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Utilization Review Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Utilization Review Tech III

San Mateo, CA ยท On-site

$48.91 - $68.47/hr

Reports out monthly (and as needed) on denials and other utilization management subjects ... Critical thinking skills necessary to provide utilization review/discharge planning services ...

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Utilization Review Manager information

See California salary details

$38.5K

$89.8K

$165.3K

How much do utilization review manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for utilization review manager in California is $89,819.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,700.00 and $108,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Utilization Review Managers in balancing patient care and cost efficiency?

Utilization Review Managers often encounter the challenge of ensuring patients receive appropriate care while also adhering to insurance and regulatory guidelines that emphasize cost efficiency. This requires strong analytical skills to assess clinical information and make fair determinations, often under tight deadlines and with incomplete data. The role also involves frequent communication with physicians, payers, and case managers to resolve disagreements and clarify criteria, making negotiation and diplomacy essential. Staying updated on changing healthcare regulations and payer requirements can add to the complexity, but it also provides opportunities for professional growth and leadership within healthcare administration.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Utilization Review Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Utilization Review Manager, you need a solid background in healthcare management, clinical knowledge (often as an RN or healthcare professional), and experience with utilization review processes. Familiarity with case management software, electronic health records (EHRs), and certifications such as Certified Case Manager (CCM) or Certified Professional in Utilization Review (CPUR) are often expected. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, leadership, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for success in this role. These skills ensure appropriate resource use, regulatory compliance, and coordinated patient care, which are vital for both healthcare quality and operational efficiency.

What is the difference between Utilization Review Manager vs Utilization Review Coordinator?

AspectUtilization Review ManagerUtilization Review Coordinator
CertificationsTypically requires certifications like CCM or ACUMay require similar certifications but often less advanced
Work EnvironmentSupervises review teams, manages processes in healthcare or insurance settingsPerforms case reviews, supports the review process under supervision
Employer & IndustryHospitals, insurance companies, healthcare organizationsInsurance companies, healthcare providers, third-party administrators

The Utilization Review Manager oversees review teams and manages utilization review processes, focusing on policy compliance and efficiency. The Utilization Review Coordinator supports the review process by conducting case assessments and assisting managers. While both roles require similar certifications and work in related environments, the manager holds a supervisory position with broader responsibilities.

What does a Utilization Review Manager do?

A Utilization Review Manager oversees the process of evaluating the necessity, appropriateness, and efficiency of healthcare services provided to patients. They ensure that patient care adheres to established guidelines and that healthcare resources are used effectively. Their duties typically include leading a team of reviewers, collaborating with healthcare providers, ensuring compliance with regulations, and making recommendations on care authorization. The goal is to balance quality patient care with cost-effective resource management.
What are the most commonly searched types of Utilization Review jobs in California? The most popular types of Utilization Review jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Utilization Review Manager jobs? Cities in California with the most Utilization Review Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Utilization Review Manager job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,819 per year, or $43.2 per hour.

Utilization Review Manager (Contra Costa Health Plan)

County of Contra Costa

Martinez, CA โ€ข On-site

$195K - $237K/yr

Other

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

The Position ****Re-Announcement**** *****Open Until Filled***** Why Join Contra Costa County Health Services. The Contra Costa Health Department is seeking to fill two (2) Utilization Review Manager positions in Contra Costa Health Plan, in the Case Management Department located in Martinez, CA. Contra Costa Health Plan (CCHP) is a mission-driven, county-operated managed care organization delivering high-quality health coverage to more than 250,000 members across Medi-Cal, commercial, and beginning in 2026, Medicare-Medi-Cal (D-SNP) lines of business.

Utilization Review Managers serve as managers for the Case Management Department, overseeing case management operations and supervising teams of case managers and case management programs. These roles ensure the delivery of effective care coordination, including care planning and transitions of care, in accordance with regulatory and contractual requirements. We are seeking a strategic, experienced, and collaborative Utilization Review Manager to lead our Utilization Management Department across all lines of business.

This is a pivotal leadership opportunity at a critical moment in CCHP's growth and transformation. With increasing regulatory expectations from the Department of Health Care Services (DHCS), Department of Managed Health Care (DMHC), and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), and the implementation of new care models under CalAIM and the upcoming Medicare and Medi-Cal Dual Special Needs Plan (D-SNP), regulatory compliance is more critical than ever. The Utilization Review Manager will be responsible for leading a team of clinical and administrative staff to ensure timely, compliant, and member-centered utilization management processes.

We are looking for someone who: Has demonstrated experience leading utilization review and prior authorization functions within a managed care or health system environment Understands federal and state regulatory frameworks, including DHCS, DMHC, CMS, and NCQA standards Is an effective people leader who supports staff development, performance management, and cross-functional collaboration Can balance strategic vision with operational detail, helping translate evolving regulatory guidance into real-time implementation Is comfortable in fast-paced, dynamic environments and has the flexibility to adapt processes and policies as the organization evolves What you will typically be responsible for: Managing and monitoring day-to-day clinical review operations and authorizations Leading the development and implementation of utilization management policies and workflows Ensuring turnaround time compliance and accuracy in decision-making and member/provider notifications Preparing for and responding to audits, including CMS, DMHC, and delegated UM reviews Collaborating with internal departments and external providers to support coordinated and efficient member care Developing reports and data tools that drive insights and accountability Interviewing, hiring, orienting, evaluating, counseling, and recommending discipline of staff Supervising and training staff A few reasons why you might love this job: You are passionate about public service and improving care for vulnerable populations You thrive in a mission-driven organization focused on innovation and continuous improvement You enjoy mentoring staff and shaping a high-performing team You are excited by building systems and helping shape the foundation for new programs like D-SNP A few challenges you might face in this job: You will be expected to navigate complex regulatory environments and shifting program requirements The organization is in a period of transformation, and legacy processes may require redesign and improvement Balancing urgent operational demands with long-term strategic planning can be difficult Competencies Required: Analyzing & Interpreting Data: Drawing meaning and conclusions from quantitative or qualitative data Decision Making: Choosing optimal courses of action in a timely manner Delivering Results: Meeting organizational goals and customer expectations and making decisions that produce high-quality results by applying technical knowledge, analyzing problems, and calculating risks Attention to Detail: Focusing on the details of work content, work steps, and final work products Self-Management: Showing personal organization, self-discipline, and dependability Writing: Communicating effectively in writing Customer Focus: Attending to the needs and expectations of customers Leadership: Guiding and encouraging others to accomplish a common goal Driving Results: Demonstrating concern for achieving or surpassing results against an internal standard of excellence To read the complete job description, please click here. The eligible list established from this recruitment may be used to fill future openings for up to six (6) months. Minimum Qualifications License Required: Candidates must possess and maintain throughout the duration of employment: a current, valid, and unrestricted license as a Registered Nurse issued by the California Board of Registered Nursing.

Applicants are required to attach a copy of their license to their application. Education: Possession of a bachelor's degree in nursing from an accredited college or university. Experience: Three (3) years of full-time, or its equivalent, experience as a Registered Nurse in a managed care organization (i.e

HMO), two (2) years of which must have included experience as a Utilization Review Nurse, Discharge Planner, or Case Management Nurse, one (1) year of which must have been in a supervisory capacity. Substitution: Two (2) additional years in a Nurse Supervisor capacity may be substituted for the Bachelor's degree. A Master's Degree in nursing, hospital or health care administration or a closely related field may be substituted for one (1) year of experience as a Registered Nurse.

No substitution is allowed for the required one (1) year of supervisory experience. Selection Process Application Filing and Evaluation: Applicants will be required to complete a supplemental questionnaire at the time of application. Applications will be evaluated to determine which candidates will move forward in the next phase of the recruitment process.

Training & Experience Evaluation: At the time of filing, candidates will be required to complete a supplemental questionnaire, which will be used for the training and experience evaluation. Candidates who clearly demonstrate that they possess the minimum qualifications will have their training and experience evaluated. The responses to the supplemental questions, at the time of filing, will be evaluated to determine each candidate's relevant education, training, and/or experience as presented on the application and supplemental questionnaire.

(Weighted 100%) The Human Resources Department may change the examination steps noted above in accordance with the Personnel Management Regulations and accepted selection practices. CONVICTION HISTORY After you receive a conditional job offer, you will be fingerprinted, and your fingerprints will be sent to the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The resulting report of your conviction history (if any) will be used to determine whether the nature of your conviction conflicts with the specific duties and responsibilities of the job for which you have received a conditional job offer.

If a conflict exists, you will be asked to present any evidence of rehabilitation that may mitigate the conflict, except when federal or state regulations bar employment in specific circumstances. Having a conviction history does not automatically preclude you from a job with Contra Costa County. If you accept a conditional job offer, the Human Resources department will contact you to schedule a fingerprinting appointment.

DISASTER SERVICE WORKER All Contra Costa County employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state and local law. Employment with the County requires the affirmation of a loyalty oath to this effect. Employees are required to complete all Disaster Service Worker-related training as assigned, and to return to work as ordered in the event of an emergency.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY It is the policy of Contra Costa County to consider all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ethnicity, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, ancestry, medical condition, genetic information, military or veteran status, or other protected category under the law.