presentations on assigned initiatives. The subject matter expert serves on cross-functional workgroups as a representative of IDD Services.

Requirements

• Knowledge of the Texas state system for services and supports for people with IDD, especially the HCS and TxHmL waiver programs, Community First Choice, and service coordination.
• Knowledge of LIDDA roles and responsibilities and related state and federal laws, rules, policies, and requirements.
• Skill and ability to work with a wide variety of agencies, individuals, providers, and advocacy groups; analyze and solve problems; research and prepare reports; and organize and present information effectively.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Advanced computer skills, especially with programs such as Microsoft Office suite.
• A minimum of two years of direct experience working with LIDDAs.
• Experience working directly or indirectly in the field of services for people with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD).
• Experience with LIDDA's roles and responsibilities.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.
• Experience working as a service coordinator or program manager at a LIDDA.

Responsibilities

• Responds to complaints and inquiries from internal and external stakeholders received in the LIDDA Service Coordination shared mailbox and as assigned by the manager or deputy associate commissioner.
• Provides technical assistance to HHSC staff and other state agency staff, LIDDAs, and advocacy and provider groups regarding the IDD service delivery system, contractual requirements, program rules, and service delivery development.
• Monitors the LIDDA Service Coordination mailbox daily, collaborates with other program areas as needed, researches answers using TAC rules, HHSC handbooks, and the LIDDA performance contract, and responds within two to three business days.
• Enters summary of complaints and inquiries in HEART and closes out upon resolution.
• Provides advanced consultation as a subject matter expert in identified areas of LIDDA service provision, including service coordination and Community First Choice non-waiver.
• Assists in the development and refinement of policies and procedures for initiatives related to IDD services by lending subject matter expertise to internal workgroups revising TAC rules or handbooks and working directly with rule writers on the Program Services unit.
• Represents IDD Services in cross-functional workgroups implementing statewide changes in service delivery practices, requirements, or structures.
• Has primary responsibility for Coordination 101, a five-module training for new service coordinators, including overseeing revisions and leading workgroups as needed.
• Processes and responds to inquiries and complaints related to the training, including keeping track of requested revisions in an Excel spreadsheet.
• Develops and maintains a timeline for completing revisions.
• Reviews HEART and collaborates with IDD Services and PASRR units unit to identify common issues that may necessitate targeted trainings for LIDDA staff.
• Leads the development of and revisions to additional trainings as assigned by the manager.
• Presents to LIDDA staff during monthly webinars as assigned.
• Provides targeted technical assistance to LIDDA leadership and service coordinators in response to concerns about their adherence to contract, rule, program handbook, or other HHSC policy requirements.
• Notifies the LIDDA in writing of the deficiency, cites the source of the requirement, and requests corrective action within a specified time frame.
• Collaborates with IDD Contracts Management Unit and follows approved protocol to address issues of noncompliance or under performance by LIDDAs.
• Provides support to LIDDA staff in problem-solving the concern and addressing causality factors.
• Performs special assignments regarding initiatives affecting LIDDAs and 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