Research Specialist V (Rate Research and Implementation)

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 (Rate Research and Implementation) 
Job Title: Research Specialist V 
Agency: Health & Human Services Comm 
Department: HHSC & HHS Rate Analysis LTC 
Posting Number: 23395 
Closing Date: 01/12/2027 
Posting Audience: Internal and External 
Occupational Category: Business and Financial Operations 
Salary Range: $5,425.33 - $8,886.16 
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: Exempt 
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 

• Research Specialist V (RS V) reports the Manager of the Rate Research and Implementation (RRI) Team within the LTSS section of PFD) and performs advanced research and rate setting work. This includes evaluation of existing, new, or alternative rate methodologies for Texas Medicaid services. The work involves research of state and federal regulations, analysis of Texas rate setting and reimbursement methodologies along with those used in other states, general policy research and other research projects as assigned. 
• The RS V will serve as subject matter expert in LTSS rates and methodologies, including updating pro-forma rate models and rate calculations. Under the direction and assistance of the RRI manager, the Research Specialist V will mentor new staff, perform reviews on peer’s work, engage in staff training on research methods and LTSS rate methodologies, and help to ensure work is completed accurately and meets required deadlines.
• Research and rates setting will be performed under minimal direction with extensive latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgement. The RS V develops and implements research and analytical procedures to assess the validity of methods and/or procedures for appropriate application. They will prepare a variety of reports, studies, or other deliverables for internal and external audiences containing research results related to the rate setting process. They will be expected to make presentations related to research and rate setting work and represent the PFD in meetings with internal and external stakeholders. They prepare memorandums and white papers regarding the research and analysis performed for Executive Leadership.

Essential job functions:

• Analyses and develops existing, new, and alternative rate methodologies (30%). Performs advanced research related to HHSC’s Medicaid and non-Medicaid rate methodologies necessary to develop LTSS reimbursement rates and supplemental payment programs. Contributes to LTSS rate setting work by refining LTSS pro-forma rate models to ensure that they align with state and federal guidelines and regulation, Texas Administrative Code, and industry best practices. Provides consultation and technical advice on research methods and techniques to staff on the team and other rate analysts in the department. 
• Reviews, analyzes, and evaluates the impact of legislation, regulations and policies affecting reimbursement rates and healthcare finances (30%). Reports results and makes recommendations to PFD Leadership and Executive staff, including the Executive Commissioner and other key personnel; Formulates and monitors long-term research objectives, programs, and priorities needed to develop new reimbursement techniques and to evaluate how reimbursement rates are influencing HHSC’s outcomes goals for clients, communicates to and advises the Director of PFD regarding the progress towards the long-term research objectives upon request.
• Develops documents for approval and presentation (30%). Drafts memorandums and white papers based on analyses; conducts public hearings. prepares independent reports and presentations on analyses results to other staff and department leadership on a routine basis; delivers oral presentations and reports on financial programs and initiatives to various provider and stakeholder organizations and to HHSC leadership; communicates complex results in a manner that can be easily understood by various audiences including public stakeholders. 
• Promotes improvement and Innovation (10%). Actively contributes to the continuous improvement of department processes through ongoing initiatives including: solutions to automate, building efficiencies, maintaining consistency across multiple models and rate calculations. Creates and updates policies and procedures for documenting internal processes and resources.

Knowledge, Skills and abilities (KSAs)

• Knowledge of research methods, principles, techniques
• Ability to analyze or evaluate research data and findings
• Ability to establish and maintain effective work relationships in a team setting
• Ability to differentiate between various professional circumstances and communicate effectively in writing, in speaking, and nonverbally
• Ability to edit narrative reports.
• Ability to learn and effectively apply new procedures and techniques.

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:

N/A.

Initial Selection Criteria

• Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university required.
• Major coursework in accounting, business administration, finance, economics, statistics, or a related field is preferred. Note: practical experience in these fields may be substituted for major coursework.
• At least two years of experience in accounting, Medicaid/Medicare, healthcare business, statistics, finance, or other relevant fields.
• Ability to be present in-person at the assigned work facility in Austin, Texas.

Additional Notes

• Applicants must complete the online application in full and include a clear summary of experience that shows how they meet the initial screening criteria.
• Telework flexibility may be available in accordance with agency policy; in‑office presence may be required based on business need.
• Occasional travel may be required for meetings, trainings, or stakeholder engagement.

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 these 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 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. 

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.