Principal Qualitative Researcher, Federal Health Program Implementation and Evaluation

Full-time

At Commence, we’re the start of a new age of data-centric transformation, elevating health outcomes and powering better, more efficient process to program and patient health. We combine quality data-driven solutions that fuel answers, technology that advances performance, and clinical expertise that builds trust to create a more efficient path to quality care.

With human-centered, healthcare-relevant, and value-based solutions, we create new possibilities with data. We provide proof beyond the concept and performance beyond the scope with a focus on efficiencies that transform the lives of those we serve. With a culture driven by purpose, straightforward communication and clinical domain expertise, Commence cuts straight to better care.

The Principal Quantitative Researcher, Alternative Payment Model Implementation and Evaluation plays a pivotal role in the implementation and operation of healthcare programs and initiatives, the generation of actionable insights that inform decision-making for federal agencies such as the CMS Innovation Center (CMMI), and Commence’s growth in federal health research.

This position leads the design and execution of implementation, operations and evaluation tasks for CMS/CMMI alternative payment models (APMs).

Working closely with Commence’s data science and technology teams, the researcher helps bring advanced analytics to model implementation and evaluation by leveraging the capabilities of the Commence platform, driving greater efficiency and deeper insights.

The ideal candidate combines hands‑on implementation and/or evaluation experience on CMS/CMMI APMs with strong analytical, managerial, client-engagement and storytelling skills, a strategic mindset, and a passion for driving measurable improvements in health care quality and value.

• Lead the translation of model design documents and policy goals into operational methodologies and specifications using Medicare and Medicaid claims, enrollment, and programmatic data, as well as other data sources including surveys and census data.
• Implementation:
  Lead the development, refinement, and implementation of value-based care methodologies, including participant screening and monitoring; beneficiary attribution; payment mechanisms, benchmarking and financial adjustments including risk adjustment; selection, adaptation, and scoring of quality measures.
• Evaluation:
  Lead the design and execution of evaluations, including monitoring methodologies, comparison groups (e.g., propensity score matching, synthetic controls) and quasi-experimental designs (e.g., difference-in-differences, event studies) to estimate impact on healthcare spending, utilization, and quality.
• Partner with economists, data scientists, and engineers to conduct research, create prototypes, and apply ML-based methods on the Commence platform to develop novel approaches to conduct implementation and evaluation work.
• Lead the write up of methodology documents, evaluation reports, and briefings for CMMI model teams, turning findings into clear, actionable recommendations.
• Lead the design and write up of technical approaches for CMS/CMMI and other federal agency proposals and serve in key project roles; mentor junior researchers and analysts.
• Effectively manage teams, set priorities, coordinate tasks, engage clients and stakeholders, and ensure high-quality reports and products are delivered on time and within budget.

• Ph.D. in economics, health services research, health policy, public health, or a related field with 9+ years of relevant experience; or a Master’s degree with 13+ years.
• Hands‑on experience implementing and/or evaluating CMS/CMMI alternative payment models; experience with both is…