Nursing Jobs at Texas Health and Human Services Commission with Visa Sponsorship
Nursing jobs at Texas Health and Human Services Commission span clinical, public health, and case management functions throughout Texas state facilities. For international nursing candidates, the agency has an established path for H-1B visa sponsorship, making it a viable target if you hold the right licensure and specialty credentials.
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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: Psychiatric Nursing Assistant II
Job Title: Psychiatric Nursing Asst II
Agency: Health & Human Services Comm
Department: Adm AcuteCarePsych Direct Car
Posting Number: 17568
Closing Date: 09/01/2026
Posting Audience: Internal and External
Occupational Category: Healthcare Support
Salary Range: $3,047.58 - $4,149.83
Pay Frequency: Monthly
Salary Group: TEXAS-A-12
Shift: Day
Additional Shift: Days (First); Evenings (Second); Nights (Third)
Telework: Not Eligible for Telework
Travel: Up to 5%
Regular/Temporary: Regular
Full Time/Part Time: Full time
FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt
Facility Location: Terrell State Hospital
Job Location City: TERRELL
Job Location Address: 1200 E BRIN
Other Locations: Terrell
MOS Codes: 4C0X1,68X,HM
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 ten psychiatric hospitals, two youth residential treatment facilities, 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 Psychiatric Nursing Assistant II (PNA II) performs moderately complex (journey-level) rehabilitative patient care services work. Provides patient care services under the clinical supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN) to provide quality psychiatric nursing care in an inpatient setting. Work involves providing emergency, health, and personal care services to patients; interacting with patients therapeutically; observing, reporting, and documenting, in an electronic record, patient conditions and behaviors; and participating in individualized and unit-based programming. The PNA II has a primary responsibility to maintain direct and ongoing therapeutic interactions with patients to promote living and social skills, thus encouraging progress towards a lesser restrictive environment than the hospital. As an integral member of the recovery team, provides verbal and supportive documentation concerning individual patient behaviors, progress towards individualized goals of the recovery plan. Participates in shift reports and recovery team meetings. Performs delegated nursing duties commensurate with competency. May provide guidance to the PNA Is. Works under general supervision, with limited latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Completion of work requires the performance of moderately complex duties, while decision making is based on well-defined guidelines. The PNA II has no financial responsibility but is accountable for assigned property. Must understand that duties, location of work, and shift patterns are subject to change as determined by the administration to meet the needs of the hospital. Must understand that duties may include exposure to blood or other potentially infectious materials. This employee has full access to a limited set of records in accordance with HIPPA regulations.
Performs other duties as assigned by the supervisor to ensure efficient operation of the patient care unit. 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.
Takes an active role in the implementation of the individualized recovery plans and offers consistent, ongoing support in assisting patients with reaching their goals. Uses therapeutic, person-centered communication skills in promptly and effectively engaging patients. Assists with activities of daily living, hygiene, and eating to promote independence and self-care. Accompanies patient to appointments as required.
Communicates effectively with other team members to promote a positive workplace.
Serves as a participant in the recovery team or admissions team. Provides ongoing collaborative verbal and written communication concerning patients.
Uses basic computer skills, documentation skills, and reporting procedures to communicate patient care information clearly and concisely in a timely manner.
Assists the licensed nurse in monitoring patients for medication administration or treatment. Includes taking and monitoring vital signs and performing other assigned tasks within competency level.
Proactively promotes safety through continuous environmental awareness and positive engagement of patients to minimize unsafe situations and injuries.
Promotes classes and programs offered and encourages patient participation. Co-facilitates groups as assigned or requested.
Responds in crisis or psychiatric emergency situations using the least restrictive intervention necessary by applying Treatment Intervention Protection Strategies (TIPS) including verbal de-escalation under the direct supervision of a RN to ensure the health and safety of all persons.
Performs CPR/Heimlich techniques and use of an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) correctly and safely according to the specifications of the American Heart Association.
Provides RN with timely, clinically relevant patient information (such as possible side effects of medication, disease/injury, behavioral escalation) gained by direct observation/interaction with patients to promote safety.
In the absence of the PNA III and IV, provides guidance and preceptorship, as requested, to the PNAs in the performance of duties assigned by an RN to maintain smooth, efficient provision of patient care.
Serves in both unit-based and hospital-wide committees as appointed, contributing to interdisciplinary efforts focused on quality improvement, patient safety, and strategic planning. Responsibilities include attending regular meetings, collaborating with team members, and offering insights to enhance patient care and support departmental goals.
Performs other duties as assigned by the supervisor to ensure efficient operation of the patient care unit. 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.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs):
- Knowledge of patient care techniques and of treatment, therapy, developmental, and patient centered recovery programs.
- Knowledge of basic computer skills.
- Knowledge of effective interpersonal and leadership skills and ability to interact with other team members utilizing effective interpersonal skills.
- Skills in taking vital signs.
- Ability to read, write and understand English to effectively communicate and carry out verbal and written instructions.
- Ability to provide patient care, administer first aid or cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and to conduct TIPS.
- Ability to work with others and accept supervision.
- Ability to train and provide guidance to others.
Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:
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.
CPR certification or the ability to obtain certification for CPR within the first 60 days of employment.
Initial Screening Criteria:
Twelve (12) months’ work experience.
Twelve (12) months of direct care experience is preferred.
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, and 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 and Terrell Center for Youth applicants must be at least 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 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. 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: Psychiatric Nursing Assistant II
Job Title: Psychiatric Nursing Asst II
Agency: Health & Human Services Comm
Department: Adm AcuteCarePsych Direct Car
Posting Number: 17568
Closing Date: 09/01/2026
Posting Audience: Internal and External
Occupational Category: Healthcare Support
Salary Range: $3,047.58 - $4,149.83
Pay Frequency: Monthly
Salary Group: TEXAS-A-12
Shift: Day
Additional Shift: Days (First); Evenings (Second); Nights (Third)
Telework: Not Eligible for Telework
Travel: Up to 5%
Regular/Temporary: Regular
Full Time/Part Time: Full time
FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt
Facility Location: Terrell State Hospital
Job Location City: TERRELL
Job Location Address: 1200 E BRIN
Other Locations: Terrell
MOS Codes: 4C0X1,68X,HM
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 ten psychiatric hospitals, two youth residential treatment facilities, 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 Psychiatric Nursing Assistant II (PNA II) performs moderately complex (journey-level) rehabilitative patient care services work. Provides patient care services under the clinical supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN) to provide quality psychiatric nursing care in an inpatient setting. Work involves providing emergency, health, and personal care services to patients; interacting with patients therapeutically; observing, reporting, and documenting, in an electronic record, patient conditions and behaviors; and participating in individualized and unit-based programming. The PNA II has a primary responsibility to maintain direct and ongoing therapeutic interactions with patients to promote living and social skills, thus encouraging progress towards a lesser restrictive environment than the hospital. As an integral member of the recovery team, provides verbal and supportive documentation concerning individual patient behaviors, progress towards individualized goals of the recovery plan. Participates in shift reports and recovery team meetings. Performs delegated nursing duties commensurate with competency. May provide guidance to the PNA Is. Works under general supervision, with limited latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Completion of work requires the performance of moderately complex duties, while decision making is based on well-defined guidelines. The PNA II has no financial responsibility but is accountable for assigned property. Must understand that duties, location of work, and shift patterns are subject to change as determined by the administration to meet the needs of the hospital. Must understand that duties may include exposure to blood or other potentially infectious materials. This employee has full access to a limited set of records in accordance with HIPPA regulations.
Performs other duties as assigned by the supervisor to ensure efficient operation of the patient care unit. 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.
Takes an active role in the implementation of the individualized recovery plans and offers consistent, ongoing support in assisting patients with reaching their goals. Uses therapeutic, person-centered communication skills in promptly and effectively engaging patients. Assists with activities of daily living, hygiene, and eating to promote independence and self-care. Accompanies patient to appointments as required.
Communicates effectively with other team members to promote a positive workplace.
Serves as a participant in the recovery team or admissions team. Provides ongoing collaborative verbal and written communication concerning patients.
Uses basic computer skills, documentation skills, and reporting procedures to communicate patient care information clearly and concisely in a timely manner.
Assists the licensed nurse in monitoring patients for medication administration or treatment. Includes taking and monitoring vital signs and performing other assigned tasks within competency level.
Proactively promotes safety through continuous environmental awareness and positive engagement of patients to minimize unsafe situations and injuries.
Promotes classes and programs offered and encourages patient participation. Co-facilitates groups as assigned or requested.
Responds in crisis or psychiatric emergency situations using the least restrictive intervention necessary by applying Treatment Intervention Protection Strategies (TIPS) including verbal de-escalation under the direct supervision of a RN to ensure the health and safety of all persons.
Performs CPR/Heimlich techniques and use of an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) correctly and safely according to the specifications of the American Heart Association.
Provides RN with timely, clinically relevant patient information (such as possible side effects of medication, disease/injury, behavioral escalation) gained by direct observation/interaction with patients to promote safety.
In the absence of the PNA III and IV, provides guidance and preceptorship, as requested, to the PNAs in the performance of duties assigned by an RN to maintain smooth, efficient provision of patient care.
Serves in both unit-based and hospital-wide committees as appointed, contributing to interdisciplinary efforts focused on quality improvement, patient safety, and strategic planning. Responsibilities include attending regular meetings, collaborating with team members, and offering insights to enhance patient care and support departmental goals.
Performs other duties as assigned by the supervisor to ensure efficient operation of the patient care unit. 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.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs):
- Knowledge of patient care techniques and of treatment, therapy, developmental, and patient centered recovery programs.
- Knowledge of basic computer skills.
- Knowledge of effective interpersonal and leadership skills and ability to interact with other team members utilizing effective interpersonal skills.
- Skills in taking vital signs.
- Ability to read, write and understand English to effectively communicate and carry out verbal and written instructions.
- Ability to provide patient care, administer first aid or cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and to conduct TIPS.
- Ability to work with others and accept supervision.
- Ability to train and provide guidance to others.
Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:
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.
CPR certification or the ability to obtain certification for CPR within the first 60 days of employment.
Initial Screening Criteria:
Twelve (12) months’ work experience.
Twelve (12) months of direct care experience is preferred.
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, and 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 and Terrell Center for Youth applicants must be at least 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 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. 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.
Tips for Finding Nursing Jobs at Texas Health and Human Services Commission
Get Your Texas Nursing License Early
Texas requires RN licensure through the Texas Board of Nursing before you can start. Begin the endorsement or NCLEX process well ahead of any application, since credential review for internationally trained nurses can take several months.
Target State Agency Job Portals Directly
Texas Health and Human Services Commission posts openings through the Texas state jobs system at WorkInTexas.com. Filtering by nursing classification and agency name surfaces roles before they appear on aggregator sites, giving you a faster lead on active requisitions.
Clarify Sponsorship Willingness Before Interviews
State agencies run structured hiring processes, so ask your HR contact directly whether H-1B sponsorship is available for the specific position during the early screening stage. Not every nursing vacancy at HHSC carries the same sponsorship approval from the agency's legal team.
Use Migrate Mate to Find Verified Sponsoring Roles
Search Migrate Mate to identify current nursing openings at Texas Health and Human Services Commission that are tied to documented H-1B sponsorship history. This narrows your applications to roles where sponsorship is a realistic outcome, not just a possibility.
Understand H-1B Cap Exemption for Government Entities
Texas Health and Human Services Commission is a government entity, which means H-1B petitions filed on its behalf may qualify for cap exemption under USCIS rules. Confirm this with the agency's HR or legal team, since cap-exempt status removes lottery risk from your timeline.
Align Your Specialty to Current HHSC Workforce Gaps
HHSC consistently recruits for psychiatric, public health, and correctional nursing roles across Texas. Tailoring your resume and cover letter to these high-demand specialties increases your visibility in their applicant pool and signals a clear fit for the agency's operational priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Texas Health and Human Services Commission sponsor H-1B visas for Nursings?
Yes, Texas Health and Human Services Commission does sponsor H-1B visas for qualifying nursing roles. As a state government agency, HHSC may also qualify to file cap-exempt H-1B petitions through USCIS, which removes the annual lottery from the equation. Sponsorship availability varies by role and facility, so confirming directly with HR during the application process is the most reliable approach.
How do I apply for Nursing jobs at Texas Health and Human Services Commission?
Applications go through the Texas state government jobs portal at WorkInTexas.com, where HHSC posts active nursing vacancies. You'll need a current Texas RN license or a license in process before applying. Once you identify a role, submit your application through the portal and indicate your need for visa sponsorship during the HR screening stage so the agency's legal team can confirm sponsorship eligibility for that specific position.
Which visa types are commonly used for Nursing roles at Texas Health and Human Services Commission?
The H-1B is the primary visa category HHSC uses for sponsored nursing positions, as registered nursing qualifies as a specialty occupation under USCIS guidelines. Some internationally trained nurses also enter on TN visas if they are Canadian or Mexican citizens, or on immigrant visa pathways like the EB-3 if pursuing permanent residence. The right category depends on your nationality, credentials, and whether the employer is willing to sponsor long-term.
What qualifications does Texas Health and Human Services Commission expect for sponsored Nursing roles?
HHSC requires a current and unrestricted Texas RN license for most nursing positions. For internationally educated nurses, the agency expects your credentials to be evaluated and your NCLEX passed before a start date. Specialized roles in psychiatric, public health, or correctional settings may require additional certifications or prior experience in those settings, which strengthens both your candidacy and the sponsorship case the agency presents to USCIS.
How do I find Nursing jobs at Texas Health and Human Services Commission that include visa sponsorship?
Migrate Mate is the most direct way to browse nursing openings at Texas Health and Human Services Commission that are linked to H-1B sponsorship history. Rather than applying broadly and hoping sponsorship is available, you can filter to roles where HHSC has an established record of filing for international candidates, which makes your job search significantly more targeted and efficient.