Senior/Principal Researcher, Medicaid Policy and Program (Remote Eligible)

Mathematica; Ann Arbor (MI); On-site; USD 145,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

Mathematica is looking for a seasoned Senior Researcher or Principal Researcher based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, specializing in Medicaid and CHIP programs. The role involves leading multidisciplinary teams, offering consulting services, and developing health policies while leveraging data science.

Ideal candidates must have extensive experience in Medicaid, strong quantitative/qualitative skills, and excellent communication abilities. Competitive salaries range from $145,000 to $200,000, according to qualifications. Annual bonuses are available based on performance.

Qualifications

• 10+ years (Senior Researcher) or 15+ years (Principal Researcher) of experience in Medicaid leadership.
• Strong knowledge of health policy issues.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Direct teams for Medicaid project implementation.
• Provide consulting services for health policy development.
• Engage with clients to develop innovative solutions.
• Apply analytical thinking to data interpretation.
• Lead proposals for new projects.

Skills

Medicaid and CHIP expertise

Data analysis

Policy development

Leadership

Communication skills

Education

Master's or doctoral degree in relevant field

Job description

About Mathematica

Mathematica applies expertise at the intersection of data, methods, policy, and practice to improve well‑being around the world. We collaborate closely with public‑ and private‑sector partners to translate big questions into deep insights that improve programs, refine strategies, and enhance understanding using data science and analytics. Our work yields actionable information to guide decisions in wide‑ranging policy areas, from health, education, early childhood, and family support to nutrition, employment, disability, and international development. Mathematica offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package, and as a 100 % employee‑owned firm, employees benefit from ESOP holdings that grow with the company’s financial strength.

Role Overview

Mathematica is seeking a seasoned professional with experience leading Medicaid and CHIP programs and guiding policy development and implementation at the state level. The candidate will bring expertise in Medicaid and CHIP eligibility, enrollment, managed care, health systems finance, operations, data, systems, or provider reimbursement, and ideally have served as a senior state health official or comparable role.

Responsibilities

• Direct multidisciplinary teams to provide technical assistance, implementation support, and monitoring for projects supporting federal and state Medicaid agencies in areas of their relevant expertise.
• Provide consulting services, support new health policy development, advise on reimbursement policy, and assist with submissions to CMS and other approving entities as appropriate.
• Engage with state and federal clients to understand challenges and collaboratively develop innovative solutions.
• Apply rigorous analytic thinking to the collection and interpretation of quantitative data, most commonly leveraging Medicaid and CHIP administrative data.
• Direct business development efforts and lead proposals for new projects.
• Author project reports, memos, issue briefs, webinar presentations, and represent Mathematica to policy and professional audiences.
• Contribute to the growth, expertise, and institutional knowledge of staff working in the Medicaid and CHIP area, including active mentorship.

Required Qualifications

• Senior state Medicaid leader with at least 10 years of experience (Senior Researcher) or 15 years of experience (Principal Researcher) collaborating with stakeholders to implement quality and service delivery improvements.
• Master’s or doctoral degree or equivalent experience in data analytics, public health, public policy, economics, behavioral or social sciences, or other relevant discipline.
• Strong foundation in quantitative and/or qualitative methods and a broad understanding of health policy issues.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, including the ability to explain observations and findings to diverse stakeholder audiences.
• Demonstrated ability to provide project leadership, coordinate multidisciplinary work, and apply careful and sound judgment.
• Ability to problem‑solve and support other staff or clients in problem‑solving.
• Strong organizational skills and high attention to detail; adaptability and flexibility to lead and manage multiple priorities under deadlines.
• Proven track record for producing high‑quality deliverables and a commitment to excellence.

Background Check and Eligibility

Staff contracted with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) must successfully complete a background investigation. Failure to obtain the required clearance may result in re‑staffing or termination due to lack of work.

Salary and Bonus

The Senior Researcher role offers an anticipated annual base salary range of $145,000 – $160,000. The Principal Researcher role offers an anticipated annual base salary range of $150,000 – $200,000. Both positions are eligible for annual bonuses based on individual and company performance.

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, or disability.