Human Rights Officer

Human Rights Officer I

Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) seeks a Human Rights Officer I to support the legal and basic human rights of patients at Vernon State Hospital. The role ensures compliance with state and federal regulations, investigates and resolves rights‑related complaints, and provides training and policy development for the facility.

• Maintain and improve the facility’s human rights program to promote and protect patients’ legal and basic human rights.
• Serve as the facility liaison with Disability Rights Texas and coordinate the Patient Advocacy Program.
• Investigate and resolve rights‑related complaints and issues, conducting data analysis of trends and restrictions.
• Collaborate with the Interdisciplinary Team to review and recommend changes to policies, procedures, and patient care practices.
• Coordinate and chair Patient Advocacy Committee (PAC) meetings, ensuring due process for rights restrictions.
• Provide training and education to staff, PAC members, and patients on rights, self‑advocacy, and opportunities for civic engagement.
• Participate in hospital investigations, incident management teams, and disaster response or continuity of operations activities as required.
• Prepare concise reports and present findings to the Superintendent and other facility leadership.

• Graduation from an accredited four‑year college or university with major coursework in psychology, sociology, special education, rehabilitation counseling, or a related human services field AND at least six (6) months of experience in human rights, patient advocacy, mental health services, or case management.
• OR an associate degree with a minimum of twenty‑four (24) months of relevant experience.
• OR no degree with a minimum of thirty‑six (36) months of relevant experience.
• All candidates must have at least six (6) months of experience working with individuals who have mental health or intellectual and developmental disabilities.
• Background and pre‑employment checks, including fingerprint, drug screen, and registry checks, are required.

• Knowledge of local, state, and federal laws and regulations related to human rights and due process.
• Understanding of Medicare/Medicaid and Joint Commission regulations applicable to the program area.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to develop and evaluate administrative policies.
• Excellent written and oral communication, meeting facilitation, and training delivery skills.
• Proficient computer skills, including Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Excellent organizational and time‑management abilities.

Applicants must be at least 18 years old. Males aged 18–25 must register with Selective Service. The position may require overtime, flexible hours, and compliance with HHSC immunization and safety policies.