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Behavior Scientist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Vesync

Sr. Applied Behavioral Scientist

Tustin, CA · On-site

Convert the BCTTv1, COM-B framework, and relevant behavior change evidence into a practical ... PhD in Behavioral Science, Health Psychology, Behavioral Medicine, Data Science, Machine Learning ...

New

Vesync

Sr. Applied Behavioral Scientist

Tustin, CA

Convert the BCTTv1, COM-B framework, and relevant behavior change evidence into a practical ... PhD in Behavioral Science, Health Psychology, Behavioral Medicine, Data Science, Machine Learning ...

Vesync

Clinical Scientist

Tustin, CA · On-site

$130K/yr

We are seeking a Clinical Lead to join our growing US-based Behavioral Science team as the bridge between the behavioral science framework and clinical reality. Using BeSci frameworks, theory, and ...

New

Vesync

Clinical Scientist

Tustin, CA · On-site

$130K/yr

We are seeking a Clinical Lead to join our growing US-based Behavioral Science team as the bridge between the behavioral science framework and clinical reality. Using BeSci frameworks, theory, and ...

GoFundMe

Staff Data Scientist (Pricing)

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$179.50 - $269.50/hr

Model human behavior using economics and AI: Apply economic theory, behavioral science, and machine learning to understand donor decision-making, estimate elasticity, and predict responses to changes ...

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How much do behavior scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for behavior scientist in California is $38.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.46 and $41.97 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a behavior scientist?

Behavior scientists are professionals who study how people and animals behave, often focusing on the underlying psychological, social, and environmental factors that influence actions and decisions. They use research methods and data analysis to understand patterns in behavior and develop strategies to encourage positive changes. Behavior scientists work in various settings such as healthcare, education, business, and government, contributing to programs and policies that improve individual and societal outcomes.

What are some of the main challenges behavior scientists face when working with multidisciplinary teams?

Behavior Scientists often collaborate with professionals from fields like data science, design, public health, and engineering. A common challenge is effectively communicating complex behavioral theories and research findings to team members with different backgrounds. Bridging these knowledge gaps requires strong interpersonal skills and the ability to translate scientific concepts into actionable strategies. Additionally, aligning behavioral interventions with broader project goals and timelines can be demanding but also offers valuable opportunities for professional growth and impact.

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

To thrive as a Behavior Scientist, you need a solid background in psychology, behavioral analysis, and research methods, usually supported by an advanced degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R), data collection platforms, and IRB protocols is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, communication, and collaboration skills distinguish top performers in this role. These skills enable accurate study design, insightful data interpretation, and effective application of findings to influence behavior and inform policy.

What can you do with a behavior scientist degree?

A behavior scientist degree prepares individuals to analyze and modify human behavior through research, data analysis, and intervention strategies. Career options include roles in clinical settings, research institutions, healthcare organizations, and government agencies, often requiring skills in data collection, statistical tools, and behavioral theories.

What jobs do behavior scientists do?

Behavior scientists study human and animal behavior to understand and modify actions through research, data analysis, and intervention strategies. They often work in clinical, educational, or organizational settings, applying behavioral theories and tools like behavior assessments and reinforcement techniques. Their work may involve designing programs, conducting experiments, and collaborating with other professionals to improve outcomes.

What qualifications do you need to be a behavior scientist?

To become a behavior scientist, a bachelor's degree in psychology, behavioral science, or a related field is typically required, with many roles requiring a master's or doctoral degree. Relevant skills include data analysis, research methodology, and knowledge of behavioral theories, often complemented by experience with statistical software and certifications in behavioral analysis or research methods.

What are popular job titles related to Behavior Scientist jobs in California?

For Behavior Scientist jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Behavior Scientist jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Behavior Scientist jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Behavior Scientist jobs?

Cities in California with the most Behavior Scientist job openings:

Behavior Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Behavior Scientist job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,033 per year, or $38.5 per hour.

AI Research Scientist, Adaptive Behavior Systems

Toyota Research Institute

Los Altos, CA

$176K - $253K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

At Toyota Research Institute (TRI), we're on a mission to improve the quality of human life. We're developing new tools and capabilities to amplify the human experience. To lead this transformative shift in mobility, we've built a world-class team advancing the state of the art in AI, robotics, driving, and material sciences.


The Team 
 
TRI's Adaptive Behavior Systems Department within our Human-Centered AI (HCAI) Division aims to develop AI systems that can support behavior change, such as reducing carbon emissions. To do this, we are developing novel models of human behavior that integrate behavioral science, Human-Computer Interaction, and advanced machine learning.
 
The Opportunity
 
We are looking for an AI Research Scientist or Senior AI Scientist with expertise in large-scale foundational model training, fine-tuning, evaluation, and benchmarking. This role operates at the forefront of generative machine learning and human behavior modeling. Ideal candidates will bring a strong research track record, hands-on experimentation skills, and experience developing and deploying foundational models. This role sits at the intersection of social science and generative AI, building models that represent human beliefs, preferences, and cognition as they change over time. For an example of our early research in this vein, please see https://arxiv.org/abs/2403.20252.
Responsibilities
  • Conduct machine learning research that integrates behavioral science concepts to push the boundaries of knowledge and the state of the art in Human-Centered AI.
  • Develop and evaluate generative AI and machine learning methods for modeling and understanding human behavior.
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with researchers in multiple fields, as well as university partners.
  • Stay up to date on the state-of-the-art in machine learning theories, methods and tooling.
  • Collaborate with scientists in the Adaptive Behavioral Systems Department to shape our research program and to communicate research to Toyota stakeholders.
  • Publish research findings in academic journals and/or conferences.
  • Contribute to technology transfer of research insights and prototypes throughout Toyota.
Qualifications
  • PhD in computer science, machine learning, or a closely related field with 1-7 years of experience in machine learning research or related projects in an industry setting, particularly in areas related to LLM training or large-scale ML. Industry experience is a plus. 
  • A strong publication record in ML, NLP, deep learning, or related fields.
  • Awareness of current machine learning research and the ability to critically evaluate emerging techniques and literature.
  • Experience with LLM/MLLM pretraining, fine-tuning (e.g., SFT, RLHF) and agentic systems.
  • Proficiency in  Python and modern deep learning frameworks such as Pytorch or Tensorflow
  • Ability to work collaboratively across disciplines and functions.
  • Ability to balance multiple projects, including short-term and those that may span several years.
  • Strong project management skills and desire to work on cutting-edge open-ended research projects.
  • Demonstrated ability to independently identify research opportunities, formulate well-scoped problems, and lead research projects end-to-end.
  • Demonstrated ability to work autonomously while soliciting feedback.
  • Strong interpersonal skills. Great teammate.
Bonus Qualifications
  • Experience with one or more of the following areas: diffusion models, uncertainty modeling, reinforcement learning, and physiological signal processing.
  • Previous experience in human modeling (both cognitive and behavioral) with generative AI.
  • Experience with human-centered research (e.g. computational behavioral and social science, human-computer interaction, neuro-science).
Please add a link to Google Scholar to include a full list of publications when submitting your CV for this position.
 
The pay range for this position at commencement of employment is expected to be between $176,000 and $253,500/year for California-based roles. Base pay offered will depend on multiple individualized factors, including, but not limited to, a candidate's experience, skills, job-related knowledge, and market location. TRI offers a generous benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance, 401(k) eligibility, paid time off benefits (including vacation, sick time, and parental leave), and an annual cash bonus structure. Additional details regarding these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment.

Please reference this Candidate Privacy Notice to inform you of the categories of personal information that we collect from individuals who inquire about and/or apply to work for Toyota Research Institute, Inc. or its subsidiaries, including Toyota A.I. Ventures GP, L.P., and the purposes for which we use such personal information.
 
TRI is fueled by a diverse and inclusive community of people with unique backgrounds, education and life experiences. We are dedicated to fostering an innovative and collaborative environment by living the values that are an essential part of our culture. We believe diversity makes us stronger and are proud to provide Equal Employment Opportunity for all, without regard to an applicant's race, color, creed, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition, religion, marital status, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state or local laws.
 
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability. Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records for employment.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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