Family Health Services Communications Specialist in Austin, TX

Description

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: Family Health Services Communications Specialist 
Job Title: Program Specialist VI 
Agency: Health & Human Services Comm 
Department: Family Health Services Policy 
Posting Number: 11464 
Closing Date: 02/10/2026 
Posting Audience: Internal and External 
Occupational Category: Community and Social Services 
Salary Group: TEXAS-B-23 
Salary Range: $5,100.00 - $7,085.00 
Pay Frequency: Monthly
Shift: Day 
Additional Shift:  
Telework: Eligible for Telework 
Travel: Up to 5% 
Regular/Temporary: Regular 
Full Time/Part Time: Full time 
FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Exempt 
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:

Family Health Services (FHS) believes strong families build a strong Texas. FHS offers health and social services to meet the needs of Texans in all stages of life. While FHS programs operate with different resources and activities, they all aim to grow a healthier, stronger Texas.

The FHS Communications Specialist (Specialist) is part of the FHS Strategy team dedicated to supporting an efficient, effective system of family supports by promoting systems-thinking, cross-program collaboration, and continuous process improvement.

Under the supervision of the FHS Director of Strategic Communications, the Specialist supports FHS with communications and external relations, coordinating closely with programs within FHS and across HHSC, including the Chief Public Affairs Office (CPAO).

Works under minimal supervision with latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

The Specialist shares the goals of FHS to have an integrated system of supports for Texas families; thrives in collaboration; and provides timely, accurate, and informed advice. The Specialist has a strong understanding of HHS programs serving families; excellent writing and editing skills; a keen ability to ensure FHS communications align with HHS policies, state and federal directives; strong organizational skills, and the ability to work across different programs to advance the agency's mission to improve the lives of the people we serve.

Essential Job Functions:

Reviews written materials and presentations, and communicates FHS messaging to appropriate parties. Performs research and employs thorough proofreading and editing skills to ensure all materials are high quality, accurate and appropriate. Assists with public awareness materials and branding strategies for FHS and its programs and services. Distributes messages, presentations, and other media necessary for communications messaging.

Under the leadership of the FHS Director of Strategic Communications, consults with CPAO, including communications and government relations staff, to carry out the communications objectives and goals of the FHS division. Develops and reviews news releases, web articles, social media posts and other communications materials. Helps coordinate responses to media requests, ensuring all requests are responded to in a timely manner. Conducts meetings with internal partners relative to FHS communications and media activities. Advises staff on communications materials and communication plans for FHS meetings and other events. Ensures the division's internal and external messaging appropriately conveys the division's position, objectives, and goals. Develops guidance documents for FHS staff on communication processes.

Under the leadership of the FHS Director of Strategic Communications, manages the maintenance and enhancement of the Texas Family Resources website, working closely with HHS Communications and HHS IT.

Works with stakeholders to provide information and request input. Ensures the utmost confidentiality and impartiality, using sound judgment when managing FHS communications. Provides guidance, direction, and technical assistance to FHS staff on communications issues.

Must be willing to work from an HHS office located in Austin, Texas, designated by the hiring manager. Attends work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities:

Knowledge of HHS programs and policies and issues impacting families.

Knowledge of state and federal statutes, rules, regulations, and guidance relevant to program areas.

Knowledge of state and federal legislative processes.

Skill in writing and editing materials.

Skill in digital and/or graphic communications.

Skill in problem-solving and independent decision-making.

Skill in communicating effectively orally and in writing.

Skill in critically evaluating issues and proactively seeking solutions.

Ability to write and edit materials in accordance with plain language standards, HHS style guidelines and The Associated Press Stylebook.

Ability to independently prioritize time and manage multiple project deadlines.

Ability to consult with staff and programs to transform complex information so that it adheres to HHS style guidelines, is engaging and communicates intended message.

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:

N/A

Initial Screening Criteria:

Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a bachelor's degree, preferably in journalism, communications, marketing, public policy, or a related field. 
At least three years  of relevant communications work experience.
Experience working collaboratively to create communication projects. 
Experience working with state or federal government programs or public policy preferred.

Additional Information: 

N/A

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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.