Senior Pharmaceutical Data Specialist

About the role

Under general direction of the Pharmaceutical Policy Manager, the Senior Pharmaceutical Data Specialist applies advanced research methodologies, expert data analysis, and independent judgment to support the development, implementation, and evaluation of P3B and CalRx programmatic operations and strategies, including those to ensure equitable access. The incumbent functions as a specialist for research and data projects, plans, designs, and carries out research projects; identifies data needs; gathers and analyzes structured and unstructured data; and develops findings and recommendations to support CalRx program decisions. The incumbent applies advanced research methods to evaluate program outcomes, market dynamics, access barriers, and policy impacts. The incumbent develops high-impact policy and operational recommendations that shape CalRx's strategy, guide program implementation, inform vendor and partnership decisions and access to affordable and critical prescription drugs throughout the state.

Responsibilities

• Plan, design, and carry out research projects
• Identify data needs and gather structured and unstructured data
• Analyze data to support CalRx program decisions
• Evaluate program outcomes, market dynamics, access barriers, and policy impacts using advanced research methods
• Develop high-impact policy and operational recommendations to shape CalRx strategy
• Guide program implementation and inform vendor and partnership decisions

Qualifications

Individuals who are currently in the classification, eligible for lateral transfer, eligible for reinstatement, have list or LEAP eligibility, are in the process of obtaining list eligibility, or have SROA and/or Surplus eligibility (please attach your letter, if available). SROA and Surplus candidates are given priority; therefore, individuals with other eligibility may be considered in the event no SROA or Surplus candidates apply.

Pay

• Research Data Specialist II: $7,640.00 - $9,561.00 A
• Research Data Specialist I: $6,955.00 - $8,706.00 A
• New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable

Schedule

• Position # of Positions: 1
• Work Location: Sacramento County
• Telework: Hybrid
• Job Type: Permanent, Full Time

Application requirements

• Final Filing Date: 9/14/2026
• Complete Application Packages must be submitted by the Final Filing Date
• Required documents: Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (or electronic version through CalCareer account), Resume, and Statement of Qualifications
• Statement of Qualifications must have applicant's Name and Job Control number noted on top right corner, be typed and limited to two pages, in Arial font not smaller than size 11
• SOQ must address: (1) how your experience, education, and training align with the requirements of this position; (2) why you believe prescription drug affordability and access are important; (3) describe an instance when you had to investigate a problem using data, including your process and takeaways
• Applications may be submitted electronically through CalCareer Account or by mail/drop-off to the Department of Health Care Access and Information Human Resources Office