IT Project Strategy & Planning Intern (Policy Focused)

This position is open to U.S. Citizens and permanent residents.

Are you looking for a paid summer internship? Thinking about a career in government?

Texas Health and Human Services (HHSC) Information Technology Customer Experience and Delivery organization is seeking an IT Project Planning Intern to support work related to Medicaid information technology initiatives, federal funding requests, and agency policy analysis. This internship provides hands-on exposure to the development of Federal Advance Planning Documents (APDs).  Tasks include providing assistance researching, drafting, and reviewing high-quality written materials, collaborating with program and IT stakeholders, and using analytical and AI-enabled tools to develop operational solutions. The position is temporary in nature and is on-site in Austin, Texas, for approximately ~30 hours per week during regular business hours. Must be interested in Medicaid policy, government programs, or public-sector operations.

Essential Job Functions (EJFs):

•       Review, triage, and track incoming Advance Planning Document (APD) requests to ensure completeness, policy alignment, and readiness for further development or submission.

•       Assist in drafting and revising APD documents, including planning, implementation, and update submissions, in alignment with federal Medicaid requirements and state priorities.

•       Research and analyze information technology project costs, funding models, and supporting documentation to inform federal funding requests and policy decisions.

•       Conduct policy and background research related to Medicaid programs, state statutes, and applicable federal guidelines, and summarize findings for program and leadership use.

•       Produce clear, well-organized, and high-quality written materials, including policy summaries, issue briefs, decision-making documents, and supporting narratives to IT PMO leadership.

•       Interact with AI-enabled tools to support research, drafting, analysis, and problem-solving related to agency policy, funding, and agency operations.

•       Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including program, policy, and IT staff, to gather information, clarify requirements, and incorporate feedback into written deliverables.

•       Gain exposure to HHSC agency processes, governance structures, and decision-making workflows related to Medicaid and federally funded initiatives.

•       Participate in meetings to share progress, insights, and recommendations, and to build an understanding of how policy, technology, and operations intersect within a large public-sector organization.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs):

Knowledge of:

•       Medicaid policy concepts, public-sector programs, or government operations.

•       Federal funding mechanisms and documentation requirements, such as Advance Planning Documents (APDs), or the ability to quickly learn these areas.

Skill in:

•       Researching and synthesizing complex information from statutes, regulations, policy guidance, and technical materials.

•       Producing clear, concise, and well-structured written documents for both technical and non-technical audiences.

•       Using analytical, productivity, and AI-enabled tools to support research, writing, and problem-solving.

•       Strong writing and analytical skills, with demonstrated ability to produce polished, professional documents.

Ability to:

•       Analyze policy and operational issues, identify key considerations, and communicate findings effectively.

•       Apply attention to detail while managing multiple assignments and deadlines.

•       Collaborate with stakeholders across programmatic, policy, and technical domains.

•       Learn and apply new concepts related to Medicaid, federal requirements, and agency processes.

Registrations, Licensure Requirements or Certifications:

N/A

Initial Screening Criteria:

•       Currently pursuing or recently completed a degree in Public Policy, Public Administration, Health Policy, Business, Law, Information Systems, or a related field.

•       Experience with research, policy analysis, or technical writing is preferred.

•       Familiarity with Microsoft productivity tools and comfort engaging with AI-enabled tools to support work is preferred.

Additional Information:

This is a temporary position that focuses on public affairs and policy.

Any employment offer is contingent upon available budgeted funds. The offered salary will be determined in accordance with budgetary limits and the requirements of HHSC Human Resources Manual.

Selected candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.

Selected candidate must be willing to commute to the office on the required days.