Lead Policy Advisor

Lead Policy Advisor Date: Jan 6, 2026 Location: AUSTIN, 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: Lead Policy Advisor Job Title: Policy Analyst III Agency: Health & Human Services Comm Department: Pharmacy Benefits Mgmt SPMP Posting Number: 12165 Closing Date: 01/20/2026 Posting Audience: Internal and External Occupational Category: Healthcare Support Salary Group: TEXAS-B-25 Salary Range: $5,797.66 - $8,500.00 Pay Frequency: Monthly Shift: Day Additional Shift: Telework: Eligible for Telework Travel: Up to 10% Regular/Temporary: Regular Full Time/Part Time: Full time FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt Facility Location: Job Location City: AUSTIN Job Location Address: 701 W 51ST ST Other Locations: MOS Codes: 2611,8058,8060,8848,16KX,1D7X1,32EXC,3D0X4,611X,612X,63A,63AX,641X,712X,8K000,BU,CE,EA,SEI16 Job Description: The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) Medicaid and CHIP Services (MCS) Department seeks a highly qualified candidate to fill the position of Lead Policy Advisor (Policy Analyst III). This position is hired by and reports to the Director of Policy and Project Management in the Vendor Drug Program (VDP). VDP is driven by its mission to deliver quality, cost-effective outpatient drug benefits to Texans. This position makes a significant contribution to VDP’s mission by performing highly complex, senior-level policy analysis work. Duties include managing complex drug and pharmacy policy analysis projects, including coordinating efforts across multiple teams and stakeholders; preparing communications for and collaborating with external stakeholders; and contributing to the development and execution of VDP’s policy strategies. This position leads bill analysis for VDP during legislative session and responses to legislative inquiries throughout the year. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment that emphasizes: excellence through high professional standards and personal accountability, self-motivation and initiative, curiosity to continuously grow and learn, critical thinking for effective execution, teamwork to achieve goals, personal and professional integrity, and a positive attitude. This position will allow for constant learning opportunities and a chance to impact the healthcare provided to individuals receiving Medicaid services. VDP offers a collaborative and supportive working environment. This position is eligible for telework dependent on agency and division policy. This position is located in the Austin area, and candidates must live in the Austin area. Essential Job Functions: (40%) Performs highly complex policy analysis, development, and implementation, including project management, from inception to completion. This includes providing highly advanced (senior-level) research, analysis, evaluation, and technical assistance work for VDP, using and exercising advanced knowledge and assessment of federal and state laws and regulations related to the drug benefit. For policy projects, forms and leads collaborative efforts across the agency and with external stakeholders with the goal of addressing complex issues and developing and implementing successful policies. Develops and presents policy proposals, reports, and recommendations for agency leadership. (25%) Leads the VDP policy team in collaborating with external stakeholders. This involves leading the ongoing efforts to prepare for the quarterly stakeholder meetings, including identifying topics and coordinating efforts across VDP and the agency to prepare these topics for discussion. Reviews and works collaboratively on external communications and updates to the various manuals. (20%) Leads the bill analysis efforts during Texas legislative sessions for VDP. This includes coordinating with the MCS bill analysis coordinator and teams, providing direction to VDP regarding bill analysis, providing training to VDP, overseeing bill analysis efforts, and completing analysis of multiple bills as part of a team of other VDP analysts. Provides coordination and development of responses to legislative inquiries throughout the year. (10%) Monitors and evaluates the implementation of policies and programs, ensuring alignment with agency strategic goals and providing actionable insights for continuous improvement. Assesses complex information to help develop long-term policy strategies for VDP. Anticipates future policy trends and regulatory changes, preparing the agency for potential impacts and proactively developing policy responses. Provides some coordination or oversight of the work of others on the VDP policy team. (5%) Performs other duties as assigned and required to meet the mission and goals of MCS. Works under limited supervision with considerable latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Attends works on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with agency leave policy. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Knowledge of local, state, and federal laws related to the Medicaid and CHIP programs. Knowledge of public policy analysis principles and governmental structures; state and federal legislative and policy development processes; and relevant policy areas. Knowledge of the legislative process. Skill in researching and analyzing complex data and policies; in identifying policy options and impacts for decision-makers; in collaborating with internal and external stakeholders; in developing clear and concise written and verbal communication; in problem-solving, critical thinking, and independent decision-making; in the use of a computer and applicable software. Ability to research, analyze or evaluate data; to identify issues and propose solutions; to assess potential policy impacts; to develop and present alternative solutions; to conduct studies; to interpret and implement policies and procedures; to work independently and collaboratively, to manage multiple projects and deadlines; to prepare concise reports; and to communicate effectively. Ability to problem-solve. Ability to work cooperatively as a team member in a fast-paced, deadline-orientated environment. Ability to work independently and operate effectively within established guidelines and timeframes. Ability to balance team and individual responsibilities. Ability to oversee and/or supervise the work of others. Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications: N/A Initial Screening Criteria: At least three years’ experience researching, analyzing, developing, and implementing complex health policy issues and interacting with internal and external stakeholders. Demonstrated experience with the legislative process is required. Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major course work in public policy, political science, social sciences, law, economics, business administration, journalism, or a related field to the job is required. An advanced college or university degree with similar major course work in a field relevant to the job is preferred. 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: Austin