What are the responsibilities and job description for the Vulnerable Populations Specialist position at Texas Department of State Health Services?
Date: Jan 26, 2026
Location:
HOUSTON, TX
DSHS is committed to hiring skilled and dedicated individuals who share a passion for public health to pursue our vision of A Healthy Texas. If you are looking to make an impact and tackle new challenges, we encourage you to consider a career with us.
Employee Benefits
DSHS offers insurance coverage and other benefits available through the State of Texas Group Benefits Plan administered by the Employee Retirement System of Texas (ERS). To learn more about all the benefits available to you as a DSHS employee and other DSHS opportunities for early career pathways, visit the DSHS Careers Page.
Review our Top 10 Tips for Success when Applying to State of Texas Jobs.
Functional Title: Vulnerable Populations Specialist
Job Title: Social Worker II
Agency: Dept of State Health Services
Department: Region 6/5
Posting Number: 12934
Closing Date: 02/09/2026
Posting Audience: Internal and External
Occupational Category: Healthcare Support
Salary Group: TEXAS-B-19
Salary Range: $4,020.33 - $6,335.66
Pay Frequency: Monthly
Shift: Day
Additional Shift: Days (First)
Telework: Eligible for Telework
Travel: Up to 25%
Regular/Temporary: Regular
Full Time/Part Time: Full time
FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt
Facility Location:
Job Location City: HOUSTON
Job Location Address: 5425 POLK ST
Other Locations:
MOS Codes: 0149,5832,230X,42SX,4C0X1,68X,73A,HM
General Description
Under the direction of the Preparedness and Response Manager, the Vulnerable Populations Specialist (VPS) performs highly advanced social service public health emergency preparedness work. Using the whole community approach, the VPS is responsible for planning for the access and functional needs of vulnerable populations in the event of a public health emergency, as well as developing strong vulnerable population participation in disaster planning and response activities. The VPS performs this work using the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Public Health Preparedness Capabilities: National Standards for State and Local Planning framework. The VPS will define, locate, and reach vulnerable populations. Conducts analyses, assesses needs, identifies gaps, and formulates strategies. In coordination with regional planners, provides input into existing plans and provides insight to develop new plans to serve vulnerable populations. Develops and facilities opportunities for inclusive planning with vulnerable populations. In coordination with regional training and exercise specialists, provides input on the inclusion of vulnerable populations in exercises and drills. Builds relationships with self-advocates and vulnerable population partners who can act as subject matter experts and provide feedback on regional plans, as well as participate in exercises. Provides presentations and trainings to external partners and DSHS staff. Actively participates in regional collaborative workgroups, such as Public Health Emergency Preparedness Coalition (PHEP-C), Mass Care Coalition, Houston UASI Disaster Access and Functional Needs Committee, and Texas Gulf Coast Regional Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters (TGCRVOAD). Actively leads workgroups, such as the DSHS-TEPHI Vulnerable Populations Working Group. Documents all community work in agency software, such as Qualtrics. Completes required preparedness documentation to support federal and state grant deliverables. Coordinates with preparedness staff and external partners, such as county emergency management coordinators, local health department preparedness programs, and organizations serving vulnerable populations. Works in partnership with the Specialized Health and Social Services (SHSS) VPS on projects to mitigate the increased threats and risks which vulnerable populations face during disasters, with an emphasis on public health and emergency management policy, planning and inclusiveness. When staff are activated to respond to public health emergencies, the VPS is required to be available to deploy in a range of Incident Command System roles and provides subject matter expertise on public health, mass care, and sheltering topics. Primary focus on seven counties in which DSHS provides dirrect public health services (Austin, Colorado, Liberty, Waller, Walker, Wharton, Matagorda).
Essential Functions
45% Under the direction of the Preparedness and Response Manager, performs highly advanced social service public health emergency preparedness work. Primary focus on seven counties in which DSHS serves as local public health (Austin, Colorado, Liberty, Waller, Walker, Wharton, Matagorda). Using the whole community approach, the VPS is responsible for planning for the access and functional needs of vulnerable populations in the event of a public health emergency, as well as developing strong vulnerable population participation in disaster planning and response activities. The VPS performs this work using the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Public Health Preparedness Capabilities: National Standards for State and Local Planning framework. The VPS will define, locate and reach vulnerable populations. Conducts analyses, assesses needs, identifies gaps, and formulates strategies. In coordination with regional planners, provides input to existing plans and provides insight to develop new plans to serve vulnerable populations. In coordination with regional training and exercise specialists, provides input on the inclusion of vulnerable populations in exercises and drills. Builds relationships with self-advocates and vulnerable population partners who can act as subject matter experts and provide feedback on regional plans, as well as participate in exercises.
25% Develops and facilities opportunities for inclusive planning with vulnerable populations. Actively participates and/or leads regional workgroups focusing on emergency preparedness issues concerning vulnerable populations, such as Mass Care Coalition, Disaster Access and Functional Needs Committee, Texas Gulf Coast Regional Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters (TGCRVOAD), and DSHS-TEPHI Vulnerable Populations Working Group. Actively participates on regional collaborative work groups such as Public Health Emergency Preparedness Coalition (PHEP-C). Provides presentations and training to external partners and DSHS staff.
10% Documents all community work in agency software, such as Qualtrics. Completes required preparedness documentation to support federal and state grant deliverables. Meets regularly with and works closely with the SHSS VPS.
10% When staff are activated to respond to public health emergencies, the VPS is required to be available to deploy in a range of Incident Command System roles and provide subject matter expertise on public health, mass care and sheltering topics. Serves as the subject matter expert on Functional Needs Support Services.
10% Other duties as assigned. Participates in DSHS initiatives, to include regional work groups and projects. All DSHS employees are required to actively participate and/or serve 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
Knowledge of the CDC Public Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Capabilities
Knowledge of community and government service delivery systems and case management delivery systems
Knowledge of state and federal laws related to social services
Knowledge of Medicaid policies and benefits for women and children in Texas
Knowledge of Functional Needs Support Services (FNSS) as defined by Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) and FEMA
Knowledge of public health emergency preparedness at all levels of government
Knowledge of the National Incident Management System, Incident Command Structure, Homeland Security Exercise and Evaluation Program
Knowledge of interviewing techniques
Knowledge of a vulnerable populations’ needs during an emergency response
Knowledge of maternal, infant and children’s health, to include mental health
Knowledge of medical terminology
Knowledge of medical countermeasures
Knowledge of community resources
Knowledge of community building and development
Knowledge of whole community approach
Knowledge of community involvement and macro social work practice models
Knowledge of collective stress situations
Knowledge of best practices in community engagement
Skill in interviewing, conducting community assessments, and conducting gap analyses.
Skill in developing and facilitating community coalitions and focus groups
Skill in developing and presenting information and training to diverse audiences
Skill in using Microsoft Office Software and specialized software programs
Skill in implementing best practices in community social work practice
Skill in data collection, assessment and analysis
Skill in cultural competency
Ability to communicate effectively in writing and verbally
Ability to deploy during emergencies
Ability to provide technical assistance in social services and public health
Ability to establish effective partnerships in communities
Ability to build and sustain resilient community capacity related to preparedness
Ability to work as part of a multidisciplinary team
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively among all stakeholders
Ability to locate and reach at risk populations
Registrations, Licensure Requirements Or Certifications
Texas C Class Drivers License or ability to aquire one within the first month of employment
Initial Screening Criteria
N/A
Active Duty, Military, Reservists, Guardsmen, And Veterans
Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified for this position. For more information see the Texas State Auditor’s Military Crosswalk at https://hr.sao.texas.gov/CompensationSystem/JobDescriptions/.
ADA Accommodations
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), DSHS will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring process for individuals with a qualifying disability. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the interview process, please notify the person who contacts you to schedule the interview. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747 or via email at HHSServiceCenter.Applications@ngahrhosting.com.
Salary Information, Pre-employment Checks, And Work Eligibility
Location:
HOUSTON, TX
DSHS is committed to hiring skilled and dedicated individuals who share a passion for public health to pursue our vision of A Healthy Texas. If you are looking to make an impact and tackle new challenges, we encourage you to consider a career with us.
Employee Benefits
DSHS offers insurance coverage and other benefits available through the State of Texas Group Benefits Plan administered by the Employee Retirement System of Texas (ERS). To learn more about all the benefits available to you as a DSHS employee and other DSHS opportunities for early career pathways, visit the DSHS Careers Page.
Review our Top 10 Tips for Success when Applying to State of Texas Jobs.
Functional Title: Vulnerable Populations Specialist
Job Title: Social Worker II
Agency: Dept of State Health Services
Department: Region 6/5
Posting Number: 12934
Closing Date: 02/09/2026
Posting Audience: Internal and External
Occupational Category: Healthcare Support
Salary Group: TEXAS-B-19
Salary Range: $4,020.33 - $6,335.66
Pay Frequency: Monthly
Shift: Day
Additional Shift: Days (First)
Telework: Eligible for Telework
Travel: Up to 25%
Regular/Temporary: Regular
Full Time/Part Time: Full time
FLSA Exempt/Non-Exempt: Nonexempt
Facility Location:
Job Location City: HOUSTON
Job Location Address: 5425 POLK ST
Other Locations:
MOS Codes: 0149,5832,230X,42SX,4C0X1,68X,73A,HM
General Description
Under the direction of the Preparedness and Response Manager, the Vulnerable Populations Specialist (VPS) performs highly advanced social service public health emergency preparedness work. Using the whole community approach, the VPS is responsible for planning for the access and functional needs of vulnerable populations in the event of a public health emergency, as well as developing strong vulnerable population participation in disaster planning and response activities. The VPS performs this work using the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Public Health Preparedness Capabilities: National Standards for State and Local Planning framework. The VPS will define, locate, and reach vulnerable populations. Conducts analyses, assesses needs, identifies gaps, and formulates strategies. In coordination with regional planners, provides input into existing plans and provides insight to develop new plans to serve vulnerable populations. Develops and facilities opportunities for inclusive planning with vulnerable populations. In coordination with regional training and exercise specialists, provides input on the inclusion of vulnerable populations in exercises and drills. Builds relationships with self-advocates and vulnerable population partners who can act as subject matter experts and provide feedback on regional plans, as well as participate in exercises. Provides presentations and trainings to external partners and DSHS staff. Actively participates in regional collaborative workgroups, such as Public Health Emergency Preparedness Coalition (PHEP-C), Mass Care Coalition, Houston UASI Disaster Access and Functional Needs Committee, and Texas Gulf Coast Regional Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters (TGCRVOAD). Actively leads workgroups, such as the DSHS-TEPHI Vulnerable Populations Working Group. Documents all community work in agency software, such as Qualtrics. Completes required preparedness documentation to support federal and state grant deliverables. Coordinates with preparedness staff and external partners, such as county emergency management coordinators, local health department preparedness programs, and organizations serving vulnerable populations. Works in partnership with the Specialized Health and Social Services (SHSS) VPS on projects to mitigate the increased threats and risks which vulnerable populations face during disasters, with an emphasis on public health and emergency management policy, planning and inclusiveness. When staff are activated to respond to public health emergencies, the VPS is required to be available to deploy in a range of Incident Command System roles and provides subject matter expertise on public health, mass care, and sheltering topics. Primary focus on seven counties in which DSHS provides dirrect public health services (Austin, Colorado, Liberty, Waller, Walker, Wharton, Matagorda).
Essential Functions
45% Under the direction of the Preparedness and Response Manager, performs highly advanced social service public health emergency preparedness work. Primary focus on seven counties in which DSHS serves as local public health (Austin, Colorado, Liberty, Waller, Walker, Wharton, Matagorda). Using the whole community approach, the VPS is responsible for planning for the access and functional needs of vulnerable populations in the event of a public health emergency, as well as developing strong vulnerable population participation in disaster planning and response activities. The VPS performs this work using the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Public Health Preparedness Capabilities: National Standards for State and Local Planning framework. The VPS will define, locate and reach vulnerable populations. Conducts analyses, assesses needs, identifies gaps, and formulates strategies. In coordination with regional planners, provides input to existing plans and provides insight to develop new plans to serve vulnerable populations. In coordination with regional training and exercise specialists, provides input on the inclusion of vulnerable populations in exercises and drills. Builds relationships with self-advocates and vulnerable population partners who can act as subject matter experts and provide feedback on regional plans, as well as participate in exercises.
25% Develops and facilities opportunities for inclusive planning with vulnerable populations. Actively participates and/or leads regional workgroups focusing on emergency preparedness issues concerning vulnerable populations, such as Mass Care Coalition, Disaster Access and Functional Needs Committee, Texas Gulf Coast Regional Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters (TGCRVOAD), and DSHS-TEPHI Vulnerable Populations Working Group. Actively participates on regional collaborative work groups such as Public Health Emergency Preparedness Coalition (PHEP-C). Provides presentations and training to external partners and DSHS staff.
10% Documents all community work in agency software, such as Qualtrics. Completes required preparedness documentation to support federal and state grant deliverables. Meets regularly with and works closely with the SHSS VPS.
10% When staff are activated to respond to public health emergencies, the VPS is required to be available to deploy in a range of Incident Command System roles and provide subject matter expertise on public health, mass care and sheltering topics. Serves as the subject matter expert on Functional Needs Support Services.
10% Other duties as assigned. Participates in DSHS initiatives, to include regional work groups and projects. All DSHS employees are required to actively participate and/or serve 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
Knowledge of the CDC Public Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Capabilities
Knowledge of community and government service delivery systems and case management delivery systems
Knowledge of state and federal laws related to social services
Knowledge of Medicaid policies and benefits for women and children in Texas
Knowledge of Functional Needs Support Services (FNSS) as defined by Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) and FEMA
Knowledge of public health emergency preparedness at all levels of government
Knowledge of the National Incident Management System, Incident Command Structure, Homeland Security Exercise and Evaluation Program
Knowledge of interviewing techniques
Knowledge of a vulnerable populations’ needs during an emergency response
Knowledge of maternal, infant and children’s health, to include mental health
Knowledge of medical terminology
Knowledge of medical countermeasures
Knowledge of community resources
Knowledge of community building and development
Knowledge of whole community approach
Knowledge of community involvement and macro social work practice models
Knowledge of collective stress situations
Knowledge of best practices in community engagement
Skill in interviewing, conducting community assessments, and conducting gap analyses.
Skill in developing and facilitating community coalitions and focus groups
Skill in developing and presenting information and training to diverse audiences
Skill in using Microsoft Office Software and specialized software programs
Skill in implementing best practices in community social work practice
Skill in data collection, assessment and analysis
Skill in cultural competency
Ability to communicate effectively in writing and verbally
Ability to deploy during emergencies
Ability to provide technical assistance in social services and public health
Ability to establish effective partnerships in communities
Ability to build and sustain resilient community capacity related to preparedness
Ability to work as part of a multidisciplinary team
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively among all stakeholders
Ability to locate and reach at risk populations
Registrations, Licensure Requirements Or Certifications
Texas C Class Drivers License or ability to aquire one within the first month of employment
Initial Screening Criteria
- Graduate of an accredited four-year college or university.
- Major coursework in behavioral sciences, social sciences, humanities, or a related field preferred.
- Experience in social services work
- Public health and/or emergency management experience preferred.
- Experience and education may be substituted for one another on a one-for-one year basis
N/A
Active Duty, Military, Reservists, Guardsmen, And Veterans
Military occupation(s) that relate to the initial selection criteria and registration or licensure requirements for this position may include, but not limited to those listed in this posting. All active-duty military, reservists, guardsmen, and veterans are encouraged to apply if qualified for this position. For more information see the Texas State Auditor’s Military Crosswalk at https://hr.sao.texas.gov/CompensationSystem/JobDescriptions/.
ADA Accommodations
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), DSHS will provide reasonable accommodation during the hiring process for individuals with a qualifying disability. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the interview process, please notify the person who contacts you to schedule the interview. If you need assistance completing the on-line application, contact the HHS Employee Service Center at 1-888-894-4747 or via email at HHSServiceCenter.Applications@ngahrhosting.com.
Salary Information, Pre-employment Checks, And Work Eligibility
- The salary offered will follow DSHS starting salary guidelines. Any employment offer is contingent upon available budgeted funds.
- Depending on the program area and position requirements, applicants selected for hire may be required to pass background and other due diligence checks.
- DSHS uses E-Verify. You must bring your I-9 documentation with you on your first day of work. Download the I-9 form
Salary : $4,020 - $6,336