TVFC Policy Specialist

TX-HHSC-DSHS-DFPS • Austin, TX

2d

About The Position

Under the general supervision of the Vaccine Operations Group Manager, performs complex (journey-level) consultative services and technical assistance work with moderate latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment in the Vaccine Services Group. Assists in writing or updates the guidelines, policies, and procedures for the Texas Vaccines for Children Program (TVFC) program and monitors compliance with policies and procedures. Communicates with partners verbally and in writing regarding pediatric immunization, including influenza notifications, and updates.

Requirements

• Knowledge of the immunization program in Texas, medical terminology; the natural history of vaccine-preventable diseases; risk assessment and risk management related to vaccine-preventable diseases.
• Knowledge of state and federal policy development processes.
• Strong skills in researching, interpreting, and analyzing complex data and policies.
• Skill in identifying policy options and impacts for decision makers.
• Skill in synthesizing complex information and translating it into clear and concise policy documents.
• Strong skills in communicating verbally and in writing and presenting information publicly.
• Strong skills in analyzing and evaluating complex federal and state legislation, program, policy, and operations issues.
• Skill in developing creative and workable solutions to complex problems and policy issues.
• Skill in interpersonal relationships, including the ability to work with people under pressure, negotiate among multiple parties, resolve conflicts, and establish and maintain effective working relationships with various level personnel in governmental entities.
• Ability to manage projects, coordinate workgroups, and meetings
• Ability to collaborate and develop effective professional relationships with coworkers and stakeholders.
• Ability to prioritize time and manage multiple project deadlines.
• Ability to exercise judgment and work independently with minimum supervision.
• Ability to work cooperatively in a team environment.
• Ability to use word-processing and spreadsheet applications in a windows environment.
• Ability to evaluate and implement policies, procedures, rules or regulations.
• Bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year college or university required with major course work in public health, social services, policy, biology, or a related field. One year of full-time relevant experience may substitute for education on a year-for-year basis.
• Experience in public health, health promotion and education, health policy, and/or immunizations.
• Experience in developing written materials.
• Experience researching, interpreting and analyzing data and policies.

Responsibilities

• Assists in implementation of activities for the TVFC Policy Team, to include provider and hospital recruitment.
• Compiles and disseminate Texas Vaccines for Children (TVFC) notification letters to providers.
• Explains complex policies and procedures to providers and regional and local staff at TVFC-enrolled sites.
• Works with regional sites to ensure TVFC policies are enforced.
• Assists and contributes to the development of policies, procedures, and standards for VOG.
• Provides technical assistance to providers and regional and local health departments.
• Analyzes data collected during TVFC initiatives and ensures that appropriate recommendations for improvement are provided to the responsible entities.
• Communicates with customers verbally and in writing.
• Compiles written reports and surveys using Microsoft Excel and Word.
• Analyzes data collected during TVFC initiatives and ensures that appropriate recommendations for improvement are provided to the responsible entities.
• May conduct training for other staff on policies and procedures of TVFC.
• Participates in training and education for regional staff.
• Assists in development of recommendations to improve overall relationships between responsible entities and the TVFC policy team.
• Compiles information and submits articles for newsletters on information that is applicable to responsible entity staff or staff enrolled at TVFC sites using Microsoft Word.
• Responds to customer inquiries in writing and via the telephone.
• Explain complex policies and procedures to regional staff or staff from TVFC enrolled sites.
• Assists in the creation of materials for use statewide.
• Assists with updating and maintaining policy manuals for the TVFC program.
• Attends work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.
• Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency’s obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location.

Benefits

• DSHS offers insurance coverage and other benefits available through the State of Texas Group Benefits Plan administered by the Employee Retirement System of Texas (ERS).

What This Job Offers

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