Applied Social Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Position Information
Position Information
EEO Statement
Working Title
Research Specialist I, II, or Senior Research Specialist
Department
Public Policy Center-1525
Requisition Number
S_260661
Posting Open Date
08/18/2026
Application Review Date: (To ensure consideration, please submit all application materials before review date)
09/03/2026
Posting Close Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
Description of Work
Work with dynamic teams on variety of public policy projects, including those in behavioral health, public participation, and other applied social sciences endeavors. Will conduct and facilitate research, coordinate projects and stakeholder involvement processes, design survey instruments, collect and analyze data, assist with writing reports, and present findings that impact state, local and federal policy. Some travel required.
Please note: Sponsorship will not be offered for this position.
The University of Nebraska does not discriminate based on race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation in its programs, activities, or employment. See https://equity.unl.edu/notice-nondiscrimination/.
Minimum Required Qualifications
Research Specialist I:Bachelor's degree plus one (1) year of experience researching and presenting policy reports. Knowledge of and experience with community and statewide public policy issues. Outstanding verbal, interpersonal, planning, and writing skills; the ability to work effectively and collaboratively with national, state, and local policymakers and stakeholders; the ability to multitask and perform assigned tasked quickly and accurately.
Research Specialist II:
Bachelor's degree plus two (2) years of experience researching and presenting policy reports. Knowledge of and experience with community and statewide public policy issues. Outstanding verbal, interpersonal, planning, and writing skills; the ability to work effectively and collaboratively with national, state, and local policymakers and stakeholders; the ability to multitask and perform assigned tasked quickly and accurately.
Senior Research Specialist:
Bachelor's degree plus four (4) years of experience researching and presenting policy reports. Experience with project administration. Knowledge of and experience with community and statewide public policy issues. Outstanding verbal, interpersonal, planning, and writing skills required; the ability to work effectively and collaboratively with national, state, and local policymakers and stakeholders; the ability to multitask and perform assigned tasked quickly and accurately.
All applicants must possess a valid driver's license and meet University driver eligibility requirements.
Preferred Qualifications
Research Specialist I:Demonstrated experience working with policy makers and other stakeholders, problem solving and decision making, working independently with minimal supervision, keeping supervisor and internal team members informed, and providing excellent customer relations. Ability to: translate academic research to accessible quality policy reports; quickly master a range of content areas; coordinate a wide variety of projects. Excellent written communication and analytic skills. Knowledge of behavioral health, public participation processes, and/or social sciences applied research preferred. Ability and flexibility to perform other tasks as assigned.
Research Specialist II:Master's degree. Demonstrated experience working with policy makers and other stakeholders, problem solving and decision making, working independently with minimal supervision, keeping supervisor and internal team members informed, and providing excellent customer relations. Ability to: translate academic research to accessible quality policy reports; quickly master a range of content areas; coordinate a wide variety of projects. Excellent written communication and analytic skills. Knowledge of behavioral health, public participation processes, and/or social sciences applied research preferred. Ability and flexibility to perform other tasks as assigned.
Senior Research Specialist:
Master's degree plus two (2) years of experience researching and presenting policy reports. Demonstrated experience working with policy makers and other stakeholders, problem solving and decision making, working independently with minimal supervision, keeping supervisor and internal team members informed, and providing excellent customer relations. Ability to: translate academic research to accessible quality policy reports; quickly master a range of content areas; coordinate a wide variety of projects. Ability and flexibility to perform other tasks as assigned. Excellent written communication and analytic skills. Knowledge of behavioral health, public participation processes, and/or social sciences applied research preferred.
Pre-Placement Driving Record Review Required
Yes
Physical Required
No
Commercial Driver's License (CDL) required. Subject to DOT approved pre-employment & random testing for alcohol and controlled substances.
No
Criminal History Background Check Required
Yes
Posted Salary
RSI: $44,700; RSII: $53,600; Sr. RS: $63,100 minimum
How to Apply
Click "Apply to this Job". You will then either create an application or edit your current application that is on file. Attach a resume, cover letter, list of references, and writing sample as four (4) separate documents in MS Word or PDF format. The writing sample should be attached as the "other document."
For questions or accommodations related to this position contact
Sandy Airan, sairan2@unl.edu
Job Category (old)
Managerial/Professional
Job Type
Full-Time
Alternate Work Schedule (if other than 8-5)
Work Location (City, State)
Lincoln, NE
Position funded by grant or other form of temporary funding?
Yes
If Temporary, indicate end date
Planned Hire Date:
Appointment End Date