What are the responsibilities and job description for the MCS Program Policy Analyst position at Texas Health and Human Services?
Date: Jun 24, 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: MCS Program Policy AnalystJob Title: Program Specialist VAgency: Health & Human Services CommDepartment: Program Policy Spec APosting Number: 18343Closing Date: 07/08/2026Posting Audience: Internal and ExternalOccupational Category: Community and Social ServicesSalary Range: $4,523.16 - $7,253.83Pay Frequency: Monthly
Salary Group: TEXAS-B-21Shift: DayAdditional Shift: Days (First)
Telework
Travel: Up to 20%Regular/Temporary: RegularFull Time/Part Time: Full timeFLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt
Facility Location:
Job Location City: AUSTIN
Job Location Address: 701 W 51ST ST
Other Locations:
MOS Codes: 16GX,60C0,611X,612X,63G0,641X,712X,86M0,8U000,OS,OSS,PERS,YN,YNS
Brief Job Description
The Program Policy team within Medicaid and CHIP Services (MCS) Office of Policy is seeking a highly qualified candidate to fill the position of MCS Policy Analyst (Program Specialist V). This position serves as a subject matter expert for MCS program policy related to Texas Health Steps, the name for Texas' Early Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment (EPSDT) program. This position is responsible for contract oversight, policy analysis and development, data analysis, responding to inquiries, implementing program requirements, developing reports, working with stakeholders, and completing work during legislative sessions.
The MCS Policy Analyst
(25%) Collaborates with other areas of MCS and HHSC to plan, develop, implement, monitor, interpret and evaluate Medicaid programs, policies, initiatives, MCO contract requirements, business rules, administrative rules, waivers, and state plan. Evaluates and provider compliance with program policies and procedures, contract requirements, statutes, and rules.
(25%) Plans, monitors, and evaluates MCS implementation of state legislation, federal legislation, and federal rules. Analyzes data, state legislation, federal legislation, and federal rules to evaluate its impact to MCS and stakeholders, including MCOs, service providers, and members.
(20%) Establishes, facilitates, and participates in relevant workgroups and committees, including inter-agency workgroups and committees. Coordinates and provides requested training to internal staff and external entities.
(15%) Coordinates with and speaks to internal and external stakeholders. Arranges and facilitates meetings. Responds to internal and external inquiries.
(20%) Prepares high quality written documents such as project updates, reports, PowerPoint presentations, communications to stakeholders and contractors, executive memos, policy and project summaries, legislative reports, administrative rules, waivers, and state plan amendments.
(10%) Other duties as assigned.
Registrations, Licensure Requirements Or Certifications
None required
Knowledge Of
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Federal and state Medicaid and CHIP laws and regulations;
Government organization and administration;
Program issues related to Medicaid services for children with disabilities;
Principles of health and human services policy and planning;
State of Texas legislative processes.
Skills In
Analyzing, evaluating, and interpreting complex federal and state legislation, program, policy, and operations issues;
Project management policy analysis, and performing policy research;
Synthesizing, analyzing, and evaluating highly complicated and technical information;
Translating policy and technical information into easily understandable and concise documents and oral presentations;
Developing creative and workable solutions to complex problems and policy issues; and
Facilitating stakeholder and different workgroup meetings.
Ability To
Develop, amend, and interpret program policies, rules, and contract requirements related to Medicaid and CHIP Services;
Research, gather, assemble, correlate, and analyze facts and devise solutions based on the information available;
Work with a team under pressure, negotiate among multiple parties, resolve conflicts;
Exercise judgment and work independently with minimum supervision;
Work cooperatively as a team member in a fast-paced, deadline-oriented environment;
Establish and maintain effective working relationship with various levels of personnel in government entities;
Use Microsoft Office Suite applications such as Outlook, Teams, Word, and Excel;
Communicate effectively orally and in writing, including the ability to adjust communications to fit the intended audience;
Work with diverse groups of people, including stakeholders, that have a variety of opinions.
Initial Screening Criteria
Candidates Must Meet One Of The Following
High school diploma and at least five years of full-time work experience in the health and human services field;
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year college or university and at least one year of full-time work experience in a health and human services field; or
Master’s degree from an accredited college or university in public health, public administration, public affairs, social work, or closely related field.
Preferred Screening Criteria
Additional information about the programs this position supports can be found on the2024 edition of the Texas Medicaid Pink Book https://www.hhs.texas.gov/sites/default/files/documents/texas-medicaid-chip-reference-guide-15th-edition.pdf.
HHSC is a qualifying organization for the Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program, which forgives the remaining balance on college student Direct Loans after making 120 qualifying monthly payments.
Additional benefits of joining the MCS Office of Policy include:
The final salary offer is dependent on factors such as Human Resources policies and available budget.
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
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: MCS Program Policy AnalystJob Title: Program Specialist VAgency: Health & Human Services CommDepartment: Program Policy Spec APosting Number: 18343Closing Date: 07/08/2026Posting Audience: Internal and ExternalOccupational Category: Community and Social ServicesSalary Range: $4,523.16 - $7,253.83Pay Frequency: Monthly
Salary Group: TEXAS-B-21Shift: DayAdditional Shift: Days (First)
Telework
Travel: Up to 20%Regular/Temporary: RegularFull Time/Part Time: Full timeFLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt
Facility Location:
Job Location City: AUSTIN
Job Location Address: 701 W 51ST ST
Other Locations:
MOS Codes: 16GX,60C0,611X,612X,63G0,641X,712X,86M0,8U000,OS,OSS,PERS,YN,YNS
Brief Job Description
The Program Policy team within Medicaid and CHIP Services (MCS) Office of Policy is seeking a highly qualified candidate to fill the position of MCS Policy Analyst (Program Specialist V). This position serves as a subject matter expert for MCS program policy related to Texas Health Steps, the name for Texas' Early Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment (EPSDT) program. This position is responsible for contract oversight, policy analysis and development, data analysis, responding to inquiries, implementing program requirements, developing reports, working with stakeholders, and completing work during legislative sessions.
The MCS Policy Analyst
- Performs highly advanced, consultative and technical work related to the planning, development, implementation, and maintenance of Texas Health Steps program.
- Collaborates with and provides technical assistance and oversight to Department of State Health Services (DSHS);
- Analyzes, develops, and revises program policy, including contract requirements, administrative rules, manuals, and procedures;
- Works with internal and external stakeholders, including other governmental agencies, managed care organizations, provider associations, people receiving services, advisory committee members;
- Identifies and resolves problems to address program needs;
- Assists in ensuring compliance with program policies and procedures, statutes, and rules;
- Implements complex program initiatives;
- Serves as agency liaison to committees or workgroups;
- Prepares high quality written reports, correspondence, and other documents;
- Oversees contractual requirements;
- Drafts agency reports;
- Leads meetings;
- Responds to inquiries;
- Develops and provides training; and
- Analyzes legislation.
(25%) Collaborates with other areas of MCS and HHSC to plan, develop, implement, monitor, interpret and evaluate Medicaid programs, policies, initiatives, MCO contract requirements, business rules, administrative rules, waivers, and state plan. Evaluates and provider compliance with program policies and procedures, contract requirements, statutes, and rules.
(25%) Plans, monitors, and evaluates MCS implementation of state legislation, federal legislation, and federal rules. Analyzes data, state legislation, federal legislation, and federal rules to evaluate its impact to MCS and stakeholders, including MCOs, service providers, and members.
(20%) Establishes, facilitates, and participates in relevant workgroups and committees, including inter-agency workgroups and committees. Coordinates and provides requested training to internal staff and external entities.
(15%) Coordinates with and speaks to internal and external stakeholders. Arranges and facilitates meetings. Responds to internal and external inquiries.
(20%) Prepares high quality written documents such as project updates, reports, PowerPoint presentations, communications to stakeholders and contractors, executive memos, policy and project summaries, legislative reports, administrative rules, waivers, and state plan amendments.
(10%) Other duties as assigned.
Registrations, Licensure Requirements Or Certifications
None required
Knowledge Of
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Federal and state Medicaid and CHIP laws and regulations;
Government organization and administration;
Program issues related to Medicaid services for children with disabilities;
Principles of health and human services policy and planning;
State of Texas legislative processes.
Skills In
Analyzing, evaluating, and interpreting complex federal and state legislation, program, policy, and operations issues;
Project management policy analysis, and performing policy research;
Synthesizing, analyzing, and evaluating highly complicated and technical information;
Translating policy and technical information into easily understandable and concise documents and oral presentations;
Developing creative and workable solutions to complex problems and policy issues; and
Facilitating stakeholder and different workgroup meetings.
Ability To
Develop, amend, and interpret program policies, rules, and contract requirements related to Medicaid and CHIP Services;
Research, gather, assemble, correlate, and analyze facts and devise solutions based on the information available;
Work with a team under pressure, negotiate among multiple parties, resolve conflicts;
Exercise judgment and work independently with minimum supervision;
Work cooperatively as a team member in a fast-paced, deadline-oriented environment;
Establish and maintain effective working relationship with various levels of personnel in government entities;
Use Microsoft Office Suite applications such as Outlook, Teams, Word, and Excel;
Communicate effectively orally and in writing, including the ability to adjust communications to fit the intended audience;
Work with diverse groups of people, including stakeholders, that have a variety of opinions.
Initial Screening Criteria
Candidates Must Meet One Of The Following
High school diploma and at least five years of full-time work experience in the health and human services field;
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year college or university and at least one year of full-time work experience in a health and human services field; or
Master’s degree from an accredited college or university in public health, public administration, public affairs, social work, or closely related field.
Preferred Screening Criteria
- Work experience researching and analyzing complex policy issues and communicating the analysis in clear and concise policy documents.
- Work experience in Medicaid or CHIP Services, Texas Health Steps, or Local Intellectual and Developmental Disability Authorities (LIDDAs).
Additional information about the programs this position supports can be found on the2024 edition of the Texas Medicaid Pink Book https://www.hhs.texas.gov/sites/default/files/documents/texas-medicaid-chip-reference-guide-15th-edition.pdf.
HHSC is a qualifying organization for the Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program, which forgives the remaining balance on college student Direct Loans after making 120 qualifying monthly payments.
Additional benefits of joining the MCS Office of Policy include:
- Leadership commitment to invest in and foster your professional growth and career advancement.
- Being part of a team that impacts the lives of millions of Texans that depend on Texas Medicaid throughout Texas.
- Being on the ground level of healthcare policy development and implementation, including the opportunity to work closely with stakeholders such as federal partners, providers, advocates, managed care organizations, and other healthcare contractors.
- Engagement with the Texas legislative process, including the opportunity to analyze and inform legislators of potential impact of proposed bills.
- The opportunity to learn and engage with multiple domains of the healthcare delivery system, including managed care, fee-for-service, federal-state Medicaid partnerships and other activities related to the administration of the Medicaid program.
The final salary offer is dependent on factors such as Human Resources policies and available budget.
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
Salary : $4,523 - $7,254