Unregulated Operations Investigator IV

Date:
Apr 15, 2026

Location:

CONROE, TX

This position is a full‑time, day‑shift Investigator IV within the Texas Health and Human Services Commission, responsible for investigating unregulated child‑care operations to protect children, educate families, and enforce compliance. The role requires extensive field travel (up to 75%) and is eligible for telework.

• Initiate and conduct complex investigations of unregulated child‑care facilities, including walk‑throughs, interviews, surveillance, and documentation.
• Apply risk‑based assessments during intake and determine priority and level of risk.
• Evaluate and respond to exemption requests in accordance with HR Code, Chapter 42, and the Texas Administrative Code.
• Lead community engagement, outreach, and educational presentations to families and stakeholders.
• Recommend and assist with enforcement actions for high‑risk or non‑compliant operations, including preparation of legal documents and testifying in court.
• Attend internal and external meetings, build collaborative relationships, and maintain continuous professional development.
• Prepare written correspondence and maintain documentation to support investigations.
• Travel up to 75% and occasionally work onsite after extensive field travel.

• Knowledge of Texas laws and regulations governing child‑care.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with diverse groups.
• Skill in de‑escalating situations with tact and diplomacy.
• Critical thinking and risk assessment capabilities.
• Ability to manage priorities and work independently with limited supervision.
• Proficiency in using basic office equipment, camera/AV gear, and mobile technology.
• Willingness and ability to travel extensively.

• Graduation from an accredited four‑year college or university with a degree in Human Development, Early Childhood Development, Social Services, Education, Criminal Justice, Psychology, Public Health, Family Studies, or a closely related field.
• Experience evaluating and analyzing risk to children is preferred.
• Experience participating in, leading, or coordinating community engagement activities is preferred.
• Valid Texas driver’s license and reliable transportation.

• Valid driver’s license.
• Passage of background check, including a criminal history check and review of the Texas Child Abuse and Neglect Registry.

This is a full‑time telework position with frequent field travel and occasional office work. Employees use mobile technology such as tablets and cell phones while on the field.

Employees are eligible for 100 % paid employee health insurance, a defined‑benefit pension plan, generous time‑off benefits, and opportunities for career advancement. Detailed benefits information is available on the Benefits of Working at HHS webpage.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), HHSC provides reasonable accommodations during the hiring and selection process for qualified individuals with a disability.