Texas Health and Human Services
Innovation Lead – Texas Health and Human Services
Date: Dec 21, 2025
Location: AUSTIN, TX 78751
Agency: Health & Human Services Commission (HHSC)
Department: Chief Technology Office EI 3b
Posting Number: 10562 | Closing Date: 01/22/2026 | Salary Group: TEXAS-B-29 | Salary Range: $8,488.33 - $13,151.00 | Pay Frequency: Monthly | Shift: Day (First) | Telework | Travel: Up to 60% | Regular/Temporary: Regular | Full Time/Part Time: Full time | FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Exempt | Job Location City: AUSTIN | Job Location Address: 4601 W GUADALUPE ST
Brief Job Description The Systems Analyst VII (Innovation Lead) will drive cloud and AI innovation initiatives across the enterprise, delivering strategic solutions that align with agency objectives and enterprise architecture. This role combines innovation strategy, solution design, project leadership, and cross‑functional collaboration to rapidly prototype, pilot, and implement next‑generation technologies. The Innovation Lead will also manage multiple innovation projects, guide solution delivery, and support adoption across stakeholders.
Essential Job Functions
(30%) Defining and managing innovation roadmaps, overseeing proof‑of‑concept portfolios, ensuring smooth transitions from pilot to production, supervising development of business cases, conducting feasibility studies, and crafting modernization strategies.
(25%) Engaging stakeholders through interviews, researching emerging technologies, leading design‑thinking workshops, examining current versus future state processes, recommending AI or cloud‑enabled solutions, and developing requirements, user stories, and process flows.
(15%) Overseeing the innovation delivery process: planning, prioritization, implementation, testing, and handoff; tracking milestones, identifying risks, monitoring metrics; coordinating cross‑functional teams, vendors, and technical resources.
(15%) Leading or supporting solution validation: evaluating AI models, performance testing, coordinating deployment; collaborating with DevOps, data, and cloud engineering teams; monitoring post‑launch outcomes and iterating solutions.
(5%) Assessing technology trends, evaluating emerging AI tools, reviewing cloud services, recommending strategic investments, providing reporting, analysis, and actionable recommendations.
(5%) Ensuring successful adoption: training, communication, documentation; supporting change management through stakeholder engagement and educational materials.
(5%) Collaborating with enterprise teams to support CTO‑level initiatives and other special projects.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Proven experience leading cloud, AI, or emerging technology initiatives from concept to production.
Strong knowledge of cloud platforms (Azure, AWS, GCP), SaaS, and system integration.
Experience with rapid prototyping and scaling innovations.
Expertise in project management and agile delivery frameworks (Scrum, Kanban, hybrid).
Proficiency with JIRA, Azure DevOps, ServiceNow, or similar tools.
Strong analytical skills for evaluating technology trends, creating business cases, and measuring ROI.
Excellent communication, facilitation, and stakeholder management skills.
Experience leading cross‑functional teams and vendor management.
Ability to mentor and guide teams on innovation, product management, and modernization practices.
Knowledge of public sector modernization initiatives and data‑driven decision‑making.
Preferred certifications: PMP, CSPO, SAFe Agilist, Cloud or AI‑related certifications (e.g., AWS Solution Architect, Azure AI Engineer).
Strong understanding of data‑driven decision‑making and reporting tools.
Knowledge of computer systems, design of non‑automated systems, IT equipment, programming languages, hardware and software, operating systems, writing program code, and automated mapping.
Skill in solving problems; scheduling, testing, installing, and implementing programs; troubleshooting computer systems.
Ability to analyze systems and procedures, write and revise standards and procedures, and communicate effectively.
Ability to oversee and/or supervise the work of others.
Proven ability to gather, document, and manage business and technical requirements for enterprise solutions.
Demonstrated ability to translate emerging technology potential into actionable business solutions in complex environments.
Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications N/A
Initial Screening Criteria
Bachelor's degree in computer science, Information Systems, or related field (or equivalent experience on a year‑for‑year basis).
8+ years of experience in technology innovation, systems analysis, or product delivery.
Additional Information Any employment offer is contingent upon available budgeted funds. The offered salary will be determined in accordance with budgetary limits and the requirements of HHSC Human Resources Manual.
Selected candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.
This is a hybrid position based in Austin with at least three (3) days in the office required. Selected candidate must be willing to commute to the office on the required days.
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 may include, but are 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.
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 online 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.
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.
Nearest Major Market: Austin
Seniority Level Mid‑Senior level
Employment Type Full‑time
Job Function Product Management and Marketing
Government Administration
Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Texas Health and Human Services by 2x
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Location: AUSTIN, TX 78751
Agency: Health & Human Services Commission (HHSC)
Department: Chief Technology Office EI 3b
Posting Number: 10562 | Closing Date: 01/22/2026 | Salary Group: TEXAS-B-29 | Salary Range: $8,488.33 - $13,151.00 | Pay Frequency: Monthly | Shift: Day (First) | Telework | Travel: Up to 60% | Regular/Temporary: Regular | Full Time/Part Time: Full time | FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Exempt | Job Location City: AUSTIN | Job Location Address: 4601 W GUADALUPE ST
Brief Job Description The Systems Analyst VII (Innovation Lead) will drive cloud and AI innovation initiatives across the enterprise, delivering strategic solutions that align with agency objectives and enterprise architecture. This role combines innovation strategy, solution design, project leadership, and cross‑functional collaboration to rapidly prototype, pilot, and implement next‑generation technologies. The Innovation Lead will also manage multiple innovation projects, guide solution delivery, and support adoption across stakeholders.
Essential Job Functions
(30%) Defining and managing innovation roadmaps, overseeing proof‑of‑concept portfolios, ensuring smooth transitions from pilot to production, supervising development of business cases, conducting feasibility studies, and crafting modernization strategies.
(25%) Engaging stakeholders through interviews, researching emerging technologies, leading design‑thinking workshops, examining current versus future state processes, recommending AI or cloud‑enabled solutions, and developing requirements, user stories, and process flows.
(15%) Overseeing the innovation delivery process: planning, prioritization, implementation, testing, and handoff; tracking milestones, identifying risks, monitoring metrics; coordinating cross‑functional teams, vendors, and technical resources.
(15%) Leading or supporting solution validation: evaluating AI models, performance testing, coordinating deployment; collaborating with DevOps, data, and cloud engineering teams; monitoring post‑launch outcomes and iterating solutions.
(5%) Assessing technology trends, evaluating emerging AI tools, reviewing cloud services, recommending strategic investments, providing reporting, analysis, and actionable recommendations.
(5%) Ensuring successful adoption: training, communication, documentation; supporting change management through stakeholder engagement and educational materials.
(5%) Collaborating with enterprise teams to support CTO‑level initiatives and other special projects.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Proven experience leading cloud, AI, or emerging technology initiatives from concept to production.
Strong knowledge of cloud platforms (Azure, AWS, GCP), SaaS, and system integration.
Experience with rapid prototyping and scaling innovations.
Expertise in project management and agile delivery frameworks (Scrum, Kanban, hybrid).
Proficiency with JIRA, Azure DevOps, ServiceNow, or similar tools.
Strong analytical skills for evaluating technology trends, creating business cases, and measuring ROI.
Excellent communication, facilitation, and stakeholder management skills.
Experience leading cross‑functional teams and vendor management.
Ability to mentor and guide teams on innovation, product management, and modernization practices.
Knowledge of public sector modernization initiatives and data‑driven decision‑making.
Preferred certifications: PMP, CSPO, SAFe Agilist, Cloud or AI‑related certifications (e.g., AWS Solution Architect, Azure AI Engineer).
Strong understanding of data‑driven decision‑making and reporting tools.
Knowledge of computer systems, design of non‑automated systems, IT equipment, programming languages, hardware and software, operating systems, writing program code, and automated mapping.
Skill in solving problems; scheduling, testing, installing, and implementing programs; troubleshooting computer systems.
Ability to analyze systems and procedures, write and revise standards and procedures, and communicate effectively.
Ability to oversee and/or supervise the work of others.
Proven ability to gather, document, and manage business and technical requirements for enterprise solutions.
Demonstrated ability to translate emerging technology potential into actionable business solutions in complex environments.
Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications N/A
Initial Screening Criteria
Bachelor's degree in computer science, Information Systems, or related field (or equivalent experience on a year‑for‑year basis).
8+ years of experience in technology innovation, systems analysis, or product delivery.
Additional Information Any employment offer is contingent upon available budgeted funds. The offered salary will be determined in accordance with budgetary limits and the requirements of HHSC Human Resources Manual.
Selected candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.
This is a hybrid position based in Austin with at least three (3) days in the office required. Selected candidate must be willing to commute to the office on the required days.
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 may include, but are 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.
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 online 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.
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.
Nearest Major Market: Austin
Seniority Level Mid‑Senior level
Employment Type Full‑time
Job Function Product Management and Marketing
Government Administration
Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Texas Health and Human Services by 2x
Get notified about new Innovation Lead jobs in Austin, TX.
#J-18808-Ljbffr