Research Advisory Services Scientist (Hybrid)

About the role

The Research Scientist Staff (RSS) within the Research Advisory Services Team Unit (RASTU) at the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) will plan, organize, and direct epidemiology/biostatistics scientific research studies of highly developed scientific scope and complexity. This includes assessing the impact of Medi-Cal policies and programs on eligibility, access, quality, utilization, health outcomes, and expenditures in the context of disparities and population health.

Responsibilities

• Apply epidemiology, biostatistics, survey techniques, theoretical models, and research methods to plan, organize, and direct scientific research studies.
• Collaborate with management and research staff to develop and implement evidence-based programs and best practices aimed at reducing health disparities and improving health, quality of care, and cost outcomes.
• Validate data and identify, resolve, and monitor data quality issues in healthcare-related data sets, including but not limited to license/certification information, eligibility, claims, encounter, capitation, utilization, pharmacy, vital statistics, etc.

Requirements

This position requires a strong background in epidemiology, biostatistics, and data management. Specific requirements include:

• A Master's degree in Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Public Health, or a related field.
• At least 5 years of relevant experience in conducting research studies involving large datasets.
• Experience with SAS, SQL, Excel, and other analytics tools for healthcare data management and research.
• Knowledge of health care provider and beneficiary data, including eligibility, claims, encounter, capitation, utilization, pharmacy, vital statistics, etc.
• Ability to design and implement health services research and data strategies.

Qualifications

To qualify for this position, you must meet the following minimum qualifications:

• A Master's degree in Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Public Health, or a related field.
• At least 5 years of relevant experience in conducting research studies involving large datasets.
• Experience with SAS, SQL, Excel, and other analytics tools for healthcare data management and research.
• Knowledge of health care provider and beneficiary data, including eligibility, claims, encounter, capitation, utilization, pharmacy, vital statistics, etc.
• Ability to design and implement health services research and data strategies.

Skills

Preferred skills include:

• Experience with health care provider and beneficiary data, including license/certification information, eligibility, claims, encounter, capitation, utilization, pharmacy, vital statistics, etc.
• Ability to validate data and identify, resolve, and monitor data quality issues.
• Experience with health services research and data strategies.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.

Benefits

The California Department of Health Care Services offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, paid holidays and vacation, a defined retirement program, and more. For more information, please refer to the DHCS 2023-2027 Strategic Plan and CalHR's California State Civil Service Employee Benefits Summary.

Pay

The starting salary for this position is $8,327.00 - $10,779.00 per month, depending on qualifications and experience. Final salary will be determined based on the successful candidate's qualifications and experience.

Schedule

This position is a hybrid role, combining both remote and in-office work. The exact schedule will be discussed during the interview process.