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 IV
Job Title: Psychiatric Nursing Asst IV
Agency: Health & Human Services Comm
Department: Adm AcuteCarePsych Direct Car
Posting Number: 21200
Closing Date: 09/23/2026
Posting Audience: Internal and External
Occupational Category: Healthcare Support
Salary Range: $4,094.50 - $5,094.16
Pay Frequency: Monthly
Salary Group: TEXAS-A-16
Shift: Regular Night
Additional Shift: 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: Rusk State Hospital
Job Location City: RUSK
Job Location Address: 805 N DICKINSON DR
Other Locations: Rusk
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. 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 IV (PNA Team Lead) performs advanced (senior level) rehabilitative patient care services work under the clinical supervision of a licensed nurse to provide quality psychiatric nursing care in an inpatient setting. Work involves coordinating assignments and specific duties for all PNAs which include assisting the patients with activities of daily living, instructing staff on hospital and program procedures and policies, and 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. As an integral member of the recovery team or the admissions team provides verbal and supportive communication and documentation concerning individual patient behaviors, progress or lack thereof towards individualized goals of the recovery plan. Actively participates in shift reporting and recovery team meetings, or meetings with admissions staff. Works under limited supervision, with considerable 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.
As the team lead, coordinates assignments and specific duties for PNAs which include assisting the patient with activities of daily living, hygiene, and eating to promote independence and self-care. Takes an active role in the implementation of the individualized recovery plans and offers consistent, ongoing support in assisting patients reaching their goals. Uses therapeutic, person-centered communication skills in promptly and effectively engaging patients. Accompanies patient to appointments as required.
Communicates effectively with other team members to promote a positive workplace. Shares information with other PNAs so they understand their role in supporting the patient’s treatment.
Serves as a participant in the recovery team or admissions team. Provides on-going collaborative verbal, and written communication concerning patients. Instructs other PNAs on how to provide verbal and written communication concerning patient’s progress or lack thereof to their individualized goals. Develops plans for treatment and instructs other PNAs on how to take an active role with patients’ recovery processes.
Uses basic computer skills and responds to questions from other PNAs on reporting procedures to communicate patient care information clearly and concisely in a timely manner.
The PNA IV Team Lead assists the licensed nurse and provides guidance to other PNAs in monitoring patients for medication administration or treatment, including 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.
Models appropriate response 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 the CPR/Heimlich techniques and use of an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) correctly and safely according to the specification of the American Heart Association.
Instructs other PNAs on how to provide the RN with timely, clinically relevant patient information (such as possible side effects of medication, disease/injury, or behavioral escalation gained by direct observation/interaction with patients to promote safety. Actively participates in shift change.
Provides objective and relevant information to the supervising RN on an ongoing basis concerning the work performance of assigned PNAs to support a more comprehensive performance evaluation and to assist in the identification of training and/or other performance improvement opportunities.
Serves as a preceptor (orientation and on-going training) for new employees including PNA Is, IIs, and other temporarily assigned personnel to the unit.
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.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs):
- Knowledge and experience in CAPPS, CARE, Microsoft Word, and Excel
- Knowledge of patient aggression reduction interventions
- Knowledge of patient care techniques and of treatment, therapy, developmental, and patient centered recovery programs
- Knowledge of effective interpersonal and leadership skills and ability to interact with other team members utilizing effective interpersonal skills
- Skills in the use of computer and office equipment
- Ability to prepare and maintain records, files, and reports
- Ability to serve as a lead worker providing direction to others
- Ability to read, write and understand English to effectively communicate and carry out verbal and written instructions
- Ability to provide patient care, to administer first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation, to conduct TIPS, and to communicate effectively
- Ability to work with others and accept supervision
- Ability to train others
Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:
If transporting patients, will be required to have 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:
- Four years of work experience required.
- At least three (3) years direct care experience required.
- At least three (3) years Psychiatric patient experience preferred.
- At least three (3) years Supervisory experience 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, 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 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: Psychiatric Nursing Assistant IV
Job Title: Psychiatric Nursing Asst IV
Agency: Health & Human Services Comm
Department: Adm AcuteCarePsych Direct Car
Posting Number: 21200
Closing Date: 09/23/2026
Posting Audience: Internal and External
Occupational Category: Healthcare Support
Salary Range: $4,094.50 - $5,094.16
Pay Frequency: Monthly
Salary Group: TEXAS-A-16
Shift: Regular Night
Additional Shift: 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: Rusk State Hospital
Job Location City: RUSK
Job Location Address: 805 N DICKINSON DR
Other Locations: Rusk
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. 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 IV (PNA Team Lead) performs advanced (senior level) rehabilitative patient care services work under the clinical supervision of a licensed nurse to provide quality psychiatric nursing care in an inpatient setting. Work involves coordinating assignments and specific duties for all PNAs which include assisting the patients with activities of daily living, instructing staff on hospital and program procedures and policies, and 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. As an integral member of the recovery team or the admissions team provides verbal and supportive communication and documentation concerning individual patient behaviors, progress or lack thereof towards individualized goals of the recovery plan. Actively participates in shift reporting and recovery team meetings, or meetings with admissions staff. Works under limited supervision, with considerable 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.
As the team lead, coordinates assignments and specific duties for PNAs which include assisting the patient with activities of daily living, hygiene, and eating to promote independence and self-care. Takes an active role in the implementation of the individualized recovery plans and offers consistent, ongoing support in assisting patients reaching their goals. Uses therapeutic, person-centered communication skills in promptly and effectively engaging patients. Accompanies patient to appointments as required.
Communicates effectively with other team members to promote a positive workplace. Shares information with other PNAs so they understand their role in supporting the patient’s treatment.
Serves as a participant in the recovery team or admissions team. Provides on-going collaborative verbal, and written communication concerning patients. Instructs other PNAs on how to provide verbal and written communication concerning patient’s progress or lack thereof to their individualized goals. Develops plans for treatment and instructs other PNAs on how to take an active role with patients’ recovery processes.
Uses basic computer skills and responds to questions from other PNAs on reporting procedures to communicate patient care information clearly and concisely in a timely manner.
The PNA IV Team Lead assists the licensed nurse and provides guidance to other PNAs in monitoring patients for medication administration or treatment, including 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.
Models appropriate response 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 the CPR/Heimlich techniques and use of an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) correctly and safely according to the specification of the American Heart Association.
Instructs other PNAs on how to provide the RN with timely, clinically relevant patient information (such as possible side effects of medication, disease/injury, or behavioral escalation gained by direct observation/interaction with patients to promote safety. Actively participates in shift change.
Provides objective and relevant information to the supervising RN on an ongoing basis concerning the work performance of assigned PNAs to support a more comprehensive performance evaluation and to assist in the identification of training and/or other performance improvement opportunities.
Serves as a preceptor (orientation and on-going training) for new employees including PNA Is, IIs, and other temporarily assigned personnel to the unit.
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.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs):
- Knowledge and experience in CAPPS, CARE, Microsoft Word, and Excel
- Knowledge of patient aggression reduction interventions
- Knowledge of patient care techniques and of treatment, therapy, developmental, and patient centered recovery programs
- Knowledge of effective interpersonal and leadership skills and ability to interact with other team members utilizing effective interpersonal skills
- Skills in the use of computer and office equipment
- Ability to prepare and maintain records, files, and reports
- Ability to serve as a lead worker providing direction to others
- Ability to read, write and understand English to effectively communicate and carry out verbal and written instructions
- Ability to provide patient care, to administer first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation, to conduct TIPS, and to communicate effectively
- Ability to work with others and accept supervision
- Ability to train others
Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:
If transporting patients, will be required to have 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:
- Four years of work experience required.
- At least three (3) years direct care experience required.
- At least three (3) years Psychiatric patient experience preferred.
- At least three (3) years Supervisory experience 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, 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 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.
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.