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: Forensic and Jail Diversion Services Specialist
Job Title: Program Specialist VII
Agency: Health & Human Services Comm
Department: Crisis JAIL DIV & FORENSIC
Posting Number: 18963
Closing Date: 07/30/2026
Posting Audience: Internal and External
Occupational Category: Community and Social Services
Salary Range: $5,797.66 - $9,508.25
Pay Frequency: Monthly
Salary Group: TEXAS-B-25
Shift: Day
Additional Shift:
Telework:
Travel: Up to 30%
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: 16GX,60C0,611X,612X,63G0,641X,712X,86M0,8U000,OS,OSS,PERS,YN,YNS
Brief Job Description:
The Forensic and Jail Diversion Services (FJDS) Specialist reports to the Director of FJDS and performs highly advanced, senior-level coordination, implementation, and technical assistance work related to FJDS programs and activities. The FJDS Specialist works under minimal supervision with considerable latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.
This position directly assists the FJDS Director and Associate Directors in the daily activities and operations of the FJDS unit and works alongside the FJDS Director to establish and implement department goals, objectives, and activities for FJDS consistent with the Behavioral Health Services division and Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) strategic plans and the Statewide Behavioral Health Strategic Plan. This person may be responsible for leading special projects, interpreting state and federal laws, and managing FJDS internal procedures. The FJDS Specialist is informed about the statewide mental health service system including program practices, program design and implementation, and oversight of programs under the purview of FJDS. When directed, the FJDS Specialist works with FJDS staff to set priorities, develop standards for program deliverables, provide staff training, and use quality assurance processes to optimize quality and ensure accuracy of work deliverables.
The FJDS Specialist may prepare reports, lead or participate in research projects, and assists in the development and quality assurance review of program policy and procedure manuals, guides, and forms; Develop and coordinate the collection and organization of briefing documents, correspondence, bill analyses and memorandums for executive management review and decision-making; Prepare materials in response to external requests for program information and reports; Respond to legislative correspondence and requests ensuring coordination with appropriate staff; Represent FJDS on external councils, committees, or work groups as assigned.
Essential Job Functions (EJFs):
-
Leads the oversight of processes to support assistance, guidance, and direction to the FJDS Director and Associate Directors, ensuring that procedures and operations of the FJDS area adhere to HHSC policy, guidance, and legal mandates. Develops and implements techniques for tracking and evaluating FJDS program services, activities, and business functions. Identifies need for increased efficiencies and suggests improvements to existing processes. Assists with the development and implementation of FJDS goals, objectives, and activities to align with the larger agency's mission. Handles sensitive situations and materials, using sound judgment to carry out the FJDS Director's directives and plans. Engages with internal and external stakeholders to facilitate policy development and analysis on state mental health services matters. Proactively addresses and escalates issues to the FJDS Director for timely decision-making and resolution. (25%)
-
Acts as the FJDS representative, as assigned, in the coordination of BHS-wide initiatives. Makes assignments, provides direction, and reviews work products in preparation for FJDS Director and Associate Directors' approval. Oversees the collection, organization, analysis, and preparation of materials in response to requests for program information. Prepares and reviews high-quality letters, memoranda, analyses, reports, presentations, agendas, and other executive documents. Coordinates and prepares talking points and assignments on behalf of the FJDS Director or Associate Directors. This role involves direct involvement in the creation and monitoring of administrative and performance reports, including legislative reports. Works collaboratively to complete major projects with limited notice and accelerated timelines. (25%)
-
Supports the FJDS Director and Associate Directors in reviewing state or federal guidance/ statutes that affect mental health services, collaborating with contracts and fiscal departments to assess impacts. Reviews correspondence and ensures compliance with program policies and procedures, recommending changes or corrective action as needed. This may include identifying needs for new programs or modifications to existing ones and supporting staff in adopting innovative methods and procedures. Assists with developing program procedures, standards, and manuals; assists with providing guidance to staff in the development and integration of new methods and provides training to FJDS staff on policies and procedures when directed; and identifies and recommends process improvement activities to streamline operations. (20%)
-
Collaborates with other organizational areas within Mental Health Programs (MHP), BHS and HHSC. Assists in responding to external inquiries and requests. Works closely with FJDS staff to develop or coordinate the timely collection, organization, analysis, and preparation of a wide range of written documents in response to external requests for program information with extreme attention to detail and adherence to published agency guides. Responsible for reviewing and coordinating web updates and ensuring quality and consistency across FJDS content. Prepares written updates, summaries, and other documents as assigned. Develops materials in preparation for or in follow-up to workgroups and meetings conducted with internal and external stakeholders. As directed, represents the agency at business meetings, conferences, and seminars or on boards, panels, and committees. Provides oral presentations, and written materials, as appropriate. Acts as liaison to other program staff and other agencies concerning FJDS programs and initiatives. (20%)
-
Completes other duties as assigned in accordance with the direction of the FJDS Director or Associate Directors, or their designee. (10%)
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs):
Knowledge of:
Forensic services, jail diversion services, behavioral health crisis services, adult mental health programs, and substance use issues and services; recovery, resiliency, engagement and service delivery, including Texas Resilience and Recovery as it has rolled out in Texas. Basic knowledge of the criminal justice system, substance use treatment, prevention, and Medicaid programs/services in Texas.
Skill In:
Effective verbal communication and public speaking, exceptional writing skills, data analysis and reporting, and qualitative interpretation of complex policy issues. Effective facilitation of contractors struggling with implementation of behavioral health service; quickly comprehend complex issues and prioritize activities to meet strict deadlines; identifying problems, evaluating alternatives, and implementing solutions to complex policy and implementation.
Ability to:
Develop complex, detailed implementation plans; lead team projects and delegate tasks appropriate to accomplish team objectives; develop products to support the implementation of evidence-based practices; develop materials for training and TA events; lead cross functional work groups; support contracts related to behavioral health services, crisis, forensic, and jail diversion programs; develop statewide rules for program policy; ability to guide and maintain strong relationships with diverse professionals and stakeholders.
Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:
N/A. Mental health professional licensure is preferred.
Initial Screening Criteria:
Degree Required- Bachelor's degree in public health, psychology/sociology, social work, public affairs, or a related field from an accredited college or university. Master's degree is preferred.
Experience within the forensic and jail diversion system is preferred.
Experience using complex data sets and experience managing large systems change initiatives is preferred.
Experience in direct provision or management/administration of public mental health services is preferred.
Experience with behavioral health rules and the development of contract language and experience managing large systems change initiatives is preferred.
Additional Information:
This position is telework eligible. Please note, all HHS positions are subject to state and agency telework policies in addition to the discretion of the direct supervisor and business need.
The candidate must reside in Texas or be willing to relocate to Texas before the hire date.
The posted salary range reflects the minimum and maximum allowable by state law. Any employment offer is contingent upon available budgeted funds. The offered salary will be determined in accordance with budgetary limits and the requirements of HHSC Human Resources Manual Chapter 7.
Disclaimer: Salary typically falls in the mid-range of posting.
Review our Tips for Success when applying for jobs at DFPS, DSHS and HHSC.
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.
