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Cognitive Science Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Varsity Tutors

Linguistics Tutor

Portland, OR · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... including cognitive science and education. * Effective Teaching Methods: Ability to identify concepts students commonly struggle with, explain material using multiple approaches, and adapt ...

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Cognitive Science information

See Portland, OR salary details

$24.9K

$60.9K

$81.1K

How much do cognitive science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for cognitive science in Portland, OR is $60,887.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,900.00 and $65,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cognitive science job?

A Cognitive Science job involves applying knowledge from psychology, neuroscience, artificial intelligence, philosophy, and linguistics to understand how humans and machines think, learn, and process information. Professionals in this field work in diverse industries, including technology, healthcare, research, and user experience design. Common roles include data scientist, UX researcher, AI specialist, and cognitive psychologist. These jobs often require analytical thinking, programming skills, and expertise in human behavior or machine learning.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a cognitive science position?

To thrive in a Cognitive Science role, you need a solid grounding in psychology, neuroscience, computer science, linguistics, and data analysis, usually supported by at least a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field. Familiarity with statistical analysis software (such as SPSS or R), programming languages (like Python or MATLAB), and research tools is highly advantageous. Outstanding collaboration, critical thinking, and clear communication skills set top candidates apart in multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualifications enable professionals to analyze complex cognitive processes and contribute innovative solutions to real-world human-computer interaction, AI, or behavioral research challenges.

What are the typical career progression opportunities for someone in a cognitive science role?

Professionals in cognitive science often start in research assistant, data analyst, or user experience roles and can progress to positions such as lead researcher, UX researcher, cognitive engineer, or even project manager depending on their interests and expertise. With experience and additional qualifications, some transition into roles in artificial intelligence, human-computer interaction, neurotechnology, or higher education as professors or principal investigators. Opportunities for advancement are often influenced by your ability to publish research, collaborate across disciplines, and acquire advanced degrees or certifications. Many cognitive science professionals also find pathways into related industries including technology, healthcare, and education, allowing for diverse and rewarding career trajectories.

Is cognitive science a useful degree?

Cognitive science is a versatile degree that prepares graduates for careers in research, technology, healthcare, and user experience design by combining psychology, neuroscience, computer science, and linguistics. It develops skills in critical thinking, data analysis, and problem-solving, which are valuable across many industries. Job opportunities often require interdisciplinary knowledge and may benefit from programming skills or familiarity with AI tools.

Is cognitive science in demand?

Cognitive science is a growing interdisciplinary field with increasing demand in areas such as artificial intelligence, human-computer interaction, and user experience design. Professionals with skills in data analysis, programming, and understanding of cognitive processes are sought after in research, technology, and healthcare sectors.

What does a cognitive scientist do?

A cognitive scientist studies mental processes such as perception, memory, language, and decision-making by analyzing how the brain and mind work. They often conduct experiments, develop models, and use tools like neuroimaging to understand human cognition, working in research, academia, or applied settings. Strong analytical skills and knowledge of psychology, neuroscience, and computer science are essential for this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cognitive Science jobs in Portland, OR?

The most popular types of Cognitive Science jobs in Portland, OR are:

What are popular job titles related to Cognitive Science jobs in Portland, OR?

For Cognitive Science jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cognitive Science jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Cognitive Science jobs in Portland, OR are:

Cognitive Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cognitive Science job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,887 per year, or $29.3 per hour.

Cognitive Performance Specialist

Modern Government Solutions

Portland, OR • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

TITLE: Cognitive Performance Specialist (CPS)

LOCATION: Portland, OR

CLEARANCE REQUIRED: Secret

EMPLOYMENT TYPE: Full-Time Salary

TRAVEL: 10%

This position is contingent upon contract award.

POSITION SUMMARY

MGS is seeking a Cognitive Performance Specialist (CPS) to join an elite Human Performance Program (HPP) supporting the 125th Special Tactics Squadron (STS) in Portland, OR. In this role, you will work directly with Special Operations Forces operators to design and deliver mental health and performance psychology programs that strengthen readiness, psychological resilience, and mission capability, providing consultation, training, and crisis support that has a meaningful, lasting impact on those who serve our nation's mission.

RESPONSIBILITIES (not limited to):

  • Design and deliver individualized and unit-level programs targeting operator readiness, psychological resilience, and mission capability using cognitive and behavioral strategies.
  • Provide private consultation with squadron members on goal setting and performance planning, and meet regularly with unit leadership to advise on performance, resilience, and organizational effectiveness.
  • Administer and interpret psychological assessments including baseline and post-event screening; maintain a documented crisis response plan and coordinate referrals for members in crisis.
  • Serve as liaison with HPP staff, medical personnel, and the AFSPECWAR HPP enterprise; consult with medical, legal, and military command personnel as appropriate.
  • Maintain physical proficiency to operate alongside SOF in austere environments, including hiking rough terrain and lifting loads up to 20 kilograms.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS

  • Must possess an active Secret security clearance.
  • Must possess and maintain a license or certification consistent with education and training, and membership in a relevant professional organization (e.g., AASP, APA Division 47/19).
  • Must possess current Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS) certification.
  • Master's degree (doctorate preferred) in Performance Psychology, Psychology, Cognitive Science, or a related mental health discipline.
  • 3+ years of experience working with individuals or groups of elite athletes at the NCAA Division I Collegiate, Olympic, professional sports, and/or Special Operations/AFSPECWAR military member level.
  • Experience working within a multidisciplinary human performance or healthcare team.
  • Training in clinical/counseling psychology, including suicide intervention, PTSD, and substance abuse.

PREFERRED SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS

  • Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC) from the Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP).
  • Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), Licensed Psychologist, or Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW).
  • BCIA certification in heart rate variability (HRV) biofeedback, or related cognitive enhancement certification as required by the hiring unit.

*Applicants selected will be United States citizens and may be subject to a government security investigation for access to classified information.*

ABOUT US

At MGS, we believe a people-first culture corresponds to organizational success through a commitment to excellence, integrity, inclusion, and an attitude that welcomes challenges meets demands, sustains growth, and drives innovation. We provide expert mission-first technical and programmatic services and solutions for the US intelligence community, the US Department of Defense, and other governmental agencies. We create people-first organizational cultures where employees feel needed in the system, not a system that needs employees. We provide you with long-term career opportunities centrally focused on our core value system: inclusion, integrity, and a commitment to excellence.

MGS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status, and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

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