What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Maximum Security position at Texas Health and Human Services?
Date: May 18, 2026
Location:
VERNON, TX
Join the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and be part of a team committed to creating a positive impact in the lives of fellow Texans. At HHSC, your contributions matter, and we support you at each stage of your life and work journey. Our comprehensive benefits package includes 100% paid employee health insurance for full-time eligible employees, a defined benefit pension plan, generous time off benefits, numerous opportunities for career advancement and more. Explore more details on the Benefits of Working at HHS webpage.
Functional Title: Director of Maximum SecurityJob Title: Program Supervisor IVAgency: Health & Human Services CommDepartment: Forensic SecurityPosting Number: 17129Closing Date: 06/01/2026Posting Audience: Internal and ExternalOccupational Category: Protective ServicesSalary Range: $4,523.16 - $7,253.83Pay Frequency: Monthly
Salary Group: TEXAS-B-21Shift: Day
Additional Shift
Telework: Not Eligible for TeleworkTravel: Up to 5%Regular/Temporary: RegularFull Time/Part Time: Full timeFLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Exempt
Facility Location: Vernon State Hospital
Job Location City: VERNON
Job Location Address: 4730 COLLEGE DR
Other Locations: Vernon
MOS Codes: 0203,0207,0302,0370,0520,0602,0802,1802,1803,2340,5502,6302,6502,7202,7208,7210,7220,7502,8005,8858
9702,16GX,60C0,611X,612X,63G0,641X,712X,86M0,86P0,8U000,9G100,BOSN,ELC,ISS,MAT,MED,MLES,MSSD,MSSE,MS
SR,OSS,WEPS
Brief Job Description
Would you thrive in an environment where you learn and grow personally and professionally all while helping make a positive impact on people’s lives? Do you appreciate being around others like yourself who are dependable, trustworthy, hard workers who believe in the value of teamwork? HSCS is dedicated to building an atmosphere where employees feel valued and supported while providing specialized care for Texans in need. HSCS is comprised of ten psychiatric hospitals, two youth residential treatment facilities, and thirteen state supported living centers. The psychiatric hospitals are a hub of excellence for forensic mental health and complex psychiatric care, with all facilities accredited by The Joint Commission. They provide state-of-the-art treatment that is recovery-oriented and science-based. If providing hope and healing through compassionate, innovative, and individualized care interests you, we welcome your application for the position below.
Program Supervisor IV (Director of Maximum Security) works a day shift from Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM in the Security Department of Vernon State Hospital. The Director of Maximum-Security reports directly to the Assistant Superintendent and is responsible for administering all the operations of the Vernon State Hospital Security Department. Performs complex managerial work directing and coordinating all security activities. Supervises management staff to carry out the Mission of the Security Department. Responsible for the fiscal and administrative management of the Maximum-Security Department resources. Implements and administers a comprehensive Security program to ensure the safety and wellbeing of individuals, employees, and the public, protects state and personal property and prevents unauthorized departures of individuals served. Coordinates investigations as required. Serves on the Quality Improvement Council (QIC) working with other members of the hospital’s key leadership team in establishing organization goals, planning, and implementing quality care as well as contributing to planning processes related to resource allocation and distribution. The Director of Security is on call 24 hours a day or assures a subordinate is available to call. The Director of Security participates in hospital or HSCS committees as requested. The Director of Security serves as a liaison with law enforcement agencies in the community. Operates the Security Department, ensuring compliance with Vernon State Hospital standards, Security Department policy and procedures, Joint Commission, IOP and Life Safety codes. Maintains a current Security Management Plan that describes the department, establishes goals, objectives and standards to guide the direction of the department, and measures and improves performance. Attends work on a regular basis and may be required to work a specific shift schedule or, at times, even a rotating schedule, extended shift and/or overtime in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned. Measures and monitors performance improvement and other data. Reports are presented in a manner useful for analysis and problem-solving. In formal data reports, data is presented in tables and graphs as appropriate; data is analyzed using statistical process control; identifies patterns, causes, and/or conclusions based on data analysis; and action plans are developed for undesirable data as applicable. Addresses problems related to attendance, job performance and conduct in a manner that is consistent with the Performance and Conduct Management System; remembering that the goals of PCM are to correct problems and retain employees; and to use PCM as a management tool to promote good morale and performance efficiency. Applying concepts through counseling sessions, written documentation aimed at problem solving while maintaining the dignity and self-respect of individuals involved. Ensures that all employees under chain of command have a current position description and performance evaluation and are current with required training to adhere with established agency and Human Resource requirements. Provides leadership and operational oversight for the Clinical Security Officer positions by ensuring staffing, training, and performance standards across all areas of the hospital. Coordinates with nursing, clinical, and administrative teams to align CSO duties with patient safety needs and maximum-security requirements. Coordinates investigations on any issue, which poses a threat to the security of Vernon State Hospital (patients, employees, or visitors) to ensure a secure environment for the hospital and the public. Maintains a current policy and procedure manual to facilitate the organized, efficient, and effective operation of the Security Department and provide a resource for staff to reference information. At the request of the Superintendent, assists in executive and senior level administrative matters such as program design; systems analysis; program evaluations and/or evaluations of facility policies and procedures; serves on assigned task forces. Manages, implements, and continuously improves the facility's Workplace Violence Program by developing policies, conducting risk assessments, analyzing incident trends, and coordinating multidisciplinary prevention efforts. 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.
Essential Job Functions (EJFs)
Attends work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.
Operates the Security Department, ensuring compliance with Vernon State Hospital standards, Security Department policy and procedures, Joint Commission, IOP and Life Safety codes. Implements and maintains a current Security Management Plan that describes the department, establishes goals, objectives and standards to guide the direction of the department, and measures and improve performance. Fiscally manages program resources in a manner to meet the department goals and provide support services in a cost-efficient manner. (30%)
Addresses problems related to attendance, job performance and conduct in a manner that is consistent with the Performance and Conduct Management System; remembering that the goals of PCM are to correct problems and retain employees; and to use PCM as a management tool to promote good morale and performance efficiency. Applying concepts through counseling sessions, written documentation aimed at problem solving while maintaining the dignity and self-respect of individuals involved. Ensures that all employees under chain of command have a current position description and performance evaluation and are current with required training to adhere with established agency and Human Resource requirements. Provides leadership and operational oversight for the Clinical Security Officer positions by ensuring staffing, training, and performance standards across all areas of the hospital. Coordinates with nursing, clinical, and administrative teams to align CSO duties with patient safety needs and maximum-security requirements. (25%)
Coordinates investigations into any issue which poses a threat to the security of Vernon State Hospital (patients, employees, or visitors) to ensure a secure environment for the hospital and the public. At the request of the Superintendent, assists in executive and senior level administrative matters such as program design; systems analysis; program evaluations and/or evaluations of facility policies and procedures; serves on assigned task forces. Serves on the Quality Improvement Council (QIC) and other workgroups as assigned. (20%)
Measures and monitors performance improvement and other data. Reports are presented in a manner useful for analysis and problem-solving. In formal data reports; data is presented in tables and graphs as appropriate; data is analyzed using statistical process control; identifies patterns, causes, and/or conclusions based on data analysis; and action plans are developed for undesirable data as applicable. (15%)
Attends work on a regular basis and may be required to work a specific shift schedule or, at times, even a rotating schedule, extended shift and/or overtime 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. (10%)
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.
Knowledge, Skills And Abilities (KSAs)
Must be skilled in the following areas:
Knowledge of local, state, and federal laws and regulations relevant to a business function, division, or department; and of the principles and practices of public administration and management.
Knowledge of Joint Commission and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Service standards.
Ability to manage business function, division, or department activities; to establish goals and objectives; to devise solutions to administrative problems; to develop and evaluate administrative policies and procedures; to prepare reports; to communicate effectively; and to plan, assign, and supervise the work of others.
Skill in using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Skill in communicating both in writing and orally.
Excellent writing skills and ability to prepare reports, policies, procedures
Ability to prioritize and manage tasks independently.
Ability to demonstrate a high level of discretion and decision-making autonomy when addressing urgent, sensitive, and complex security matters.
Working knowledge of Code of Criminal Procedure, Mental Health commitment procedures/processes.
Knowledge of current issues in forensic mental health law and programming.
Knowledge of, and ability to apply the principles of recovery and trauma informed care in service of psychiatric inpatients.
Registrations, Licensure Requirements Or Certifications
Must possess a valid Texas driver's license or obtain it no later than 90 days after hire date. Applicants with an out-of-state driver's license must provide an original certified driving record from the state of driving licensure. Eligible driving record required based on HHSC Fleet Management policy.
Initial Screening Criteria
Associate degree from an accredited college is required.
Supervisory Experience.
5 Years of Experience Leading a Security department.
Experience writing policy, procedures, reports, or plans.
Experience with one or more of the following: Security, Emergency Management, Life Safety Code, Hazardous Materials Management, and Medical Equipment Management.
Additional Information
Applicants must pass a fingerprint criminal background check, pre-employment drug screen, and registry checks including the Client Abuse/Neglect Reporting System (CANRS), Nurse Aid, Medication Aide and Employee Misconduct, List of Excluded Individuals/Entities (LEIE). Males between the ages of 18-25 must be registered with the Selective Service.
All applicants must be at least 18 years of age to be considered for employment at a state-operated facility. Waco and Terrell Center for Youth applicants must be 21 years of age.
Flexibility in work hours may be required for this position. The position may be required to work overtime and/or extended hours.
Compliance with HHSC immunization policy and state hospital operating procedures related to immunizations is required. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, healthcare workers are at significant risk for acquiring or transmitting hepatitis B, measles, mumps, rubella, varicella (chicken pox), tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), and influenza. All these diseases are vaccine preventable. Vaccines may be provided. As a result, state hospital policy requires employees be vaccinated according to their level of contact with individuals. In the event you choose to not be immunized for the influenza virus, you may be required to wear a mask and take other protective measures.
Review our Tips for Success when applying for jobs at DFPS, DSHS and HHSC.
Active Duty, Military, Reservists, Guardsmen, And Veterans
Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information please see the Texas State Auditor’s Job Descriptions, Military Crosswalk and Military Crosswalk Guide at Texas State Auditor's Office - Job Descriptions.
ADA Accommodations
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHSC and DSHS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.
Pre-Employment Checks And Work Eligibility
Depending on the program area and position requirements, applicants selected for hire may be required to pass background and other due diligence checks.
HHSC uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Download the I-9 Form
Telework Disclaimer
This position may be eligible for telework. Please note, all HHS positions are subject to state and agency telework policies in addition to the discretion of the direct supervisor and business needs.
Nearest Major Market: Wichita Falls
Location:
VERNON, TX
Join the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and be part of a team committed to creating a positive impact in the lives of fellow Texans. At HHSC, your contributions matter, and we support you at each stage of your life and work journey. Our comprehensive benefits package includes 100% paid employee health insurance for full-time eligible employees, a defined benefit pension plan, generous time off benefits, numerous opportunities for career advancement and more. Explore more details on the Benefits of Working at HHS webpage.
Functional Title: Director of Maximum SecurityJob Title: Program Supervisor IVAgency: Health & Human Services CommDepartment: Forensic SecurityPosting Number: 17129Closing Date: 06/01/2026Posting Audience: Internal and ExternalOccupational Category: Protective ServicesSalary Range: $4,523.16 - $7,253.83Pay Frequency: Monthly
Salary Group: TEXAS-B-21Shift: Day
Additional Shift
Telework: Not Eligible for TeleworkTravel: Up to 5%Regular/Temporary: RegularFull Time/Part Time: Full timeFLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Exempt
Facility Location: Vernon State Hospital
Job Location City: VERNON
Job Location Address: 4730 COLLEGE DR
Other Locations: Vernon
MOS Codes: 0203,0207,0302,0370,0520,0602,0802,1802,1803,2340,5502,6302,6502,7202,7208,7210,7220,7502,8005,8858
9702,16GX,60C0,611X,612X,63G0,641X,712X,86M0,86P0,8U000,9G100,BOSN,ELC,ISS,MAT,MED,MLES,MSSD,MSSE,MS
SR,OSS,WEPS
Brief Job Description
Would you thrive in an environment where you learn and grow personally and professionally all while helping make a positive impact on people’s lives? Do you appreciate being around others like yourself who are dependable, trustworthy, hard workers who believe in the value of teamwork? HSCS is dedicated to building an atmosphere where employees feel valued and supported while providing specialized care for Texans in need. HSCS is comprised of ten psychiatric hospitals, two youth residential treatment facilities, and thirteen state supported living centers. The psychiatric hospitals are a hub of excellence for forensic mental health and complex psychiatric care, with all facilities accredited by The Joint Commission. They provide state-of-the-art treatment that is recovery-oriented and science-based. If providing hope and healing through compassionate, innovative, and individualized care interests you, we welcome your application for the position below.
Program Supervisor IV (Director of Maximum Security) works a day shift from Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM in the Security Department of Vernon State Hospital. The Director of Maximum-Security reports directly to the Assistant Superintendent and is responsible for administering all the operations of the Vernon State Hospital Security Department. Performs complex managerial work directing and coordinating all security activities. Supervises management staff to carry out the Mission of the Security Department. Responsible for the fiscal and administrative management of the Maximum-Security Department resources. Implements and administers a comprehensive Security program to ensure the safety and wellbeing of individuals, employees, and the public, protects state and personal property and prevents unauthorized departures of individuals served. Coordinates investigations as required. Serves on the Quality Improvement Council (QIC) working with other members of the hospital’s key leadership team in establishing organization goals, planning, and implementing quality care as well as contributing to planning processes related to resource allocation and distribution. The Director of Security is on call 24 hours a day or assures a subordinate is available to call. The Director of Security participates in hospital or HSCS committees as requested. The Director of Security serves as a liaison with law enforcement agencies in the community. Operates the Security Department, ensuring compliance with Vernon State Hospital standards, Security Department policy and procedures, Joint Commission, IOP and Life Safety codes. Maintains a current Security Management Plan that describes the department, establishes goals, objectives and standards to guide the direction of the department, and measures and improves performance. Attends work on a regular basis and may be required to work a specific shift schedule or, at times, even a rotating schedule, extended shift and/or overtime in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned. Measures and monitors performance improvement and other data. Reports are presented in a manner useful for analysis and problem-solving. In formal data reports, data is presented in tables and graphs as appropriate; data is analyzed using statistical process control; identifies patterns, causes, and/or conclusions based on data analysis; and action plans are developed for undesirable data as applicable. Addresses problems related to attendance, job performance and conduct in a manner that is consistent with the Performance and Conduct Management System; remembering that the goals of PCM are to correct problems and retain employees; and to use PCM as a management tool to promote good morale and performance efficiency. Applying concepts through counseling sessions, written documentation aimed at problem solving while maintaining the dignity and self-respect of individuals involved. Ensures that all employees under chain of command have a current position description and performance evaluation and are current with required training to adhere with established agency and Human Resource requirements. Provides leadership and operational oversight for the Clinical Security Officer positions by ensuring staffing, training, and performance standards across all areas of the hospital. Coordinates with nursing, clinical, and administrative teams to align CSO duties with patient safety needs and maximum-security requirements. Coordinates investigations on any issue, which poses a threat to the security of Vernon State Hospital (patients, employees, or visitors) to ensure a secure environment for the hospital and the public. Maintains a current policy and procedure manual to facilitate the organized, efficient, and effective operation of the Security Department and provide a resource for staff to reference information. At the request of the Superintendent, assists in executive and senior level administrative matters such as program design; systems analysis; program evaluations and/or evaluations of facility policies and procedures; serves on assigned task forces. Manages, implements, and continuously improves the facility's Workplace Violence Program by developing policies, conducting risk assessments, analyzing incident trends, and coordinating multidisciplinary prevention efforts. 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.
Essential Job Functions (EJFs)
Attends work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.
Operates the Security Department, ensuring compliance with Vernon State Hospital standards, Security Department policy and procedures, Joint Commission, IOP and Life Safety codes. Implements and maintains a current Security Management Plan that describes the department, establishes goals, objectives and standards to guide the direction of the department, and measures and improve performance. Fiscally manages program resources in a manner to meet the department goals and provide support services in a cost-efficient manner. (30%)
Addresses problems related to attendance, job performance and conduct in a manner that is consistent with the Performance and Conduct Management System; remembering that the goals of PCM are to correct problems and retain employees; and to use PCM as a management tool to promote good morale and performance efficiency. Applying concepts through counseling sessions, written documentation aimed at problem solving while maintaining the dignity and self-respect of individuals involved. Ensures that all employees under chain of command have a current position description and performance evaluation and are current with required training to adhere with established agency and Human Resource requirements. Provides leadership and operational oversight for the Clinical Security Officer positions by ensuring staffing, training, and performance standards across all areas of the hospital. Coordinates with nursing, clinical, and administrative teams to align CSO duties with patient safety needs and maximum-security requirements. (25%)
Coordinates investigations into any issue which poses a threat to the security of Vernon State Hospital (patients, employees, or visitors) to ensure a secure environment for the hospital and the public. At the request of the Superintendent, assists in executive and senior level administrative matters such as program design; systems analysis; program evaluations and/or evaluations of facility policies and procedures; serves on assigned task forces. Serves on the Quality Improvement Council (QIC) and other workgroups as assigned. (20%)
Measures and monitors performance improvement and other data. Reports are presented in a manner useful for analysis and problem-solving. In formal data reports; data is presented in tables and graphs as appropriate; data is analyzed using statistical process control; identifies patterns, causes, and/or conclusions based on data analysis; and action plans are developed for undesirable data as applicable. (15%)
Attends work on a regular basis and may be required to work a specific shift schedule or, at times, even a rotating schedule, extended shift and/or overtime 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. (10%)
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.
Knowledge, Skills And Abilities (KSAs)
Must be skilled in the following areas:
Knowledge of local, state, and federal laws and regulations relevant to a business function, division, or department; and of the principles and practices of public administration and management.
Knowledge of Joint Commission and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Service standards.
Ability to manage business function, division, or department activities; to establish goals and objectives; to devise solutions to administrative problems; to develop and evaluate administrative policies and procedures; to prepare reports; to communicate effectively; and to plan, assign, and supervise the work of others.
Skill in using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Skill in communicating both in writing and orally.
Excellent writing skills and ability to prepare reports, policies, procedures
Ability to prioritize and manage tasks independently.
Ability to demonstrate a high level of discretion and decision-making autonomy when addressing urgent, sensitive, and complex security matters.
Working knowledge of Code of Criminal Procedure, Mental Health commitment procedures/processes.
Knowledge of current issues in forensic mental health law and programming.
Knowledge of, and ability to apply the principles of recovery and trauma informed care in service of psychiatric inpatients.
Registrations, Licensure Requirements Or Certifications
Must possess a valid Texas driver's license or obtain it no later than 90 days after hire date. Applicants with an out-of-state driver's license must provide an original certified driving record from the state of driving licensure. Eligible driving record required based on HHSC Fleet Management policy.
Initial Screening Criteria
Associate degree from an accredited college is required.
Supervisory Experience.
5 Years of Experience Leading a Security department.
Experience writing policy, procedures, reports, or plans.
Experience with one or more of the following: Security, Emergency Management, Life Safety Code, Hazardous Materials Management, and Medical Equipment Management.
Additional Information
Applicants must pass a fingerprint criminal background check, pre-employment drug screen, and registry checks including the Client Abuse/Neglect Reporting System (CANRS), Nurse Aid, Medication Aide and Employee Misconduct, List of Excluded Individuals/Entities (LEIE). Males between the ages of 18-25 must be registered with the Selective Service.
All applicants must be at least 18 years of age to be considered for employment at a state-operated facility. Waco and Terrell Center for Youth applicants must be 21 years of age.
Flexibility in work hours may be required for this position. The position may be required to work overtime and/or extended hours.
Compliance with HHSC immunization policy and state hospital operating procedures related to immunizations is required. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, healthcare workers are at significant risk for acquiring or transmitting hepatitis B, measles, mumps, rubella, varicella (chicken pox), tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), and influenza. All these diseases are vaccine preventable. Vaccines may be provided. As a result, state hospital policy requires employees be vaccinated according to their level of contact with individuals. In the event you choose to not be immunized for the influenza virus, you may be required to wear a mask and take other protective measures.
Review our Tips for Success when applying for jobs at DFPS, DSHS and HHSC.
Active Duty, Military, Reservists, Guardsmen, And Veterans
Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position. For more information please see the Texas State Auditor’s Job Descriptions, Military Crosswalk and Military Crosswalk Guide at Texas State Auditor's Office - Job Descriptions.
ADA Accommodations
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHSC and DSHS agencies will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747. If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodation to participate in the interview process, please notify the person scheduling the interview.
Pre-Employment Checks And Work Eligibility
Depending on the program area and position requirements, applicants selected for hire may be required to pass background and other due diligence checks.
HHSC uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Download the I-9 Form
Telework Disclaimer
This position may be eligible for telework. Please note, all HHS positions are subject to state and agency telework policies in addition to the discretion of the direct supervisor and business needs.
Nearest Major Market: Wichita Falls
Salary : $4,523 - $7,254