Research & Development Specialist

Center for Social Dynamics•Phoenix, AZ

10d•$65,000 - $75,000•Remote

About The Position

Launching behavioral health services in a new market takes more than vision - it requires deep research, precision, and the ability to turn complex systems into actionable plans. As a Research & Development Specialist on CSD’s Emerging Markets Team, you will help lay the operational and regulatory foundation that allows new outpatient programs to launch successfully. At Center for Social Dynamics, breakthroughs happen when thoughtful preparation meets mission-driven action. In this role, you will research payer requirements, regulatory expectations, and operational pathways that accelerate our ability to bring high-quality behavioral health care to new communities. This is a high-ownership opportunity for someone who thrives in fast-moving environments, enjoys solving complex problems, and takes pride in turning detailed research into clear guidance that helps teams move forward with confidence.

Requirements

3+ years of experience in healthcare research & development, payer operations, contracting, credentialing, compliance, or similar fields
Deep commitment to accuracy, strong documentation practices, and a reputation for meticulous work
Ability to synthesize large volumes of information into clear, concise guidance.
Experience applying payer or regulatory requirements to workflows or operational processes
Highly independent work style with strong ownership, organization, and follow-through.
Excellent communication skills and comfort working cross-functionally
Extreme attention to detail
High accountability and ownership
Strong problem-solving skills
Ability to operate independently
Fast and accurate information synthesis
Effective cross-functional communication
Start-up mindset and bias toward action
Constant visual stimulation, including close vision, distance vision, reading, computer work
Constant sitting; frequent up and down out of chair
Constant use of telephone, speaking, listening
Constant document handling, use of copier and fax machine, filing
Frequent typing, use of computer
Occasional walking around building
Occasional bending, reaching, stooping, pulling
Occasional lifting, carrying, moving of items up to 20 pounds
Occasional walking to, bending to enter, sitting and using upper and lower limbs to drive car

Nice To Haves

Experience in ABA, behavioral health, Medicaid-funded programs, or multi-state healthcare organizations.
Background in de-novo market development or start-up environments.
Direct experience with payer credentialing, billing setup, and contracting processes.

Responsibilities

Partnering with the Head of Emerging Markets, the Research & Development Administrator plays a pivotal role in supporting CSD’s expansion into new outpatient behavioral health markets.
As part of our start-up-oriented Emerging Markets Team, you will work to uncover payor, regulatory, and operational requirements; compile and pre-fill key applications; and translate complex information into actionable insights that accelerate market launch while collaborating with cross functional teams for ongoing growth and development.
Contracting & Credentialing Conduct market research on all key payors within the market
Ensure all steps and processes are outlined for contracting, credentialing, and billing to ensure rapid market entry
Research and strategize requirements for payor network applications, credentialing packets, and operational forms
Pre-fill and compile necessary documentation for cross-functional contracting, credentialing, and billing teams
Analyze prior authorization, billing, and claims requirements and summarize in actionable formats for cross functional teams
Payor Requirements Research payor specific guidelines and requirements for providers including but not limited to licensure, education, background checks, healthcare requirements, and more
Business Development Support legal requirements and operational readiness by researching city licensure, zoning rules, business requirements, and vendor logistics
Assist with center operations setup including location procurement, utilities activation, local vendor onboarding, and event launch coordination
Outreach Identify key community partners, high-value targets, events, and membership opportunities to support local outreach and marketing opportunities
Additional job duties as assigned