Contract Postdoctoral Psychology information
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$30.3K - $35.6K
3% of jobs
$48.1K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$46.3K - $51.6K
16% of jobs
$51.6K - $56.9K
13% of jobs
The median wage is $57.4K / yr.
$56.9K - $62.2K
17% of jobs
$65.1K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$62.2K - $67.5K
17% of jobs
$67.5K - $72.9K
13% of jobs
$72.9K - $78.2K
3% of jobs
$78.2K - $83.5K
1% of jobs
How much do contract postdoctoral psychology jobs pay per year?
As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract postdoctoral psychology in the United States is $59,022.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,000.00 and $66,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.
Contract postdoctoral psychologists are individuals who have earned a doctoral degree in psychology and are working in temporary, project-based, or fixed-term positions, rather than permanent or tenure-track roles. These positions typically involve conducting research, clinical work, or teaching under the supervision of a senior psychologist or faculty member. The contract nature of the job means employment is limited to a specific period, often one to three years, and may be funded by grants or specific projects. This role provides valuable experience and training that can help prepare candidates for future academic, research, or clinical positions. Contract postdoctoral psychologists may work in universities, research institutions, hospitals, or private organizations.
To thrive as a Contract Postdoctoral Psychologist, you generally need a doctoral degree in psychology, completion of a psychology internship, and eligibility for licensure or supervision. Familiarity with psychological assessment tools, research methodologies, and data analysis software such as SPSS or R is typically required. Strong skills in communication, ethical judgment, and adaptability help postdocs collaborate effectively with supervisors, clients, and research teams. These competencies ensure high-quality research, ethical clinical practice, and professional growth within academic or applied settings.
Contract postdoctoral psychologists often navigate challenges such as adapting quickly to new research environments, balancing multiple projects, and managing time effectively amidst teaching or clinical responsibilities. Limited contract durations can also create uncertainty about long-term career prospects. To manage these challenges, it's essential to build strong professional relationships within your team, seek mentorship, and actively communicate your goals with supervisors. Participating in professional development workshops and maintaining a clear timeline for research deliverables can also help ensure a successful postdoctoral experience.
What cities are hiring for Contract Postdoctoral Psychology jobs?
Cities with the most Contract Postdoctoral Psychology job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Postdoctoral Psychology jobs?
The most popular types of Postdoctoral Psychology jobs are:
What states have the most Contract Postdoctoral Psychology jobs?
States with the most job openings for Contract Postdoctoral Psychology jobs include:
