Innovation Lead

Systems Analyst VII – Innovation Lead

Agency: Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC)

Posting Number: 10562 |
Closing Date: January 22, 2026 |
Type: Internal & External |
Location: 4601 W Guadelupe St, Austin, TX

Salary: $8,488.33 – $13,151.00 per month (Texos‑B‑29)

Shift: Day |
Travel: up to 60% |
Telework: eligible (subject to supervisor discretion) |
Hours: Full‑time, No third‑party contracting

The Systems Analyst VII (Innovation Lead) drives cloud and AI innovation initiatives across the enterprise, delivering strategic solutions that align with HHSC objectives and enterprise architecture. The role combines innovation strategy, solution design, project leadership, and cross‑functional collaboration to prototype, pilot, and implement next‑generation technologies.

• Define and manage innovation roadmaps and proof‑of‑concept portfolios, ensuring smooth transitions to full production.
• Engage stakeholders through workshops, research, and requirement gathering to identify AI or cloud‑enabled solutions.
• Oversee the full innovation delivery lifecycle—planning, prioritization, implementation, testing, and hand‑off—monitoring milestones and risk.
• Validate solutions, including AI model evaluation, performance testing, and coordination with Dev Ops, data, and cloud engineering.
• Assess technology trends and recommend strategic investments; produce reporting and actionable recommendations.
• Drive adoption through training, communication, and documentation; support change management initiatives.
• Collaborate with enterprise teams on CTO‑level initiatives and special projects.

• Experience leading cloud, AI, or emerging‑technology initiatives from concept to production.
• Strong knowledge of Azure, AWS, GCP, SaaS, and system integration.
• Proficiency in rapid prototyping, scaling innovations, and agile delivery frameworks.
• Experience with JIRA, Azure Dev Ops, Service Now, or similar tools.
• Analytical skills for technology trend evaluation, ROI analysis, and business case development.
• Excellent communication, facilitation, and stakeholder management.
• Vendor management and cross‑functional team leadership.
• Mentoring junior analysts and promoting best practices.
• Public‑sector modernization awareness and data‑driven decision making.
• Certifications preferred: PMP, CSPO, SAFe Agilist, AWS or Azure AI certifications.

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• 8+ years of experience in technology innovation, systems analysis, or product delivery.

• Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.
• Hybrid position: at least 3 days per week in the Austin office.
• Travel up to 60% and shift may require occasional evening/weekend work.
• Travel and telework subject to agency policies.

HHSC encourages qualified military, reservist, and veteran applicants.

All applicants will receive reasonable accommodations under the ADA. Contact the HHSC Employee Service Center at 1‑888‑894‑4747 for assistance.

Successful candidates will undergo background checks and pass I‑9, E‑Verify, and other required verifications.