Principal Research Associate-CMS Data Analysis

At - Home

29134BR

Job Description

Westat is a leader in research, data collection and analysis, technical assistance, evaluation, and communications. Our evidence-based findings help clients in government and the private sector accelerate advancements in health, education, transportation, and social and economic policy. Our dedication to improving lives through research and our approach to projects grounded in investigative curiosity, statistical and data rigor, adaptive methods, and advanced technology are why clients find exceptional value in our work.

Job Summary:
Westat has an immediate opening for a Principal Research Associate to lead and contribute to the implementation and monitoring of innovative health care programs funded by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). Activities include applying existing knowledge of data and CMS systems related to innovative payment model implementation; developing analytic code and processes using CMS data infrastructure; developing and managing analytic processes to regularly and reliably produce implementation results; mentor analytic staff; conduct quality assurance; conduct ad hoc analyses to determine optimal implementation approaches and answer client questions; and others. The successful candidate would join a multidisciplinary team working on a variety of complex projects.

Job Responsibilities:
* Develop analytic code to implement analytic processes necessary for innovative payment model implementation.
* Conduct quality assurance of analytic code using CMS data systems.
* Develop and implement internal processes to ensure repeatable and reliable implementation results.
* Advise and mentor other technical staff developing implementation-related code and processes.
* Serve as lead programmer for innovative payment model implementation projects.
* Conduct ad hoc analyses to help project leads develop recommendations for the client and to decide on preferred implementation processes.

Basic Qualifications:
* At least 15 years of experience in database design, data analysis with large-scale data warehouses, and quality assurance.
* Extensive experience with CMS data warehouses, including the Integrated Data Repository (IDR).
* Proven expertise in leveraging CMS data warehouses to support the implementation of innovative payment models.
* Experience developing data documentation for CMS Innovation Center implementation projects
* Proficiency with SQL, Linux, Python, Databricks, Snowflake and similar software and systems.

Preferred Qualifications:
* Non-CMS federal government work or contracting experience.
* Excellent oral communication skills.
* Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills.

Westat offers a well-rounded and comprehensive benefits program focused on wellness and work/life balance. Subject to plan requirements, employees may participate in:

• Employee Stock Ownership Plan
• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Paid Parental Leave
• Vacation Leave
• Sick Leave
• Holiday Leave
• Professional Development
• Health Advocate
• Employee Assistance Program
• Travel Accident Insurance
• Medical Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Short Term Disability Insurance
• Long Term Disability Insurance
• Life and AD&D Insurance
• Critical Illness Insurance
• Supplemental Life Insurance
• Flexible Spending Account
• Health Savings Account

Any offer of employment may be contingent upon receipt of acceptable results from a post-offer background screening, if required for the specific position, which may include, for example, identity verification, employment history, motor vehicle driving record history, and criminal or sexual offender records history. Any background screening results will be evaluated through an individualized assessment based on the individual's specific record and the duties and requirements of the position.

This opportunity will be posted for a minimum of 5 days and applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis.

Westat is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, citizenship status, genetic information, or any other protected status under applicable law. It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Career Area

Research

Pay Range

The anticipated salary range for this position is $150,000 - $192,000 and will commensurate with experience.