Principal Research Associate: Implementation & Helpdesk Lead

Westat, Inc.; Maryland; Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee Stock Ownership Plan

401(k) Retirement Plan

Paid Parental Leave

Vacation Leave (20 days per year)

Sick Leave (9 days per year)

Holiday Leave (7 government holidays +

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Job summary

Westat is seeking a Principal Research Associate to lead implementation and customer support efforts for CMS/CMMI programs. The role is hybrid, with a minimum of two days per week in Bethesda, MD, and requires strong experience in helpdesk operations and technical assistance.

The candidate will work with a multidisciplinary team, manage client relationships, document specifications, and oversee reporting and budgets for government contracts.

Qualifications

• Master's degree with 8+ years of relevant experience or PhD with 5+ years of relevant experience.

Responsibilities

• Interact with the CMS client to understand participant management needs and translate them into requirements and data flows for technical staff.
• Establish protocols, SOPs, specifications, and QA documentation.
• Coordinate with client and contractors to align timelines, processes, and communications.
• Manage a multidisciplinary team, assign tasks, monitor timelines and QA.
• Serve as a technical expert on CMMI model participant management topics.

Skills

CMS contract experience

Helpdesk operations

Technical assistance

Communication skills

Education

Master's degree or PhD in a relevant field

Job description

Westat is seeking a Principal Research Associate to lead implementation and customer support efforts for CMS/CMMI programs. The role is hybrid, with a minimum of two days per week in Bethesda, MD, and requires strong experience in helpdesk operations and technical assistance.

The candidate will work with a multidisciplinary team, manage client relationships, document specifications, and oversee reporting and budgets for government contracts.