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: Communications Intern
Job Title: Research Specialist I
Agency: Health & Human Services Comm
Department: Deputy Chief Financial Officer
Posting Number: 19139
Closing Date: 07/31/2026
Posting Audience: Internal and External
Occupational Category: Arts, Design, Entertainment, Sports, Media
Salary Range: $1,704.91 - $2,547.08
Pay Frequency: Monthly
Salary Group: TEXAS-B-16
Shift: Day
Additional Shift:
Telework: Eligible for Telework
Travel: Up to 5%
Regular/Temporary: Regular
Full Time/Part Time: Part time
FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt
Facility Location:
Job Location City: AUSTIN
Job Location Address: 4601 W GUADALUPE ST
Other Locations:
MOS Codes: 0231,0531,4505,4591,8051,8825,8850,15AX,35F,38A,49A,683X,783X,CYB14,IS,ISS,OSS
Brief Job Description:
If you want to jump start a public service career with an inside look at how a state agency operates, an internship with HHSC’s Chief Financial Officer is right for you. This paid internship is primarily a communications position in the Business Support unit, which helps keep the HHS Finance Division running smoothly and supports innovation. Assignments may be tailored to the candidate’s skills and interests, with the opportunity to learn the variety of skills that make up work in a communications shop.
Essential Job Functions (EJFs):
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Write and edit division newsletter articles, staff emails. (40%)
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Distribute GovDelivery emails and design SharePoint content. (30%)
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Review and edit newsletter content and emails but also PowerPoint and SharePoint content. (15%)
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Create visual and multimedia materials to support messaging using existing templates and guides. (10%)
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Perform other duties as assigned. (5%)
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs):
Knowledge of:
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Basic writing, editing (Associated Press style, plain language, internal newsletter).
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Page design concepts (flyers/brochures or other print publications, website, PowerPoint or SharePoint).
Skill in:
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Writing and editing newsletter articles and content for digital publications.
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Writing and editing staff emails and instructions.
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Using Microsoft Word, Teams, and related software.
Ability to:
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Follow review processes designed to reduce errors and misinformation.
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Follow professional standards in daily email and Teams communications within team and to a broader internal audience.
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Participate in virtual meetings, effectively communicate with team members and complete assignments while working in a hybrid in-office/work-from-home environment.
Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:
N/A
Initial Screening Criteria:
College student with at least 60 hours in journalism, communications, public relations, English / writing, or other related fields; and experience in Microsoft Office Suite.
Additional Information:
Samples of published website articles or graded samples and contact information for the instructor is required.
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.
