Program Specialist VII

Role Description

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) Medicaid and CHIP Services (MCS) division seeks a highly qualified candidate to fill the Program Specialist VII position within Program Enrollment and Support, Enrollment Broker Operations. MCS is driven by its mission to deliver quality, cost-effective services to Texans.

This position performs highly advanced (senior-level) consultative, analytical, and project coordination work supporting the implementation of state and federal initiatives, such as the Medicaid and CHIP Quality Rating System (MAC QRS), a Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) initiative requiring states to develop an interactive public reporting system that allows Medicaid recipients to compare and find information about Medicaid managed care plans.

The Program Specialist VII serves as the Medicaid and CHIP Services project lead for assigned initiatives and provides strategic coordination across HHSC divisions and external partners. This position provides division-level oversight and coordination to ensure project alignment, progress, and compliance with federal requirements.

The role requires strong project management practices combined with the policy, analytical, and program management responsibilities typical of a senior Program Specialist. Responsibilities include:

• Coordinating stakeholders.
• Developing and maintaining project tracking materials.
• Monitoring deliverables and timelines.
• Preparing executive briefings.
• Supporting policy and operational alignment across the Medicaid and CHIP programs.

The position works under minimal supervision with extensive latitude for initiative and independent judgment. The ideal candidate demonstrates strong critical thinking, organization, and collaboration skills and thrives in a fast-paced environment that requires strategic coordination across multiple program areas and stakeholders.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of Medicaid and CHIP managed care programs, enrollment policies, and related operational processes.
• Knowledge of federal and state laws, regulations, and policies affecting Medicaid programs.
• Knowledge of program management and public administration principles.
• Knowledge of project management methodologies and tools used to track project milestones and deliverables.
• Skill in coordinating complex projects involving multiple stakeholders.
• Skill in preparing reports, presentations, and executive briefings.
• Skill in analyzing data, policies, and operational processes to support decision-making.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and facilitate collaboration across organizational boundaries.
• Ability to identify risks and develop strategies to address operational challenges.
• Ability to communicate effectively with diverse audiences including leadership, technical staff, and external partners.

Requirements

• At least two years of experience in Medicaid or CHIP systems-related project management or program implementation.
• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. Educational requirements may be substituted with relevant work experience on a year-for-year basis.

Benefits

• 100% paid employee health insurance for full-time eligible employees.
• A defined benefit pension plan.
• Generous time off benefits.
• Numerous opportunities for career advancement.