Company Overview

Founded in 1990, Kauffman & Associates, Inc. (KAI), is an American Indian– and woman-owned management consulting firm dedicated to improving the lives of vulnerable populations and enhancing the reach and effectiveness of social sector organizations. We combine stories of lived experiences with meaningful, data-driven insights to reach underserved communities. We work closely with federal, tribal, state, and regional governments; associations; foundations; and private-sector businesses. At KAI, we do work that matters!

Senior Advisor on Indian Health System

The Senior Advisor on Indian Health System (Senior Advisor) is a key member of KAI and will provide subject matter expertise (SME) support across all KAI service lines and projects. The Senior Advisor provides expertise on the Indian health delivery system (IHS, tribal, urban), health finance, intergovernmental relations (federal, state, county) impacting tribal health, and challenges/opportunities related to health care in Indian Country.

This position reports to the Vice President for Tribal Relations and Learning.

Essential Job Functions

• Provide thought leadership and strategic advisory on issues related to the Indian health (I/T/U) delivery system
• Lead projects with tribal clients in developing 638 contracts/compacts for the administration and operation of IHS activities
• Identify promising practices for optimizing Medicaid funding (e.g., through state plan amendments)
• Develop strategies for tribal clients to utilize diverse IHS funding opportunities (e.g., 105 L leases, joint venture construction program)
• Conduct expert research to develop accurate analyses and summaries of Indian health policies and Medicaid regulations (nationally and for select states)
• Provide expert-level support to produce and deliver culturally resonant and accessible training, resources, and products for clients (tribal, state, and federal governments)
• Facilitate virtual and in-person planning meetings with clients (e.g., tribal health clinic, state Medicaid office, CMS Tribal Affairs), on topics related to the Indian health delivery system

Contact with Others

The Senior Advisor shall regularly communicate with service line Vice Presidents, Project Managers, and Project Specialists. The Senior Advisor is expected to be accessible and available during normal working hours.

The Senior Advisor is expected to communicate complex situations in a logical, step-by-step approach to reach solution-based strategies. Understanding that when discussing proprietary, confidential, and/ or sensitive information shared during regular communication with clients and staff, the Senior Advisor shall use discretion and seek guidance from their direct supervisor before sharing information with others, including KAI staff members and consultants.

Specific Job Skills

• Expert knowledge of Indian health delivery system and Indian health policy
• Deep knowledge of health finance, Medicaid in particular
• Knowledge of relevant federal Indian law
• Strong problem-solving skills and judgment
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a larger team
• Exceptional communication skills (listening, speaking, reading, and writing)
• Exceptional public speaking skills, adaptable to a range of audiences
• Exceptional facilitation skills
• Exceptional leadership capabilities
• Innovative/creative problem-solving skills
• Proficient in Microsoft Suite

Education & Experience

• Advanced degree preferred (e.g., JD, MPH, MPA, PhD)
• Extensive tribal or urban Indian health experience and knowledge (required)
• Minimum of 10 years’ experience working with American Indian, Alaska Native, and urban Indian communities in health (required)
• Prior experience working for the Indian Health Service, tribal health program, or state Medicaid office (strongly preferred)

Job Conditions

This full-time position requires extensive office work, computer work, and some travel based on contract and client needs.

Benefit Summary

• 80% company paid medical insurance premiums, portion of family paid
• 50% company paid dental insurance premiums, portion of family paid
• Vision insurance
• $50K life insurance
• Partial internet reimbursement
• 100% remote work
• Matching 401K
• EAP