ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Behavioral Health Utilization Management Jobs in Arizona

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsBehavioral Health Utilization Management JobsBehavioral Health Utilization Management Jobs in Arizona

Behavioral Health Utilization Management information

See Arizona salary details

$19

$39

$64

How much do behavioral health utilization management jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for behavioral health utilization management in Arizona is $39.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.15 and $45.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Behavioral Health Utilization Management vs Behavioral Health Case Manager?

AspectBehavioral Health Utilization ManagementBehavioral Health Case Manager
CredentialsLicenses (e.g., RN, LCSW), certifications in utilization reviewLicenses (e.g., LCSW, LPC), case management certifications
Work EnvironmentInsurance companies, healthcare organizations, utilization review departmentsHospitals, community clinics, outpatient facilities
Employer & Industry UsageHealth insurance providers, managed care organizationsBehavioral health agencies, hospitals, outpatient clinics

Behavioral Health Utilization Management focuses on reviewing and authorizing mental health services to ensure appropriate care and cost management. In contrast, Behavioral Health Case Managers coordinate ongoing patient care, providing support and resources to improve treatment outcomes. Both roles require relevant licenses and certifications but differ in their primary responsibilities and work settings.

What are some common challenges faced by Behavioral Health Utilization Management professionals, and how are they typically addressed?

Behavioral Health Utilization Management professionals often encounter challenges such as managing high caseloads, keeping up with evolving clinical guidelines, and ensuring timely communication with providers and insurance companies. Balancing the need for cost containment with advocating for appropriate patient care can also be demanding. These challenges are typically addressed through ongoing training, strong teamwork, and the use of evidence-based criteria and decision-support tools to guide determinations and streamline workflows.

What is Behavioral Health Utilization Management?

Behavioral Health Utilization Management is a process used by insurance companies and healthcare organizations to evaluate the necessity, appropriateness, and efficiency of behavioral health services such as mental health and substance use treatments. This process helps ensure that patients receive the right level of care based on clinical guidelines while managing healthcare costs. Utilization managers review treatment plans, authorize services, and coordinate with providers to promote quality outcomes and avoid unnecessary services. Their work is essential in balancing patient needs with resource allocation in the healthcare system.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Behavioral Health Utilization Management professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Behavioral Health Utilization Management professional, you need a background in behavioral health or clinical care, often with an RN, LCSW, LPC, or similar licensure and experience in mental health care settings. Familiarity with utilization review software, insurance guidelines, and electronic health record (EHR) systems is crucial. Strong analytical thinking, communication, and negotiation skills are essential soft skills to effectively evaluate treatment plans and coordinate with providers. These competencies are vital to ensuring appropriate, cost-effective care while maintaining compliance with regulatory and payer requirements.
What are popular job titles related to Behavioral Health Utilization Management jobs in Arizona? For Behavioral Health Utilization Management jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Behavioral Health Utilization Management jobs in Arizona look for? The top searched job categories for Behavioral Health Utilization Management jobs in Arizona are:
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Behavioral Health Utilization Management jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most Behavioral Health Utilization Management job openings:
Behavioral Health Utilization Management jobs near you
Infographic showing various Behavioral Health Utilization Management job openings in Arizona as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,956 per year, or $39.4 per hour.

Utilization Review (UR) Coordinator / Authorization Representative [Clinical Experience Preferred] -

Sanctuary Recovery Centers

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

$24 - $29/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Utilization Review (UR) Coordinator / Authorization Representative [Clinical Experience Preferred] - Behavioral Health
Employment Type: Full-Time
Schedule: In-office, Monday through Friday
Position Overview
We are seeking a detail-oriented and highly organized Utilization Review (UR) Coordinator / Authorization Representative [clinical experience preferred]. This role is responsible for managing authorizations, ensuring medical necessity documentation, and maintaining compliance with AHCCCS (Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System) requirements.
The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, demonstrates strong knowledge of behavioral health utilization management, and has a proven ability to manage high client volumes while maintaining strict adherence to timely filing and regulatory standards.
Key Responsibilities
  • Obtain, track, and manage initial and concurrent authorizations for behavioral health services
  • Coordinate and complete utilization review processes in compliance with AHCCCS guidelines and medical necessity criteria
  • Submit timely and accurate authorization requests, ensuring adherence to payer-specific timely filing requirements
  • Monitor authorizations for expiration and proactively manage concurrent reviews to prevent gaps in coverage
  • Communicate effectively with clinical staff, payers, and case managers to gather necessary documentation and ensure continuity of care
  • Maintain accurate and up-to-date records in the EHR and authorization tracking systems
  • Review clinical documentation for completeness and alignment with medical necessity standards
  • Manage a high volume of client cases, prioritizing tasks to meet deadlines and avoid service disruptions
  • Follow up on pending authorizations, denials, and appeals as needed
  • Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and AHCCCS regulations, as well as internal policies and procedures

Qualifications
  • Minimum of [2+] years of experience in utilization review, authorizations, or behavioral health administration
  • Clinical experience (peer service, clinician, etc.) that could aid in the review of clinical necessity.
  • Strong working knowledge of AHCCCS requirements, including authorization processes and compliance standards
  • Experience with timely filing requirements and payer-specific guidelines
  • Proven ability to manage high caseloads and concurrent reviews in a fast-paced environment
  • Familiarity with behavioral health levels of care (e.g., RTC, PHP, IOP, outpatient)
  • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Experience with EHR systems and authorization tracking tools
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience working with Medicaid/managed care plans, specifically AHCCCS
  • Knowledge of InterQual, ASAM, or other medical necessity criteria tools
  • Previous experience handling denials, appeals, and peer-to-peers

Compensation
  • Pay Range: $24-$29 per hour (DOE)

Key Competencies
  • Time management and prioritization
  • Accuracy and compliance-driven mindset
  • Critical thinking and problem-solving
  • Ability to handle sensitive information with confidentiality (HIPAA compliance)
  • Adaptability in a high-volume, deadline-driven environment

Why Join Us
  • Opportunity to make a meaningful impact in behavioral health care
  • Collaborative and mission-driven team environment
  • Competitive compensation and benefits package
  • Professional growth and development opportunities

Note: This position requires strict adherence to AHCCCS guidelines, timely filing requirements, and all applicable regulatory standards. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to manage multiple concurrent authorizations while maintaining accuracy and compliance.
As part of our commitment to maintaining a safe and productive work environment, Sanctuary Recovery Centers conducts background checks and drug screenings for all potential employees. Please note the following:
  1. Background Check: All offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. This may include verification of employment history, education, criminal records, and other relevant information.
  2. Drug Screening: Candidates must pass a drug screening test as a condition of employment. This test will screen for the presence of illegal substances and may include random testing during employment.
  3. APS Registry: Candidates must pass an APS (Adult Protective Services) registry check before an offer of employment can be extended.
  4. Confidentiality: All information obtained during the background check, drug screening, and APS registry check process will be kept confidential and used solely for employment purposes.
  5. Compliance: Sanctuary Recovery Centers complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws regarding background checks, drug screenings, and APS registry checks.

By applying for this position, you acknowledge and consent to these procedures.

Apply