Senior Research Scientist - Program Integrity Analytics - Research Analysis Specialist, Senior

Minnesota Department of Human Services; Saint Paul (MN); On-site; USD 69,000 - 101,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Pension plan

Paid time off

Job summary

Minnesota Department of Human Services is seeking a Senior Research Scientist - Program Integrity Analytics to lead statewide data analytics, research, and program evaluations within Healthcare Eligibility and Access (HCEA) Program Integrity and Oversight. The role develops analytics strategies, dashboards, predictive models, and automated processes to improve oversight and inform executive decisions.

The position requires 3+ years in research design and evaluation, with expertise in statistical

Qualifications

• Three (3) years of professional experience with research design and program evaluation methodologies.
• Experience with statistical modeling and data analysis to support policy decisions.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Power BI, Power Query, DAX, Power Automate and Excel.

Skills

Statistical modeling

Predictive analytics

Longitudinal analysis

Hypothesis testing

Tools

Power BI

DAX

Power Query

Power Automate

Excel

Job description

Working Title: Senior Research Scientist - Program Integrity Analytics

Job Class: Research Analysis Specialist Senior

Agency: Human Services Dept

• Job ID: 97725
• Location: St. Paul
• Telework Eligible: Yes
• Full/Part Time: Full-Time
• Regular/Temporary: Unlimited
• Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
• Date Posted: 10/14/2026
• Closing Date: 10/27/2026
• Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Human Services Dept / MAPE DHS Central Office
• Division/Unit: Health Care Administration / Eligibility and Access
• Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift / 8:00am - 4:30pm
• Days of Work: Monday - Friday
• Travel Required: No
• Salary Range: $32.97 - $48.60 / hourly; $68,841 - $101,476 / annually
• Classified Status: Classified
• Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Assoc of Professional Empl/MAPE
• FLSA Status: Nonexempt
• Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: Yes

The Department of Human Services is unable to provide sponsorship for work visas. Applicants must be eligible to work in the United States at the start of employment. DHS does not participate in E-Verify.

The work you'll do is more than just a job.

At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well‑being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.

This position is eligible for telework for applicants who reside in Minnesota or in a bordering state, with supervisory approval and satisfactory performance. If you live in a state bordering Minnesota, you must live within 50 miles or less from the primary work location to be eligible for telework.

This position exists to serve as the statewide lead for data analytics, research, business intelligence, automation, and performance monitoring for Healthcare Eligibility and Access (HCEA) Program Integrity and Oversight (PIO). The incumbent independently plans, designs, and conducts complex research studies, program evaluations, and advanced data analyses to assess the effectiveness, quality, consistency, and compliance of Minnesota Health Care Programs administered by counties and tribal agencies. The position develops statewide analytics strategies, enterprise reporting solutions, predictive models, and automated business processes that identify emerging risks, evaluate program outcomes, improve oversight, and support executive decision‑making, legislative initiatives, audits, policy development, and continuous quality improvement through evidence-based recommendations.

Minimum Qualifications

Three (3) years of professional experience with research design, program evaluation methodologies, quantitative and qualitative research methods, statistical analysis, and evidence-based decision‑making.

Experience must demonstrate:

• Knowledge of statistical modeling, predictive analytics, sampling methodologies, longitudinal analysis, and hypothesis testing sufficient to evaluate program effectiveness, identify emerging risks, assess intervention outcomes, and support policy and operational decision‑making.
• Experience with using systems such as; Microsoft Power BI, DAX, Power Query, Power Automate, and Excel

Preferred Qualifications

• Ability to integrate and analyze multiple data sources, including healthcare program data, compliance findings, audit results, performance measures, and operational data to identify trends, risks, and improvement opportunities.
• Ability to design and lead complex statewide analytical studies, program evaluations, and assessments that inform oversight strategies and organizational priorities.
• Knowledge of healthcare eligibility programs, Medicaid administration, county and tribal program operations, compliance monitoring, corrective action processes, audits, and quality improvement practices.
• Ability to develop performance measures, dashboards, and reporting standards that improve accountability, transparency, and consistency across statewide operations.
• Ability to communicate complex analytical findings, risks, and recommendations clearly to executive leadership, program staff, county and tribal partners, and other stakeholders.
• Ability to provide consultation and technical guidance on data governance, reporting practices, automation opportunities, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Variety of experiences working effectively with others from different backgrounds and cultures.

Additional Requirements

To facilitate proper crediting, please ensure that your resume clearly describes your experience in the areas listed and indicates the beginning and ending month and year for each job held.

REFERENCE/BACKGROUND CHECKS - The Department of Human Services will conduct reference checks to verify job‑related credentials and criminal background check prior to appointment.

About Human Services Dept

WE MAKE A DIFFERENCE! The Minnesota Department of Human Services impacts the lives of 1.7 million people every year, helping them meet their basic needs so they can achieve their highest potential.

Working together to improve the state we love.

What do Minnesota's State employees have in common?

• A sense of purpose in their work
• Connection with their coworkers and communities
• Opportunities for personal and professional growth

Benefits

As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well.

Your benefits may include:

• Paid vacation and sick leave
• 12 paid holidays each year
• Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans
  • Fertility care, including IVF
  • Diabetes care
  • Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children
• 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children
• Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years)
• Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death
• Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury
• Tax‑free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care
• Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well‑being

Support to help you reach your career goals:

• Training, classes, and professional development
• Tuition reimbursement
• Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov)

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for work/life support:

• A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well‑being, or job performance
• Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues
• Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care

Programs, resources and benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS

Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran‑friendly employers. State agencies are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and strongly encourages persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve Minnesotans.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and disabilities related to pregnancy or childbirth), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status regarding public assistance, disability, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.

Applicants With Disabilities

Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to their employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the State of Minnesota, call the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email [e-mail] and let us know the support you need.