Senior Data Analyst - Remote

Optum is a global organization that delivers care, aided by technology to help millions of people live healthier lives. The work you do with our team will directly improve health outcomes by connecting people with the care, pharmacy benefits, data and resources they need to feel their best. Here, you will find a culture guided by inclusion, talented peers, comprehensive benefits and career development opportunities. Come make an impact on the communities we serve as you help us advance health optimization on a global scale. Join us to start Caring. Connecting. Growing together. We are seeking a highly skilled and strategic Senior Data Analyst to lead advanced analytics initiatives across our healthcare operations. This role is responsible for designing and delivering data-driven insights that inform business decisions, improve operational efficiency, and enhance client outcomes. The ideal candidate will be a subject matter expert in healthcare claims data, with deep experience in business intelligence tools, statistical analysis, and stakeholder engagement. As a Senior Data Analyst, you will work closely with cross-functional teams to define data requirements, develop analytical models, and present actionable insights to senior leadership. You'll enjoy the flexibility to work remotely * from anywhere within the U.S. as you take on some tough challenges. For all hires in the Minneapolis or Washington, D.C. area, you will be required to work in the office a minimum of four days per week.

Develop and manage a portfolio of cost savings initiatives with measurable client impact Lead conceptualization to completion of analytics projects and product development efforts Perform iterative analytical and investigative work to support concept development and solution validation Establish and maintain matrixed relationships with internal stakeholders to align and deliver payment integrity initiatives Influence senior leadership to adopt innovative ideas, approaches, and products Recommend changes to product development based on market research and emerging trends Serve as an industry thought leader and SME in professional and facility medical claims, pricing, and cost management Create specifications for data structuring, product modeling, and dashboard development Deliver activity and value analytics to clients and stakeholders using BI and statistical tools Use tools such as Excel, SQL, SAS, Tableau, and PowerPoint to build solutions and communicate insights Act as a company thought leader and functional SME Provide a broad business perspective and support senior leadership Develop pioneering approaches to emerging industry trends Lead cross-functional collaboration and influence without direct authority You'll be rewarded and recognized for your performance in an environment that will challenge you and give you clear direction on what it takes to succeed in your role as well as provide development for other roles you may be interested in.

5+ years of experience in healthcare claims lifecycle (submission, processing, adjudication, payment) 3+ years auditing, billing, and/or coding claims 3+ years in the healthcare industry (Medicare, Medicaid, Commercial, Behavioral Health, Home and Community) with deep exposure to Payment Integrity 2+ years in consultative roles with cross-functional collaboration 2+ years interpreting data sets and presenting proposals to stakeholders 2+ years of project management experience Working knowledge of CMS rules, billing codes, and related services Advanced proficiency in Excel (pivot tables, formulas, charts) Proven solid analytical mindset, critical thinking, and communication skills Proven ability to lead without authority in high-paced environments Preferred Qualifications: An undergraduate degree is solidly preferred, an advanced degree in healthcare or medical field a plus Coding certification (AAPC or AHIMA) 2+ years in claims adjudication or