Health and Human Services Commission of Texas is hiring: Nurse III - Nurse Educa

Overview

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 : Nurse III - Nurse Educator

Job Title : Nurse III

Agency : Health & Human Services Comm

Department : Residential Care Supervisor H

Posting Number : 4510

Closing Date : 05 / 27 / 2025

Posting Audience : Internal and External

Occupational Category : Healthcare Practitioners and Technical

Salary Group : TEXAS-B-24

Salary Range : $7,532.75 - $8,886.16

Shift : Day

Additional Shift : Days (First)

Telework : Not Eligible for Telework

Travel : Up to 5%

Regular / Temporary : Regular

Full Time / Part Time : Full time

FLSA Exempt / Non-Exempt : Exempt

Facility Location : Austin State Hospital

Job Location City : AUSTIN

Job Location Address : 4110 GUADALUPE

Other Locations : MOS Codes :

290X,46AX,46FX,46NX,46PX,46SX,46YX,66B,66C,66E,66F,66G,66H,66P,66R,66S,66T,66W

Brief Job Description

Would you thrive in an environment where you learn and grow personally and professionally all while helping make a positive impact on people\'s lives? Do you appreciate being around others who are dependable, trustworthy, hard workers who believe in the value of teamwork? HHSC is dedicated to building an atmosphere where employees feel valued and supported while providing specialized care for Texans in need. HHSC is comprised of nine psychiatric hospitals, one youth residential treatment facility, and thirteen state supported living centers. The psychiatric hospitals are a hub of excellence for forensic mental health and complex psychiatric care, with all facilities accredited by The Joint Commission. They provide state-of-the-art treatment that is recovery-oriented and science-based. If providing hope and healing through compassionate, innovative, and individualized care interests you, we welcome your application for the position below.

Responsibilities

• The Nurse Educator performs advanced professional nursing work within the scope of practice attributed to the skills of a registered nurse. Works under the direction and supervision of the Chief Nurse Executive (CNE).
• Coordinate and implement the Nursing Education Program at the State Hospital (SH).
• Orient all newly hired nurses and assist in the orientation of student nurses.
• Evaluate and test the competency skills and knowledge of all new and incumbent nursing staff.
• Coordinate and develop systems to ensure nursing education/competency is provided for all nurses.
• Assist the Nursing Coordinator and the state-office work group in writing and revising nursing guidelines.
• Promote and initiate professional, legal, and ethical nursing practice at the SH.
• Make varied decisions based on broad principles and guidelines.
• Provide treatment to HHS employees injured in course and scope of employment.
• Work under limited supervision with considerable latitude for initiative and independent judgment.
• Performs other duties as assigned, including participating in disaster response, recovery, or COOP activation; may require alternate shift pattern or location.

Essential Job Functions (EJFs)

• Attend work regularly and be prepared to work specific, rotating, extended, or overtime shifts in accordance with agency policy.
• Orients new nursing staff to facility protocols, guidelines, and procedures.
• Keeps abreast of current nursing philosophy, techniques, and regulations and imparts this information to others.
• Evaluates competency of nursing staff to ensure optimal health care delivery.
• Interprets regulations and assists in writing and revising nursing guidelines.
• Complies with state/federal/local guidelines and standards.
• Tracks, maintains, and updates data related to Nursing Education.
• Coordinates the orientation of nursing students as applicable.
• Works independently with all levels of staff and departments.
• Provides or coordinates training and education on health maintenance and prevention.
• Serves on designated committees as assigned.
• Provides treatment to HHS employees injured in course and scope of employment.
• Performs other duties as assigned, including disaster response/COOP participation with possible schedule changes.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs)

• Considerable knowledge of nursing techniques, standards, procedures, health care laws, regulations, medical diagnoses, and procedures.
• Knowledge of nursing care standards, The Joint Commission standards, CMS conditions of participation, TAC rules, and SH regulations, or ability to quickly gain.
• Knowledge of emergency procedures and equipment (CPR) and ability to respond in emergencies.
• Skills in computer use and electronic health records.
• Excellent verbal and written communication; ability to present ideas clearly.
• Ability to train all levels of staff; lead, coach, and supervise; manage multiple responsibilities.
• Ability to interpret regulations in writing and orally; work independently and in teams.
• Ability to interact appropriately with individuals with mental health issues, their families, and staff.
• Ability to maintain CPR and TIPS certifications.

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications

• Licensed to practice as a registered nurse in Texas or a state with reciprocity via NLC.
• Current CPR certification.

Initial Screening Criteria

• ACEN accreditation with three (3) years of experience.
• OR CCNE-accredited 4-year experience.
• OR two (2) years college plus two (2) years of nursing experience.
• At least two (2) years RN experience in a recognized health facility preferred.

Additional Information

• Applicants must pass fingerprint background check, pre-employment drug screen, and registry checks (CANRS, Nurse Aide, Medication Aide, Employee Misconduct, LEIE).
• Male applicants 18-25 must be registered with Selective Service.
• All applicants must be at least 18; Waco Center for Youth applicants must be 21.
• Flexibility in work hours; overtime/extended hours may be required.
• Immunization policy compliance; vaccines may be provided; if not immunized for influenza, may require mask and other protections.
• Review Tips for Success when applying for jobs at DFPS, DSHS and HHSC.

Active Duty, Military, Reservists, Guardsmen, and Veterans

Military occupations related to this position are encouraged to apply.

ADA Accommodations

HHSC/DSHS will provide reasonable accommodations during hiring in accordance with ADA. For assistance, contact the HHS Employee Service Center.

Pre-Employment Checks and Work Eligibility

Some program areas may require additional background checks. HHSC uses E-Verify and you must bring I-9 documentation on first day.

Telework Disclaimer

This position may be eligible for telework. Telework availability depends on policy, supervisor, and business needs.