Nurse, Healthcare Nursing

Job Title

Nurse I (Staff Nurse)

Austin State Hospital, 4110 Guadalupe, Austin, Texas

• Posting Number: 16165
• Closing Date: 07/25/2026
• Salary Range: $5,746.66 – $6,779.25 per month
• Pay Frequency:
  Monthly
• Shift: Day;
  Additional Shift: Days (First);
  Evenings (Second)
• Telework Eligibility:
  Not Eligible
• Travel:
  Up to 10%
• FLSA Status:
  Exempt
• Full Time/Part Time:
  Full time
• Facility
  
  Location:
  
  Austin State Hospital

Texas Health and Human Services Commission offers 100% paid employee health insurance for full‑time eligible employees, a defined benefit pension plan, generous time off benefits, and opportunities for career advancement. For more details, visit the Benefits of Working at HHS webpage.

The Nurse I (Staff Nurse) performs entry‑level to routine nursing work in a state hospital under the supervision of the Charge Nurse or Nurse Manager. Conducts comprehensive assessments of patients’ nursing care needs in an inpatient psychiatric setting, formulates initial plans of care, maintains the therapeutic milieu, and collaborates with the multidisciplinary recovery team. Works under moderate supervision with limited latitude for independent judgment.

• Attend work regularly and work designated shifts, including rotating schedules, extended shifts, and overtime as needed.
• Perform comprehensive assessment of patients’ nursing care needs, including physical, behavioral, psychiatric, and social needs.
• Observe and analyze patient behavior and status, documenting in the medical record and reporting as necessary to the psychiatrist and other team members.
• Contribute to the development of individualized recovery plans in collaboration with other recovery team members.
• Provide comprehensive individual or group health teaching and coping strategies to patients and/or families.
• Utilize one‑to‑one counseling skills to assist patients with anxiety and coping strategies.
• Initiate and implement population‑specific nursing interventions based on appropriate standards of care.
• Administer medications and treatments as ordered, maintaining MAR and controlled drug records per policy.
• Establish and monitor the therapeutic milieu, ensuring a safe and therapeutic environment.
• Provide training to other staff on psychiatric nursing principles, unit routines, and milieu management.
• Initiate and monitor the appropriate use of restraint or seclusion to ensure safety.
• Perform other duties as assigned, including participation in disaster response, continuity of operations, or COOP activation.

• Knowledge of nursing techniques and procedures.
• Understanding of medical diagnoses and procedures.
• Familiarity with accepted medical treatment programs.
• Knowledge of community health and nursing care principles, practices, and procedures.
• Skill in the care and treatment of patients.
• Competence in using a computer and applicable software.
• Ability to provide patient care, prepare and maintain records, and communicate effectively orally and in writing.

• Licensed to practice as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Texas or a party state recognizing reciprocity through the Nurse Licensure Compact.
• Or possess a temporary permit to perform duties under supervision while awaiting license issuance.
• Valid Texas driver license required if transporting patients, or a certified driving record must be provided for out‑of‑state license holders.

Graduation from an accredited nursing program or a four‑year college/university with major coursework in nursing.

• EEO Statement: HHSC is an equal opportunity employer. Employment decisions are based on qualifications and experience.
• All applicants must be at least 18 years of age (21 for Waco Center for Youth).
• Compliance with HHSC immunization policy and state hospital operating procedures related to immunizations is required.
• Applicants must pass a criminal background check, drug screen, and registry checks.

Telephone: for ADA accommodation or application assistance.