Texas Health and Human Services Commission OPT Eligible Jobs USA
Texas Health and Human Services Commission hires OPT students across public health, data analysis, social services, and healthcare administration roles. As a large state agency managing statewide health programs, it offers meaningful exposure to government healthcare operations and has a track record of supporting the OPT-to-H-1B visa transition for qualifying employees.
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Get Access To All JobsJoin 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: Staff Nurse
Job Title: Nurse I
Agency: Health & Human Services Comm
Department: PsychSecurity Direct Care
Posting Number: 16813
Closing Date: 08/09/2026
Posting Audience: Internal and External
Occupational Category: Healthcare Practitioners and Technical
Salary Range: $5,746.66 - $6,779.25
Pay Frequency: Monthly
Salary Group: TEXAS-B-20
Shift: Day
Additional Shift: Days (First); Evenings (Second); Nights (Third); Weekends
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: Kerrville State Hospital
Job Location City: KERRVILLE
Job Location Address: 721 THOMPSON DR
Other Locations: Kerrville
MOS Codes: 290X, 46AX, 46FX, 46NX, 46PX, 46SX, 46YX, 66B, 66C, 66E, 66F, 66G, 66H, 66N, 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 like yourself who are dependable, trustworthy, hard workers who believe in the value of teamwork? HSCS is dedicated to building an atmosphere where employees feel valued and supported while providing specialized care for Texans in need. HSCS 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.
The Nurse I (Staff Nurse) performs entry-level to routine (journey-level) nursing work at a competent level in the state hospital under the supervision of the Charge Nurse or Nurse Manager (Nurse II/III). Conducts comprehensive assessments of patients nursing care needs using specialized skills in an inpatient psychiatric setting. Identifies nursing diagnoses or problem lists and formulates an initial plan of care based on assessment data. Establishes unit routines and develops and maintains the therapeutic milieu. Makes observations of patient behavior and status and reports to the psychiatrist, other recovery team members, and supervising nurse, as appropriate. Carries out nursing interventions as identified in the multidisciplinary recovery plan. Administers medications as ordered and maintains medication administration and controlled drug records according to facility policy. Trains other staff members as necessary, or as requested. Works under moderate supervision, with limited latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.
Performs other duties as assigned. Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency’s obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location.
This position may be eligible to earn additional pay for work performed on evenings, nights and/or weekends.
This position may also be eligible to earn additional pay for work performed on maximum security locations.
Essential Job Functions (EJFs):
Attends work on a regular basis and may be asked to work a specific shift schedule or, at times, even a rotating schedule, extended shift and/or overtime in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.
Performs comprehensive assessment of patients' nursing care needs including physical, behavioral, psychiatric, and social needs.
Observes and analyzes patient behavior and status, and documents in the medical record or reports, as needed, to other team members, including the attending psychiatrist.
Develops or contributes to the development of the individualized recovery plan in collaboration with other recovery team members, based on data obtained from the assessment.
Provides comprehensive individual or group health teaching and coping strategies to patients and/or families in order to meet patient/family needs.
Utilizes one-to-one counseling skills in therapeutic interactions with patients to assist them in identifying anxiety and developing coping strategies.
Initiates and implements population-specific nursing interventions based on appropriate standards of care for the assigned patient population.
Administers medications and treatments as ordered by the physician and maintains medication administration (MAR) and controlled drug records according to facility policy.
Establishes and monitors the therapeutic milieu assuring a safe and therapeutic environment for the patients.
Provides training to other staff in psychiatric nursing principles, unit routines, and milieu management.
Initiates and monitors the appropriate use of restraint or seclusion to ensure the safety of the patient and staff members.
Performs other duties as assigned. Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency’s obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs):
- Knowledge of nursing techniques and procedures
- Knowledge of medical diagnoses and procedures
- Knowledge of accepted medical treatment programs
- Knowledge community health and nursing care principles, practices, and procedures
- Skills in the care and treatment of patients
- Skills in the use of a computer and applicable software
- Ability to provide patient care.
- Ability to prepare and maintain records.
- Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:
Licensed to practice as a Registered Nurse (RN) in the state of Texas, or in a party state, that recognizes reciprocity through the Nurse Licensure Compact.
Or
Issued a temporary permit to perform duties under supervision awaiting license issue.
If transporting patients, must possess a valid Texas driver license or obtain it no later than 90 days after hire date to drive a state vehicle. Applicants with an out-of-state driver license must provide an original certified driving record from the state of driving licensure. Eligible driving record required based on HHSC Fleet Management policy.
Initial Screening Criteria:
Graduation from an accredited nursing program or four-year college or university with major coursework in nursing.
Additional Information:
Applicants must pass a fingerprint criminal background check, pre-employment drug screen, and registry checks including the Client Abuse/Neglect Reporting System (CANRS), Nurse Aid, Medication Aide and Employee Misconduct, List of Excluded Individuals/Entities (LEIE). Males between the ages of 18-25 must be registered with the Selective Service.
All applicants must be at least 18 years of age to be considered for employment at a state-operated facility. Waco Center for Youth applicants must be 21 years of age.
Flexibility in work hours may be required for this position. The position may be required to work overtime and/or extended hours.
Compliance with HHSC immunization policy and state hospital operating procedures related to immunizations is required. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, healthcare workers are considered to be at significant risk for acquiring or transmitting hepatitis B, measles, mumps, rubella, varicella (chicken pox), tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), and influenza. All these diseases are vaccine preventable. As a result, state hospital policy requires employees be vaccinated according to their level of contact with individuals. In the event you choose to not be immunized for the influenza virus, you may be required to wear a mask and take other protective measures.
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.
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: Staff Nurse
Job Title: Nurse I
Agency: Health & Human Services Comm
Department: PsychSecurity Direct Care
Posting Number: 16813
Closing Date: 08/09/2026
Posting Audience: Internal and External
Occupational Category: Healthcare Practitioners and Technical
Salary Range: $5,746.66 - $6,779.25
Pay Frequency: Monthly
Salary Group: TEXAS-B-20
Shift: Day
Additional Shift: Days (First); Evenings (Second); Nights (Third); Weekends
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: Kerrville State Hospital
Job Location City: KERRVILLE
Job Location Address: 721 THOMPSON DR
Other Locations: Kerrville
MOS Codes: 290X, 46AX, 46FX, 46NX, 46PX, 46SX, 46YX, 66B, 66C, 66E, 66F, 66G, 66H, 66N, 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 like yourself who are dependable, trustworthy, hard workers who believe in the value of teamwork? HSCS is dedicated to building an atmosphere where employees feel valued and supported while providing specialized care for Texans in need. HSCS 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.
The Nurse I (Staff Nurse) performs entry-level to routine (journey-level) nursing work at a competent level in the state hospital under the supervision of the Charge Nurse or Nurse Manager (Nurse II/III). Conducts comprehensive assessments of patients nursing care needs using specialized skills in an inpatient psychiatric setting. Identifies nursing diagnoses or problem lists and formulates an initial plan of care based on assessment data. Establishes unit routines and develops and maintains the therapeutic milieu. Makes observations of patient behavior and status and reports to the psychiatrist, other recovery team members, and supervising nurse, as appropriate. Carries out nursing interventions as identified in the multidisciplinary recovery plan. Administers medications as ordered and maintains medication administration and controlled drug records according to facility policy. Trains other staff members as necessary, or as requested. Works under moderate supervision, with limited latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.
Performs other duties as assigned. Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency’s obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location.
This position may be eligible to earn additional pay for work performed on evenings, nights and/or weekends.
This position may also be eligible to earn additional pay for work performed on maximum security locations.
Essential Job Functions (EJFs):
Attends work on a regular basis and may be asked to work a specific shift schedule or, at times, even a rotating schedule, extended shift and/or overtime in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.
Performs comprehensive assessment of patients' nursing care needs including physical, behavioral, psychiatric, and social needs.
Observes and analyzes patient behavior and status, and documents in the medical record or reports, as needed, to other team members, including the attending psychiatrist.
Develops or contributes to the development of the individualized recovery plan in collaboration with other recovery team members, based on data obtained from the assessment.
Provides comprehensive individual or group health teaching and coping strategies to patients and/or families in order to meet patient/family needs.
Utilizes one-to-one counseling skills in therapeutic interactions with patients to assist them in identifying anxiety and developing coping strategies.
Initiates and implements population-specific nursing interventions based on appropriate standards of care for the assigned patient population.
Administers medications and treatments as ordered by the physician and maintains medication administration (MAR) and controlled drug records according to facility policy.
Establishes and monitors the therapeutic milieu assuring a safe and therapeutic environment for the patients.
Provides training to other staff in psychiatric nursing principles, unit routines, and milieu management.
Initiates and monitors the appropriate use of restraint or seclusion to ensure the safety of the patient and staff members.
Performs other duties as assigned. Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency’s obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs):
- Knowledge of nursing techniques and procedures
- Knowledge of medical diagnoses and procedures
- Knowledge of accepted medical treatment programs
- Knowledge community health and nursing care principles, practices, and procedures
- Skills in the care and treatment of patients
- Skills in the use of a computer and applicable software
- Ability to provide patient care.
- Ability to prepare and maintain records.
- Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:
Licensed to practice as a Registered Nurse (RN) in the state of Texas, or in a party state, that recognizes reciprocity through the Nurse Licensure Compact.
Or
Issued a temporary permit to perform duties under supervision awaiting license issue.
If transporting patients, must possess a valid Texas driver license or obtain it no later than 90 days after hire date to drive a state vehicle. Applicants with an out-of-state driver license must provide an original certified driving record from the state of driving licensure. Eligible driving record required based on HHSC Fleet Management policy.
Initial Screening Criteria:
Graduation from an accredited nursing program or four-year college or university with major coursework in nursing.
Additional Information:
Applicants must pass a fingerprint criminal background check, pre-employment drug screen, and registry checks including the Client Abuse/Neglect Reporting System (CANRS), Nurse Aid, Medication Aide and Employee Misconduct, List of Excluded Individuals/Entities (LEIE). Males between the ages of 18-25 must be registered with the Selective Service.
All applicants must be at least 18 years of age to be considered for employment at a state-operated facility. Waco Center for Youth applicants must be 21 years of age.
Flexibility in work hours may be required for this position. The position may be required to work overtime and/or extended hours.
Compliance with HHSC immunization policy and state hospital operating procedures related to immunizations is required. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, healthcare workers are considered to be at significant risk for acquiring or transmitting hepatitis B, measles, mumps, rubella, varicella (chicken pox), tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), and influenza. All these diseases are vaccine preventable. As a result, state hospital policy requires employees be vaccinated according to their level of contact with individuals. In the event you choose to not be immunized for the influenza virus, you may be required to wear a mask and take other protective measures.
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.
Job Roles at Texas Health and Human Services Commission
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Texas Health and Human Services Commission OPT Eligible Jobs USA
Target roles with specialty occupation alignment
Healthcare administration, epidemiology, data analytics, and public health policy roles at HHSC are most likely to support an H-1B later. Choose a position where your degree directly matches the job title, this matters when USCIS reviews the specialty occupation requirement.
Confirm E-Verify enrollment before accepting
STEM OPT's 24-month extension requires your employer to be enrolled in E-Verify. Ask the recruiter or HR contact to confirm HHSC's E-Verify status before you sign an offer, not after, delays here can affect your extension timeline.
Build your application around government healthcare experience
HHSC reviewers prioritize candidates who demonstrate familiarity with Medicaid, public health programs, or state agency operations. Frame your resume around policy impact and program outcomes, not just technical skills, to align with how state healthcare employers evaluate OPT candidates.
Use Migrate Mate to research HHSC's H-1B filing history
Before applying, check which job titles HHSC has sponsored for H-1B using Migrate Mate. This shows you whether your target role has a clear path beyond OPT and helps you ask informed questions during the offer stage.
Negotiate your start date around your OPT EAD
State agencies often have slower onboarding than private employers. Request a start date no earlier than your EAD card's validity date and confirm the date in writing. USCIS processes EAD cards independently, so build buffer time into any offer negotiation.
Document your specialty occupation case early
If HHSC eventually files an H-1B for you, a clear connection between your degree and your job duties strengthens the petition. Keep a running record of projects, responsibilities, and any internal role descriptions that demonstrate specialized knowledge throughout your OPT period.
Texas Health and Human Services Commission OPT Eligibility: Frequently Asked Questions
Does Texas Health and Human Services Commission sponsor OPT visas?
HHSC doesn't sponsor OPT directly, OPT is work authorization USCIS grants to F-1 students, not a petition employers file. What HHSC does is hire students who already hold a valid OPT EAD. For the STEM OPT 24-month extension, HHSC must be enrolled in E-Verify and sign a training plan with you.
Which roles at HHSC typically hire OPT students?
HHSC most commonly hires OPT students into data analyst, public health specialist, policy analyst, and healthcare program coordinator roles. These positions align with degrees in public health, statistics, health informatics, and social sciences, making them a natural fit for F-1 students on OPT seeking government healthcare experience.
How do I start the OPT employment process at HHSC?
Apply through HHSC's official jobs portal and disclose your OPT status during the offer stage. Bring your EAD card and I-20 to onboarding. For STEM OPT, you'll also need your DSO to update your SEVIS record and complete a formal training plan with your HHSC supervisor before the extension takes effect.
Does HHSC support the transition from OPT to H-1B?
HHSC has H-1B filing history, which means a transition is possible for roles that qualify as specialty occupations. Use Migrate Mate to review which positions HHSC has sponsored before. The decision is made role-by-role and depends on budget approval, so raising the H-1B question early in the offer conversation improves your odds.
How do I know if my HHSC role qualifies for STEM OPT extension?
Your degree must appear on the DHS STEM designated degree program list, and your role must require and directly use that degree. Cross-reference your job title with O*NET to confirm the occupation's educational requirements. USCIS reviews the degree-to-job alignment when processing your STEM OPT extension, so the match must be clear and documented.
How does Texas Health and Human Services Commission hire OPT students?
OPT is work authorization granted directly to F-1 students after graduation — no employer petition is required. Texas Health and Human Services Commission can hire OPT students as soon as their EAD card is approved. STEM degree holders can extend OPT by 24 months when their employer is enrolled in E-Verify. Most companies that hire OPT students also support the transition to H-1B when the student's OPT period is ending. Check Texas Health and Human Services Commission's individual postings on Migrate Mate to confirm OPT acceptance per role.