Regional Communication Specialist at Texas Department of State Health Services
Date: 21 hours ago
City: Arlington, TX
Salary:
$4,801.16
-
$6,000
per month
Contract type: Full time
Date: Jan 9, 2026
Location:
ARLINGTON, TX
DSHS is committed to hiring skilled and dedicated individuals who share a passion for public health to pursue our vision of A Healthy Texas. If you are looking to make an impact and tackle new challenges, we encourage you to consider a career with us.
Employee Benefits
DSHS offers insurance coverage and other benefits available through the State of Texas Group Benefits Plan administered by the Employee Retirement System of Texas (ERS). To learn more about all the benefits available to you as a DSHS employee and other DSHS opportunities for early career pathways, visit the DSHS Careers Page.
Review our Top 10 Tips for Success when Applying to State of Texas Jobs.
Functional Title: Regional Communication Specialist
Job Title: Information Specialist IV
Agency: Dept of State Health Services
Department: Region 2/3
Posting Number: 12487
Closing Date: 01/23/2026
Posting Audience: Internal and External
Occupational Category: Arts, Design, Entertainment, Sports, Media
Salary Group: TEXAS-B-22
Salary Range: $4,801.16 - $6,000.00
Pay Frequency: Monthly
Shift: Day
Additional Shift
Telework: Not Eligible for Telework
Travel: Up to 30%
Regular/Temporary: Regular
Full Time/Part Time: Full time
FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt
Facility Location:
Job Location City: ARLINGTON
Job Location Address: 1301 S BOWEN RD STE 200
Other Locations:
MOS Codes: 4502,4503,4505,4511,4512,4591,8055,165X,35PX,3N0X6,46A,46S,46Z,INF,MC,PA,SEI13
Brief Job Description
Under the supervision of the Public Health Improvement Strategies and Operations Manager, the Information Specialist IV performs advance (senior-level) informational and communication work. Work includes developing, planning, coordinating, evaluating, and participating in regional communication needs including newsletters, publications, fact sheets and more. The Information Specialist IV will coordinate, prepare, implement and manage the Public Health Region 2/3 (PHR 2/3) strategic communication plans. This position serves as the PHR 2/3 communications liaison between the region and DSHS communications. Will coordinate community engagement throughout the region and engage in special assignments as needed. Work under limited supervision, with considerable latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Actively participates and/or serves in a supporting role to meet the agency’s obligations for continuity of operation during public health emergency response and recovery. Must comply with HHS, DSHS, Texas Department of Public Safety applicable policies/procedures standards. Must be able to independently travel throughout the State of Texas to complete essential job functions. This position is office-based, Monday - Friday, 8:00am to 5:00pm.
Essential Job Functions (EJFs)
Attends work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.
COMMUNICATIONS MANAGEMENT AND EVALUATION: Coordinates and evaluates the preparation and distribution of regional publications, newsletters, fact sheets, and more. Coordinates the illustrative, photographic, or audiovisual content of products utilizing agency-issued equipment. Analyzes content for accessibility and recommends changes to make content accessible and remediates accessibility issues. Ensures all public facing communication materials including but not limited to presentations, fliers, and handouts follow DSHS branding and guidelines, including but not limited to plain language. Obtains art and photographs for presentations and publications. Posts content that has been approved by regional leadership through DSHS communication platforms including but not limited to agency website. Coordinates and monitors updates to regional page on DSHS agency website. Develops, implements, evaluates, and monitors regional communication strategies and provides recommendations for improvement. Develops, implements, evaluated, and monitors regional communication initiatives and activities. Monitors regional communication to ensure compliance with applicable policies and coordinates with program management and regional leadership as needed. Must be able to independently travel throughout the state of Texas to complete essential job functions. (45%)
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: Develops, implements, and evaluates regional community engagement and special event processes as appropriate. Coordinates and participates with internal partners on special events. Coordinates with internal and external partners on participation, registration, materials, and topics as it relates to community engagement and special events. Must be able to independently travel throughout the state of Texas to complete essential job functions. (30%)
COMMUNICATIONS LIAISON: Serves as the primary PHR 2/3 liaison with DSHS Communications. Coordinates with internal partners to help achieve PHR 2/3 programmatic visions for all public facing communication materials. Must be able to independently travel throughout the state of Texas to complete essential job functions. (15%)
SPECIAL PROJECTS: Participates in regional assignments/duties/special initiatives. Writes and submits reports, assignments, and special initiatives requested by program management, regional leadership, or Texas Department of State Health Services. Must be able to independently travel throughout the state of Texas to complete essential job functions. (5%)
REGIONAL DISASTER RESPONSE/RECOVERY: Actively participates and/or serves in a supporting role to meet the agency’s obligations for continuity of operations activation during disaster response and recovery. Requires completion at minimum Incident Command System 100, 200, 700 and 800 courses. Required to work other than normal business hours, an alternate shift pattern and/or locations in order to respond to public health emergencies. Must be able to independently travel throughout the State of Texas and out-of-state to complete essential job functions. Maintains compliance with DSHS Policies and HHS Fleet Operations and Management Procedures and Standards, and a current valid Texas Driver’s License. (5%)
Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities (KSAs)
KNOWLEDGE OF: Public health. Local, state, and federal laws and regulations relevant to program areas. General professional writing
principles and standards. Plain Language. Editing and preparing informational materials. Publishing and broadcast industries. Basic HTML. Computerized telecommunications systems including email and Microsoft office computer programs. Computer use and applicable software such as Adobe Illustrator/InDesign, Microsoft Publisher, Microsoft Office, and/or similar.
SKILL IN: Editorial and design concepts and practices. Using a personable and approachable verbal communication style. Attentive and
active listening. Strategic planning and collaborations to achieve objectives. Writing technical and routine correspondence and reports for a
variety of audiences including agency administration, internal and external partners. Use of a computer and applicable software such as
Adobe Illustrator/InDesign, Microsoft Publisher, Microsoft Office, and/or similar. Researching, planning, developing and evaluating
communications materials. Managing multiple priorities and deadlines.
ABILITY TO: Write clearly and succinctly in a variety of communication settings and styles. Think creatively and support creative thinking in
others. Think strategically about communications. Research and prepare information. Apply time management principles to tasks. Design
communication plans and materials related to the goals and priorities of the agency. Compose usable content for the regional page on agency
website. Design broad communications plans and materials. Communicate, organize and present information effectively verbally and in
writing. Effectively communicate complex information to a variety of individuals or groups. Engage in professional development to maintain
and enhance proficiency. Maintain effective working relationships with internal and external partners using tact and diplomacy. Work well and effectively in a team environment. Independently travel throughout the State of Texas to complete essential job functions.
Registration, Licennsure Requirements Or Certifications
Valid Texas Class C Driver’s License or equivalent license from another state.
Inital Screening Critera
Application indicates graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major course work in public health, journalism, communications, public relations, English or a communications-related field.
Application indicates at least 2 years’ experience in communications, web content, social media content or communication strategy execution including internships or leadership of university clubs/organizations.
Application indicates they can travel at least 30% for completion of essential job functions.
Application indicates experience related to public health (preferred but not required).
Additional Information
The hiring manager will request a portfolio of written work and completion of two in-basket assignments as part of criteria for interview selection. Quality of the portfolio and in-basket assignments will determine whether candidates are selected for interviews.
Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of an application but may be provided as supplemental materials. All fields on the application must be filled-in completely. Applicants must provide information relevant to the required experience for this position in the job history sections of the application. Information on application must clearly state how applicant meets initial selection criteria in the summary of experience section of the application.
Prior to beginning employment, employees/applicants who indicate they hold a degree from an institution of higher education must provide an original college transcript indicating they earned a Bachelors degree from a US college or university or foreign degree determined to be equivalent by an acceptable education evaluator.
Employee must provide transportation. If an employee operates a personal or state motor vehicle in performance of their official duties, the employee must possess a current valid Texas Driver License for the appropriate type vehicle.
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 for this position. For more information see the Texas State Auditor’s Military Crosswalk at https://hr.sao.texas.gov/CompensationSystem/JobDescriptions/.
ADA Accommodations
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), DSHS will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring process for individuals with a qualifying disability. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the interview process, please notify the person who contacts you to schedule the interview. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747 or via email at [email protected].
Salary Information, Pre-employment Checks, And Work Eligibility
Nearest Secondary Market: Dallas
Location:
ARLINGTON, TX
DSHS is committed to hiring skilled and dedicated individuals who share a passion for public health to pursue our vision of A Healthy Texas. If you are looking to make an impact and tackle new challenges, we encourage you to consider a career with us.
Employee Benefits
DSHS offers insurance coverage and other benefits available through the State of Texas Group Benefits Plan administered by the Employee Retirement System of Texas (ERS). To learn more about all the benefits available to you as a DSHS employee and other DSHS opportunities for early career pathways, visit the DSHS Careers Page.
Review our Top 10 Tips for Success when Applying to State of Texas Jobs.
Functional Title: Regional Communication Specialist
Job Title: Information Specialist IV
Agency: Dept of State Health Services
Department: Region 2/3
Posting Number: 12487
Closing Date: 01/23/2026
Posting Audience: Internal and External
Occupational Category: Arts, Design, Entertainment, Sports, Media
Salary Group: TEXAS-B-22
Salary Range: $4,801.16 - $6,000.00
Pay Frequency: Monthly
Shift: Day
Additional Shift
Telework: Not Eligible for Telework
Travel: Up to 30%
Regular/Temporary: Regular
Full Time/Part Time: Full time
FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt
Facility Location:
Job Location City: ARLINGTON
Job Location Address: 1301 S BOWEN RD STE 200
Other Locations:
MOS Codes: 4502,4503,4505,4511,4512,4591,8055,165X,35PX,3N0X6,46A,46S,46Z,INF,MC,PA,SEI13
Brief Job Description
Under the supervision of the Public Health Improvement Strategies and Operations Manager, the Information Specialist IV performs advance (senior-level) informational and communication work. Work includes developing, planning, coordinating, evaluating, and participating in regional communication needs including newsletters, publications, fact sheets and more. The Information Specialist IV will coordinate, prepare, implement and manage the Public Health Region 2/3 (PHR 2/3) strategic communication plans. This position serves as the PHR 2/3 communications liaison between the region and DSHS communications. Will coordinate community engagement throughout the region and engage in special assignments as needed. Work under limited supervision, with considerable latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Actively participates and/or serves in a supporting role to meet the agency’s obligations for continuity of operation during public health emergency response and recovery. Must comply with HHS, DSHS, Texas Department of Public Safety applicable policies/procedures standards. Must be able to independently travel throughout the State of Texas to complete essential job functions. This position is office-based, Monday - Friday, 8:00am to 5:00pm.
Essential Job Functions (EJFs)
Attends work on a regular and predictable schedule in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.
COMMUNICATIONS MANAGEMENT AND EVALUATION: Coordinates and evaluates the preparation and distribution of regional publications, newsletters, fact sheets, and more. Coordinates the illustrative, photographic, or audiovisual content of products utilizing agency-issued equipment. Analyzes content for accessibility and recommends changes to make content accessible and remediates accessibility issues. Ensures all public facing communication materials including but not limited to presentations, fliers, and handouts follow DSHS branding and guidelines, including but not limited to plain language. Obtains art and photographs for presentations and publications. Posts content that has been approved by regional leadership through DSHS communication platforms including but not limited to agency website. Coordinates and monitors updates to regional page on DSHS agency website. Develops, implements, evaluates, and monitors regional communication strategies and provides recommendations for improvement. Develops, implements, evaluated, and monitors regional communication initiatives and activities. Monitors regional communication to ensure compliance with applicable policies and coordinates with program management and regional leadership as needed. Must be able to independently travel throughout the state of Texas to complete essential job functions. (45%)
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: Develops, implements, and evaluates regional community engagement and special event processes as appropriate. Coordinates and participates with internal partners on special events. Coordinates with internal and external partners on participation, registration, materials, and topics as it relates to community engagement and special events. Must be able to independently travel throughout the state of Texas to complete essential job functions. (30%)
COMMUNICATIONS LIAISON: Serves as the primary PHR 2/3 liaison with DSHS Communications. Coordinates with internal partners to help achieve PHR 2/3 programmatic visions for all public facing communication materials. Must be able to independently travel throughout the state of Texas to complete essential job functions. (15%)
SPECIAL PROJECTS: Participates in regional assignments/duties/special initiatives. Writes and submits reports, assignments, and special initiatives requested by program management, regional leadership, or Texas Department of State Health Services. Must be able to independently travel throughout the state of Texas to complete essential job functions. (5%)
REGIONAL DISASTER RESPONSE/RECOVERY: Actively participates and/or serves in a supporting role to meet the agency’s obligations for continuity of operations activation during disaster response and recovery. Requires completion at minimum Incident Command System 100, 200, 700 and 800 courses. Required to work other than normal business hours, an alternate shift pattern and/or locations in order to respond to public health emergencies. Must be able to independently travel throughout the State of Texas and out-of-state to complete essential job functions. Maintains compliance with DSHS Policies and HHS Fleet Operations and Management Procedures and Standards, and a current valid Texas Driver’s License. (5%)
Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities (KSAs)
KNOWLEDGE OF: Public health. Local, state, and federal laws and regulations relevant to program areas. General professional writing
principles and standards. Plain Language. Editing and preparing informational materials. Publishing and broadcast industries. Basic HTML. Computerized telecommunications systems including email and Microsoft office computer programs. Computer use and applicable software such as Adobe Illustrator/InDesign, Microsoft Publisher, Microsoft Office, and/or similar.
SKILL IN: Editorial and design concepts and practices. Using a personable and approachable verbal communication style. Attentive and
active listening. Strategic planning and collaborations to achieve objectives. Writing technical and routine correspondence and reports for a
variety of audiences including agency administration, internal and external partners. Use of a computer and applicable software such as
Adobe Illustrator/InDesign, Microsoft Publisher, Microsoft Office, and/or similar. Researching, planning, developing and evaluating
communications materials. Managing multiple priorities and deadlines.
ABILITY TO: Write clearly and succinctly in a variety of communication settings and styles. Think creatively and support creative thinking in
others. Think strategically about communications. Research and prepare information. Apply time management principles to tasks. Design
communication plans and materials related to the goals and priorities of the agency. Compose usable content for the regional page on agency
website. Design broad communications plans and materials. Communicate, organize and present information effectively verbally and in
writing. Effectively communicate complex information to a variety of individuals or groups. Engage in professional development to maintain
and enhance proficiency. Maintain effective working relationships with internal and external partners using tact and diplomacy. Work well and effectively in a team environment. Independently travel throughout the State of Texas to complete essential job functions.
Registration, Licennsure Requirements Or Certifications
Valid Texas Class C Driver’s License or equivalent license from another state.
Inital Screening Critera
Application indicates graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major course work in public health, journalism, communications, public relations, English or a communications-related field.
Application indicates at least 2 years’ experience in communications, web content, social media content or communication strategy execution including internships or leadership of university clubs/organizations.
Application indicates they can travel at least 30% for completion of essential job functions.
Application indicates experience related to public health (preferred but not required).
Additional Information
The hiring manager will request a portfolio of written work and completion of two in-basket assignments as part of criteria for interview selection. Quality of the portfolio and in-basket assignments will determine whether candidates are selected for interviews.
Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of an application but may be provided as supplemental materials. All fields on the application must be filled-in completely. Applicants must provide information relevant to the required experience for this position in the job history sections of the application. Information on application must clearly state how applicant meets initial selection criteria in the summary of experience section of the application.
Prior to beginning employment, employees/applicants who indicate they hold a degree from an institution of higher education must provide an original college transcript indicating they earned a Bachelors degree from a US college or university or foreign degree determined to be equivalent by an acceptable education evaluator.
Employee must provide transportation. If an employee operates a personal or state motor vehicle in performance of their official duties, the employee must possess a current valid Texas Driver License for the appropriate type vehicle.
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 for this position. For more information see the Texas State Auditor’s Military Crosswalk at https://hr.sao.texas.gov/CompensationSystem/JobDescriptions/.
ADA Accommodations
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), DSHS will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring process for individuals with a qualifying disability. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the interview process, please notify the person who contacts you to schedule the interview. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747 or via email at [email protected].
Salary Information, Pre-employment Checks, And Work Eligibility
- The salary offered will follow DSHS starting salary guidelines. Any employment offer is contingent upon available budgeted funds.
- Depending on the program area and position requirements, applicants selected for hire may be required to pass background and other due diligence checks.
- DSHS uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Download the I-9 form
Nearest Secondary Market: Dallas
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