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Functional Title: Research Specialist I 
Job Title: Research Specialist I 
Agency: Health & Human Services Comm 
Department: Med Svcs-Acute Care Surv TK 
Posting Number: 14925 
Closing Date: 03/31/2026 
Posting Audience: Internal and External 
Occupational Category: Office and Administrative Support 
Salary Range: $2,172.25 - $2,172.25 
Pay Frequency: Monthly
Salary Group: TEXAS-B-16 
Shift: Day 
Additional Shift: Days (First) 
Telework: Eligible for Telework 
Travel:  
Regular/Temporary: Temporary 
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 
 
 
 

Job Description:

The part-time Research Specialist I (Summer Intern) is selected by and reports to the Director of the Surveillance Utilization Review (SUR) Division of the Office of Inspector General (OIG). This part-time position provides policy research, statistical analysis, and general support related to the identification and review of fraud, waste, and abuse in Texas Health and Human Services programs.

The Research Specialist I performs routine (journey-level) research work. Works under moderate supervision, with limited latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. The employee may rely on direction from others to solve problems that are not standard and may routinely assist other staff in performing work of greater complexity.

Essential Job Functions:

Supports case generation initiatives through policy research. Prepares summary documents to inform colleagues. Researches and analyzes Texas Medicaid encounter data in support of case generation processes. (40%)

Collects and compiles performance data related to the work of the Surveillance Utilization Review (SUR) team. Analyzes SUR performance data to identify opportunities for improvement in program activities and monitors procedures to assess efficiency. Collaborates with program staff to identify and document trends. Assists in the documentation and implementation of procedure changes. (30%)

Prepares reports summarizing analyses of SUR performance data. Collaborates with program staff to propose program efficiencies and improvements. (20%)

Performs other duties, including projects, as assigned. (10%)

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications: N/A

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

• Knowledge of local, state, and federal laws related to the Medicaid program; knowledge of statistical analysis processes; knowledge of program planning,  implementation, policy and procedures.
• Skills in identifying appropriate policy references and conducting research related to Texas Medicaid and Surveillance Utilization Review; skills in performing statistical analyses; skills in program evaluation; skills in the use of Microsoft Office and working in a team environment.
• Ability to gather, assemble, correlate, and analyze facts; to devise solutions to problems; to develop and evaluate policies and procedures; to prepare reports; to work in a team; to communicate effectively.

Initial Screening Criteria:

Currently enrolled at or recently graduated from an accredited four-year college or university with major course work in a field relevant to the assignment. Experience and education may be substituted for one another.
Experience in a field relating to the Medicaid program, policy research, statistical analysis, or program evaluation is preferred
Experience using a personal computer and software such as Microsoft Office.

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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.