Policy Research Intern Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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: Policy Research Intern Job Title: Research Specialist I Agency: Health & Human Services Comm Department: POLICY AND PUBLICATION Posting Number: 15019 Closing Date: 06/16/2026 Posting Audience: Internal and External Occupational Category: Office and Administrative Support Salary Range: $3,409.83- $4,344.50 Pay Frequency: MonthlySalary Group: TEXAS-B-16 Shift: Day Additional Shift: Days (First) Telework: Eligible for Telework Travel: Up to 15% Regular/Temporary: Temporary 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
Job Description
The Texas Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Inspector General (OIG) was established to combat fraud, waste, and abuse in publicly funded health and human services programs. The OIG Performance and Cross-Functional Initiatives (PCFI) team collaborates with divisions across the OIG to identify opportunities for operational efficiencies and performance improvement with a focus on continuing to evolve the OIG's work.
We are seeking a thoughtful, curious intern to join PCFI for the 2026 summer semester. The PCFI Intern supports the OIG's core functions and is dedicated to creating a culture of innovation and continuous improvement by focusing on federal and state public policy, business process analysis, project management, and implementation of organizational improvements.
The internship offers the opportunity to gain real-world experience in research, critical thinking, data analysis, and persuasive writing. The ideal candidate is a strong thinker and writer; is persistent, self-motivated, and organized; and has a passion for public service.
Essential Job Functions

• Conducts research and evaluation of organizational issues and challenges.
• Organizes information into tables and spreadsheets for tracking and presentation.
• Assists with business process analysis, forecasting, and data interpretation and analysis.
• Proposes and justifies recommendations for alternative, innovative, and creative solutions to identified issues.
• Develops reference materials for OIG staff.
• Attends meetings with OIG leadership and staff.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of and ability to read and interpret state and federal laws and rules.
• Skills analyzing complex subject matter and communicating key information.
• Skills working well with individuals and teams toward a common goal.
• Skills using office equipment and software (e.g., Microsoft Office suite, including Excel and Lists).
• Ability to communicate clearly, both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to set priorities and meet deadlines.
• Ability to prepare well-written, concise briefing documents and reports, and visually dynamic presentations.

Registrations, Licensure Requirements, or Certifications
None Required.
Initial Screening Criteria

• Currently enrolled in a bachelor's or master's program in public policy, social science, public health, public affairs, or a related field.
• Past academic or work history demonstrating an eagerness to learn and excel.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
The OIG is responsible for preventing, detecting, auditing, inspecting, reviewing, and investigating fraud, waste, and abuse in the provision of HHS in Medicaid and other HHS programs. Potential employees of OIG are subject to criminal background checks in accordance with the HHS Human Resources policy. Selected applicants must complete a national fingerprint-based criminal background check through the Texas Department of Public Safety (TDPS) and Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) to determine if they have criminal history record information that constitutes a bar to employment.
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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.