Lead Policy Advisor

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’s mission is to deliver quality, cost‑effective outpatient drug benefits to Texans.

The Lead Policy Advisor will perform senior‑level policy analysis and contribute to VDP’s strategy, legislative engagement, and program implementation.

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
Salary Group: TEXAS-B-25
Salary Range: $5,797.66 - $8,500.00 per month
Shift: Day
Telework: Eligible for Telework (subject to agency policy)
Maximum Travel: Up to 10%
Work Location: 701 W 51ST ST, Austin, TX

Duties include managing complex drug and pharmacy policy analysis projects, 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. The Lead Policy Advisor leads bill analysis during legislative sessions and responds to legislative inquiries throughout the year. The role emphasizes efficiency, high professional standards, critical thinking, teamwork, and a positive attitude in a fast‑paced environment.

• 40% Performs highly complex policy analysis, development, and implementation, including project management from inception to completion. Provides senior‑level research, analysis, evaluation, and technical assistance, and develops policy proposals and reports for agency leadership.
• 25% Leads the VDP policy team in collaboration with external stakeholders, including preparing quarterly stakeholder meetings topics and coordinating internal and external communications.
• 20% Directs bill analysis efforts during Texas legislative sessions, providing training and oversight to VDP analysts and coordinating responses to legislative inquiries.
• 10% Monitors and evaluates policy implementations, provides actionable insights for continuous improvement, anticipates regulatory changes, and provides coordination or oversight of the VDP policy team.
• 5% Performs other duties as assigned to meet the mission and goals of MCS.

• Knowledge of local, state, and federal Medicaid and CHIP laws and public policy analysis principles.
• Ability to research, analyze, evaluate, and present complex data and policy options.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for internal and external stakeholders.
• Problem‑solving, critical thinking, and independent decision‑making skills.
• Capability to manage multiple projects, meet deadlines, and work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to oversee or supervise the work of others.

• At least three years of experience researching, analyzing, developing, and implementing complex health policy issues and interacting with internal and external stakeholders.
• Demonstrated experience with the legislative process.
• Graduation from an accredited four‑year college or university with major coursework in public policy, political science, social sciences, law, economics, business administration, journalism, or a related field.
• An advanced degree in a related field is preferred.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHSC and DSHS agencies will provide reasonable accommodations during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability. Contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1‑888‑894‑4747 if assistance is needed completing the online application or if an accommodation is required for an interview.

Applicants may need to pass background and other due diligence checks. HHSC uses E‑Verify. Bring I‑9 documentation to the first day of work and download the form as needed.

This position may be eligible for telework. All HHS positions are subject to state and agency telework policies in addition to the discretion of the direct supervisor and business needs.