ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Background Research Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

ECORP CONSULTING

Associate Archaeologist

Redlands, CA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

... background research to inform project planning and execution. - Support project and business development activities through collaboration and effective communication with clients and stakeholders ...

ECORP CONSULTING

Associate Archaeologist

Irvine, CA

$25 - $35/hr

... background research to inform project planning and execution. - Support project and business development activities through collaboration and effective communication with clients and stakeholders ...

White and Case LLP

Researcher

Los Angeles, CA · Hybrid

$113K - $170K/yr

Provides competitive intelligence and background research on current or potential clients and markets in support of business and client development efforts. * Proactively and independently assesses ...

Wood Plc

Archaeological Field Technician

Sacramento, CA · Remote

$24 - $32/hr

Perform background research including record searches and archival historical documentation searches. * Conduct Native American and NAHC consultations. * Participate in Phase I surveys and Extended ...

Wood Plc

Archaeological Field Technician

Riverside, CA · Remote

$24 - $32/hr

Perform background research including record searches and archival historical documentation searches. * Conduct Native American and NAHC consultations. * Participate in Phase I surveys and Extended ...

DaVinci Research

Clinical Research Coordinator

Roseville, CA · On-site

$25.50 - $33.75/hr

Strong background in Research, including data collection and analysis * Clinical Research Experience and familiarity with Clinical Trials processes * Phlebotomy Certified * Excellent organizational ...

Murphy Research

Research Associate

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$50K - $52K/yr

You have a background in the social sciences: degree or lab experience in psychology, sociology, or anthropology preferred; you're familiar with quantitative and qualitative research methods from ...

Murphy Research

Research Associate

Los Angeles, CA

$50K - $52K/yr

You have a background in the social sciences: degree or lab experience in psychology, sociology, or anthropology preferred; you're familiar with quantitative and qualitative research methods from ...

Murphy Research

Research Associate

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$50K - $52K/yr

You have a background in the social sciences: degree or lab experience in psychology, sociology, or anthropology preferred; you're familiar with quantitative and qualitative research methods from ...

Amicis Research Center

Be Seen First

Clinical Research Coordinator

Santa Clarita, CA · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in clinical research, data management, and patient monitoring, with a commitment to maintaining high standards of quality and ethics in research ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsBackground Research JobsBackground Research Jobs in California

Background Research information

See California salary details

$10

$32

$57

How much do background research jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for background research in California is $32.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.54 and $50.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is background research?

Background research is the process of gathering and analyzing information about a topic, person, organization, or event before beginning a project, investigation, or decision-making process. It helps provide context, verify facts, and uncover relevant details that may influence the outcome of the main task. This type of research is commonly used in academic, business, legal, and journalistic settings to ensure accuracy and informed decision-making.

What is the difference between Background Research vs Market Research?

AspectBackground ResearchMarket Research
PurposeGathering information about a person, organization, or topic to understand its history, credentials, or context.Analyzing market trends, customer needs, and industry data to inform business decisions.
CredentialsOften requires research skills, data analysis, and familiarity with sources like databases and public records.Requires skills in data collection, statistical analysis, and understanding of market dynamics.
Work EnvironmentTypically conducted in research or investigative settings, often desk-based.Usually performed in marketing, consulting, or business strategy environments.
UsageUsed by HR, investigators, or professionals verifying backgrounds.Used by marketing teams, business analysts, and product managers.

Background Research focuses on collecting detailed information about individuals or entities, while Market Research analyzes industry data to guide business strategies. Both require analytical skills but serve different objectives within their respective fields.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in background research roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in background research often encounter challenges such as verifying the accuracy of information, managing large volumes of data, and meeting tight deadlines. To address these challenges, it's essential to develop strong organizational skills and become proficient with research tools and databases. Clear communication with team members and stakeholders also helps ensure that research findings are relevant and properly integrated into larger projects. Regularly updating your knowledge of best practices and emerging resources in the field will also support your effectiveness in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a background researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Background Researcher, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and proficiency in research methodologies, typically supported by a degree in a relevant field such as social sciences or journalism. Familiarity with online databases, public records, and research tools like LexisNexis or Factiva is commonly required. Excellent written communication, critical thinking, and discretion are valuable soft skills that help in delivering reliable and confidential findings. These skills and qualities are crucial for providing accurate, thorough, and actionable research that informs decision-making processes.
What are popular job titles related to Background Research jobs in California? For Background Research jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Background Research jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Background Research jobs in California are:
Background Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Background Research job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,119 per year, or $32.3 per hour.

Engineering Research Assistant

Chapman University

Orange, CA

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Chapman University rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

260th of 618 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Student Title Classification Information
Quick Link https://chapman.peopleadmin.com/postings/39939 Job Number SE205724
Position Information
Department or Unit Name Fowler School of Engineering Position Headcount 2 Position Title Engineering Research Assistant Academic Year Summer 2026 Term or Semester Summer Is this Role for an Undergrad or Grad Student? Undergrad Anticipated Pay Range 17.50 Pay Range Information
Chapman University is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this position. This range takes into account a variety of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. Salary offers are determined based on the final candidate's qualifications and experience, as well as internal equity and other internal factors. The anticipated pay range is not a promise of a particular wage.
On which Campus will this work be done? Orange Approved Supervisor Tom Piechota Supervisor Email piechota@chapman.edu
Scheduling

Please use dates within Chapman Academic Calendar
(https://www.chapman.edu/academics/academic-calendar.aspx)

Desired Start Date 06/10/2026 Projected End Date 08/23/2026 Average number of hours per week Up to 10 Hrs
Position Summary Information
Job Description Summary
Conduct background research and field work for the City of Santa Ana cool pavement project .
Responsibilities
  • Take field measurements to measure the impact of Cool Pavement in the City of Santa Ana.
  • Compile and analyze data.
  • Present data as needed.
Required Qualifications
  • Familiarity with conducting take field measurements.
  • Ability to use tools to summarize research data.
  • Strong communications skills.
  • A team player who takes direction easily.
Desired Qualifications
Familiarity with data base management and programming.
Special Instructions to Applicants
Budget Information
Is Federal work-study required? With or Without FWS

What Chapman University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply