Psychiatric Nurse Jobs at Texas Health and Human Services Commission with Visa Sponsorship
Psychiatric Nurse jobs at Texas Health and Human Services Commission serve Texas's public behavioral health system, including state hospitals and community programs. The agency has a track record of sponsoring H-1B visas for qualified psychiatric nursing candidates, making it a viable target if you need employer sponsorship.
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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 Psychiatric Nurse Jobs at Texas Health and Human Services Commission
Verify Your Texas RN License Early
Texas requires an active RN license before HHSC can hire you. Start the Texas Board of Nursing endorsement process well before applying, since delays in license transfer can push back your start date and complicate H-1B filing timelines.
Target State Hospital Postings Directly
HHSC Psychiatric Nurse openings are concentrated at state-operated facilities like Austin State Hospital and Rusk State Hospital. Search the HHSC careers portal filtering by psychiatric or behavioral health job categories to find positions where sponsorship has historically been offered.
Understand HHSC's Civil Service Hiring Process
As a state agency, HHSC follows a structured civil service hiring process with formal scoring and approval stages. Your offer letter and start date can take longer than private-sector roles, which affects when your employer can file the H-1B petition with USCIS.
Confirm Sponsorship Willingness Before Interviews
Not every HHSC hiring manager is familiar with H-1B procedures at the agency level. Ask HR directly whether the specific facility and budget unit has approved sponsorship for that posting before investing time in the interview process.
Use Migrate Mate to Identify Sponsoring Openings
Filtering for HHSC Psychiatric Nurse roles that have a documented H-1B sponsorship history saves significant time. Browse open positions on Migrate Mate to surface listings where visa sponsorship is confirmed rather than assumed.
Prepare for Cap-Subject H-1B Lottery Timing
HHSC is not a university or nonprofit, so its H-1B petitions are cap-subject. Registration opens in March and USCIS conducts the lottery shortly after. Align your application and offer acceptance timeline so your employer can file in April if selected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Texas Health and Human Services Commission sponsor H-1B visas for Psychiatric Nurses?
Yes, Texas Health and Human Services Commission does sponsor H-1B visas for Psychiatric Nurses. Sponsorship is tied to specific facility needs and budget approval, so not every open position will include it. Confirm with the HR contact listed on the posting before applying to avoid surprises late in the process.
How do I apply for Psychiatric Nurse jobs at Texas Health and Human Services Commission?
Applications go through the HHSC careers portal at jobs.hhs.texas.gov. You'll create a profile, submit your application materials, and complete any required state assessments. Roles at state hospitals often require documenting clinical psychiatric experience directly in the application, so detail your inpatient or forensic nursing background specifically rather than listing general RN experience.
Which visa types are commonly used for Psychiatric Nurse roles at Texas Health and Human Services Commission?
The H-1B is the primary visa HHSC uses for Psychiatric Nurses, as the role qualifies as a specialty occupation requiring a nursing degree. If you hold a Green Card or are on OPT or STEM OPT from a U.S. nursing program, those pathways also allow you to start work while longer-term sponsorship is arranged separately.
What qualifications and experience does HHSC expect for Psychiatric Nurse roles?
HHSC typically requires an active Texas RN license, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and demonstrated experience in psychiatric or behavioral health settings. State hospital roles often involve working with forensic or involuntary commitment populations, so prior inpatient psychiatric experience, crisis intervention training, and familiarity with Texas mental health code procedures strengthen your application significantly.
How do I find Psychiatric Nurse openings at HHSC that include visa sponsorship, and what does the hiring timeline look like?
You can browse verified H-1B-sponsoring Psychiatric Nurse roles at HHSC on Migrate Mate, which filters for positions with documented sponsorship history. Expect the full hiring timeline at a state agency to run longer than private employers, often three to six months from application to start date, which is a factor when coordinating USCIS petition filing windows.