Senior Policy Analyst

Date:
Feb 16, 2026

Location:

HARLINGEN, TX – 801 N 13TH STE 19

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:

Senior Policy Analyst
Job Title: Program Specialist VI
Agency: Health & Human Services Commission
Department: PP SNAP & TANF
Posting Number: 13584
Closing Date: 04/17/2026
Posting Audience: Internal and External
Occupational Category: Community and Social Services
Salary Group: TEXAS-B-23
Salary Range: $5,098.66 – $6,701.75
Pay Frequency: Monthly
Shift: Day (First)
Telework: Eligible for Telework
Travel: Up to 30%

The Program Specialist VI performs advanced consultative work involving complex research, analysis, and policy development related to eligibility for programs including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Medicaid, CHIP, and other state and federal programs administered by HHSC and AES.

• Completes complex research assignments and interprets federal and state guidance using advanced analytical skills.
• Delivers accurate analysis within established timelines and presents findings clearly.
• Reviews and synthesizes data to support policy decision‑making.

• Drafts, reviews, and edits policy documents including bulletins, memos, and handbook updates.
• Prepares briefings, memos, and materials that support leadership decisions.
• Supports policy implementation tasks to ensure successful rollout, accuracy, and consistency.

• Serves as a subject‑matter expert in meetings and work groups.
• Provides timely and accurate clarification on escalated policy issues.
• Builds productive working relationships with internal and external partners.

• Coordinates project development and management activities, operationalizing project goals.
• Tracks policy issues, identifies challenges, and offers solutions.
• Manages multiple assignments simultaneously and reviews TAC rules, amendments, waivers, and IT updates.

• Provides guidance and mentorship to team members.
• Supports staff development by offering clear and patient technical assistance.

• Knowledge of Medicaid, CHIP, SNAP, TANF, and other programs administered by HHSC.
• Knowledge of federal and state legislative and policy development processes.
• Skill in researching, interpreting, and analyzing complex policy data.
• Skill in preparing clear and concise policy documents.
• Skill in communication, problem‑solving, and independent decision‑making.
• Ability to organize work, manage multiple projects, and collaborate effectively.
• Ability to represent the department as a subject‑matter expert.

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with major coursework in public policy, social work, public health, or a related field preferred; relevant work experience may substitute for education on a year‑for‑year basis.
• Experience conducting policy analysis.
• Experience working with SNAP, TANF, Medicaid, CHIP, or other AES/HHS programs.
• Experience synthesizing complex information and preparing clear policy documents.

Occasional travel within Texas is required. Flexible teleworking options are available in accordance with HHSC policy.

Applicants selected for hire will be required to pass background and other due diligence checks.

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 online 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.

All active‑duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified to fill this position.

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 on your first day of work. Download the I‑9 Form.

All HHS positions are subject to state and agency telework policies.

Brownsville