Policy Attorney

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: Policy Attorney
Job Title: Attorney III
Agency: Health & Human Services Comm
Department: LSD Policy
Posting Number: 13848
Closing Date: 02/26/2026
Posting Audience: Internal and External
Occupational Category: Legal
Salary Group: TEXAS-B-26
Salary Range: $8,581.67 - $9,476.35
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: 4601 W GUADALUPE ST
Other Locations:
MOS Codes: 4402,4405,4406,4407,4408,4409,4410,4411,4417,250X,27A,51JX,92J0,LGL10,LGL11

Brief Job Description:

This is an attorney position in the Policy Department, one of seven departments in the Legal Services Division of the HHS Office of Chief Counsel (OCC). The Policy Department provides legal support to HHSC and DSHS programs and administrative areas in policy development, rulemaking, legislative implementation, program operations, and other general legal needs. As the legal department with the most day-to-day interaction with program areas, the Policy Department connects program areas to resources in other Legal Services departments when there is a need for specialized support. This position's primary assignment is to provide legal support to the Regulatory, Community, and Family Health Services areas of HHSC.

This position performs highly complex legal work overseeing and planning legal activities, preparing legal documents, interpreting laws and regulations, and rendering legal advice and counsel. Works under limited supervision, with considerable latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. This work involves providing legal advice related to policy matters, including rulemaking, open meetings, and legislative interpretation.

Essential Job Functions (EJFs):

Attends work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned. Advises HHS system clients and OCC leadership on legal matters and the drafting, interpretation, and application of agency policy; HHS and other agency regulations in the Texas Administrative Code; state law, including the Government Code and Health and Safety Code; and federal law and regulations, including those concerning public health and welfare. (80%)

Supports or assists in the development of strategies and programs to implement legislative, programmatic, and policy initiatives. (10%)

Reviews and analyzes legislation that may affect HHS System programs, operations, or policy. (10%)

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs):

Knowledge of legal principles, practices, and proceedings; of state and federal laws, rules, and regulations; and of agency administrative rules and regulations.

Skill in legal research, writing, and analysis; in the use of a computer and applicable software; in using reasoning and logic; in identifying and solving complex problems; in prioritizing workloads; and in using judgment to identify courses of action.

Ability to prepare opinions and briefs; to prepare cases for hearing or trial; to conduct research; to summarize findings; to interpret and apply laws; to use legal reference materials; to communicate effectively; to consult other attorneys when appropriate; and to provide guidance to others.

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:

Member in good standing with the State Bar of Texas.

Licensed as an attorney by the State of Texas.

Initial Screening Criteria:

At least four years of experience as a licensed attorney. Graduation from an accredited law school with a Juris Doctor (JD) degree.

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.