Research Specialist V

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: Research Specialist V 
Job Title: Research Specialist V 
Agency: Health & Human Services Comm 
Department: DAP Analytics & Decision Sup 
Posting Number: 19740 
Closing Date: 10/23/2026 
Posting Audience: Internal and External 
Occupational Category: Computer and Mathematical 
Salary Range: $5,425.33 - $7,155.75 
Pay Frequency: Monthly
Salary Group: TEXAS-B-24 
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: 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 
 
 
 

The Research Specialist (RS) V provides key research, analytical and reporting functions for the Human Services Programs team, Office of Data, Analytics, and Performance (DAP), management, legislative entities, and HHSC constituents to support policy development and program evaluation. The RS V reports to the Manager of Human Services Programs in collaboration with staff. The RS V develops and implements highly advanced research on agency programs such as Medicaid, CHIP, SNAP, and TANF; plans and designs study procedures for program evaluation; applies advanced statistical methods to health and human services related eligibility data; coordinates project design, planning, statistical analysis, and/or reporting; writes advanced scripts and code for computer based statistics applications. To enhance understanding of health and human service agencies, programs and issues, this position prepares a variety of reports, studies, and other deliverables for the administration and policy analysts containing analyses of health and human services data, the methods and procedures used, and the relevant sources referenced. The RS V provides consultation and assistance to internal staff and other HHS agencies in developing methods and strategies for more effective reporting of data and analyses, and provides for testing and evaluation of newly developed knowledge, methods, and techniques. This position will coordinate the work of others and works closely with HHSC IT to define and develop the data systems necessary to fulfill the functions of the unit.

Essential Job Functions (EJFs):

EJF. (40%) Plans and/or conducts highly advanced research on the agency’s programs. Plans and

designs study procedures for program evaluation such as TANF, Food Stamps, and Medicaid related

programs; Develops and implements research methods and analytical procedures; assesses validity of

statistical methods and/or procedures for appropriate application; applies advanced statistical methods

to health and human services related data; coordinates project design, planning, statistical analysis,

and/or reporting; and writes advanced scripts and code for computer based statistics applications.

EJF. (35%) Prepares a variety of reports, studies, and other deliverables containing analyses of health

and human services data related to TANF, Food Stamps, and Medicaid related programs, the methods

and procedures used, and relevant sources referenced for the administration and policy analysts,

Texas Legislature, Governor’s Office, other state agencies, and special interest groups.

EJF. (20%) Provides consultation and assistance to internal staff and other HHS agencies in

developing methods and strategies for effective reporting of data and analyses. Provides for testing

and evaluation of newly developed knowledge, methods, and techniques. Defines requirements for

development/modification of agency interface files and tests for accuracy, reliability, and validity.

Consults in policy development and revision to determine impact on reporting capabilities and

current/future research.

EJF. (5%) Statewide travel will be required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs):

Knowledge of scientific research methods, statistical techniques, mathematics, and their application to

research analysis.

Knowledge of Health and Human Services programs, policies and demographic data (e.g., TANF,

Food Stamps, Medicaid data) as well as data limitations.

Knowledge of Internet and World Wide Web.

Skill in using SAS, SPSS, or other statistical software.

Skill in using ACCESS, SQL, or other database management software.

Skill in using EXCEL or other spreadsheet software.

Skill in graphical and tabular presentation of data.

Skill in verbal and written communications.

Ability to manage, manipulate, and analyze complex databases.

Ability to plan, organize, and conduct research projects.

Ability to work in teams that may cross departments and/or agencies, and to communicate effectively

with team members.

Ability to develop and interpret statistical data charts and tables.

Ability to interpret and publish research findings.

Ability to exercise independent judgment and show initiative.

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:

N/A

Initial Screening Criteria:

A minimum of four years college level education or graduation from an accredited college or university in social and behavioral sciences, natural sciences, or related field. Master’s degree or higher preferred. Experience analyzing data using computer software package applications including, but not limited to, SPSS, SAS or SQL. Four or more years work experience with collection, analyses, and/or dissemination of health and/or human services data. College level education and work experience may substitute for each other, up to four years.

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.