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: Switchboard Operator
Job Title: Receptionist I
Agency: Health & Human Services Comm
Department: Switchboard
Posting Number: 18885
Closing Date: 07/27/2026
Posting Audience: Internal and External
Occupational Category: Office and Administrative Support
Salary Range: $2,481.75 - $3,404.91
Pay Frequency: Monthly
Salary Group: TEXAS-A-09
Shift: Evening
Additional Shift: Evenings (Second); Nights (Third)
Telework: Not Eligible for Telework
Travel: Up to 5%
Regular/Temporary: Regular
Full Time/Part Time: Full time
FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt
Facility Location: Mexia State Supported Living Center
Job Location City: MEXIA
Job Location Address: 540 CHAPEL DRIVE
Other Locations:
MOS Codes: 0100,0111,0170,3372,15P,3F5X1,42A,56M,741X,8A200,PERS,RP,SN,YN,YNS
Brief Job Description:
Come work in an environment where we truly value and respect those we serve and believe in the mission that all people can achieve a higher level of wellness and independence.
The state supported living centers serve people with intellectual and developmental disabilities who are medically fragile or who have behavioral problems. The centers provide campus-based direct services and supports at 13 centers located throughout the state. Learn About Our State Supported Living Centers
If you are looking for a place to work where you can establish a career that is filled with purpose, this is the job for you!
Under the direction of the Switchboard Supervisor, the operator is responsible for the courteous, efficient, and effective operation of the switchboard, to promote a positive image of Mexia State Supported Living Center. Work involves answering and transferring local and long-distance calls, performing related paging and/or clerical tasks, monitoring alarm system and handling emergency situations according to policy and procedures. Work consists of simple and routine duties. Decisions are varied but are based on well-defined guidelines. This position works a split shift 2p-10p and 10p-6a.
Essential Job Functions (EJFs):
Attends work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.
Places, answers, and transfers local and long-distance calls in an efficient manner. 50%
Provides relief for other operators for coverage during illness, vacation and other emergency situations - 10%
Responds to emergency calls on and off campus 15%
Greets visitors, and answers questions in a pleasant and professional manner - 10%
Monitors fire alarm system and reports trouble - 10%
Maintains records - 5%
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs):
1. Knowledge of the operation of switchboard equipment or ability to learn.
2. Working knowledge of facility and department policies and procedures
3. Ability to react calmly and quickly in emergency situations.
4. Ability to type, keep records, file accurately, and have some basic computer skills.
5. Ability to follow oral and written instructions
6. Ability to work harmoniously with fellow employees and interact harmoniously with individuals, their family members visitors and the general public.
7. Must be available to work varied shifts, as needed
8. Must be able to hear paging system and monitor fire alarm system
Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:
None
Initial Screening Criteria:
Graduation from an accredited high school or GED, plus 2 years’ work experience as a switchboard or console operator or 2 years’ experience as a receptionist with multi-line phone system. Some experience in Microsoft Programs, such as Word, Excel, Outlook, preferred.
Additional Information:
Applicants must pass a fingerprint criminal background check, pre-employment drug screen, and registry checks including the Client Abuse/Neglect Reporting System (CANRS), Nurse Aide, Medication Aide and Employee Misconduct and HHS List of Excluded Individuals/ Entities (LEIE).
Males between the ages of 18 – 25 must be registered with the Selective Service.
All State Supported Living Center Employees are subject to Random Drug Testing.
Flexibility in work hours may be required for this position. The position may be required to work overtime and/or extended hours. Must be willing to work weekends and holidays.
All applicants must be at least 18 years of age to be considered for employment at a state-operated facility.
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.
