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Entry Level Cognitive Science Jobs in Berkeley, CA

Entry Level Cognitive Science information

See Berkeley, CA salary details

$12

$20

$33

How much do entry level cognitive science jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level cognitive science in Berkeley, CA is $20.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $20.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in an entry level cognitive science position?

To thrive in an Entry Level Cognitive Science role, a foundational understanding of cognitive processes, data analysis, and research methodologies is typically required—often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with statistical software (such as SPSS or R), programming languages (like Python), and basic experimental design tools is highly beneficial. Strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and teamwork skills help you excel in interdisciplinary environments. These competencies enable entry-level professionals to contribute meaningful insights and collaborate efficiently in projects related to human behavior and cognition.

What kind of jobs can I get with an entry level cognitive science degree?

Entry level cognitive science graduates can pursue roles such as research assistants, user experience (UX) designers, data analysts, or cognitive technologists. These positions often require skills in research methods, data analysis, programming, and understanding human behavior, and may involve working in tech companies, research labs, or healthcare settings.

What is an entry level cognitive science job?

An entry-level cognitive science job typically involves roles in research, user experience (UX) design, human-computer interaction, data analysis, or artificial intelligence. These positions require a foundational understanding of cognitive processes, psychology, neuroscience, and computer science to analyze human behavior and improve technology or decision-making. Common job titles include UX researcher, data analyst, human factors specialist, or research assistant. Employers look for candidates with skills in data analysis, programming, experimental design, and critical thinking. These roles provide hands-on experience applying cognitive science principles to real-world problems, often in tech, healthcare, or academic settings.

Is cognitive science a useful degree?

A degree in cognitive science can be useful for entry-level roles such as research assistant, data analyst, or user experience designer, as it provides skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, and understanding human behavior. Graduates often find opportunities in technology, healthcare, and academia, especially when combined with programming, statistics, or neuroscience knowledge. The degree offers a versatile foundation for careers in interdisciplinary fields related to human cognition and artificial intelligence.

What are the typical daily responsibilities for someone in an entry level cognitive science position?

As an entry-level cognitive science professional, your day-to-day tasks may include gathering and analyzing data, assisting in the design and execution of behavioral experiments, and interpreting research findings. You might also be responsible for preparing reports or presentations, collaborating with colleagues from psychology, neuroscience, computer science, or human-computer interaction teams, and staying up-to-date with current literature in your field. Many roles offer opportunities to participate in team meetings and contribute ideas for new projects, making it a dynamic and intellectually stimulating environment. This position is ideal for those who enjoy problem-solving and working at the intersection of multiple scientific disciplines.

Is entry level cognitive science in demand?

Entry level cognitive science positions are increasingly in demand as organizations seek professionals with skills in human behavior, data analysis, and interdisciplinary research. Job opportunities are available in fields such as technology, healthcare, and research institutions, often requiring knowledge of programming tools and experimental methods.
What cities near Berkeley, CA are hiring for Entry Level Cognitive Science jobs? Cities near Berkeley, CA with the most Entry Level Cognitive Science job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Cognitive Science job openings in Berkeley, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,463 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

$1.9K - $2.5K/wk

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


University Of California San Francisco rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

229th of 617 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Under general direction and upon receipt of licensed approved provider written referrals, the Entry Level
Physical Therapist plans and administers a full range of physical therapy services for patients with a variety
of physical and cognitive impairments and disabilities. Services include patient evaluations using physical
therapy tests and measurements, the establishment of therapeutic intervention goals and the development of
therapeutic intervention programs, and the implementation of therapeutic intervention plans utilizing physical
therapy interventions, modalities, and procedures. The Entry Level Physical Therapist demonstrates
practice competence managing patients in less acute care settings and/or patients with more straightforward
clinical presentations and may require mentoring or supervision when working in high acuity care settings (eg
ICU) and/or with patients with more complex clinical presentations.
The Entry Level Physical Therapist maintains all applicable patient records related to the delivery of patient
care services. While performing job duties, the Entry Level Physical Therapist may also supervise support
personnel including Physical Therapist Assistants and Rehabilitation Aides. The Entry Level Physical
Therapist seeks out opportunities for ongoing clinical education and professional development. As a member
of the clinical care team, the Entry Level Physical Therapist also participates in compliance, quality, safety,
and process improvement initiatives in the department, local care setting, and organization.
 

About UCSF

The University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) is a leading university dedicated to promoting health worldwide through advanced biomedical research, graduate-level education in the life sciences and health professions, and excellence in patient care. It is the only campus in the 10-campus UC system dedicated exclusively to the health sciences. We bring together the world's leading experts in nearly every area of health. We are home to five Nobel laureates who have advanced the understanding of cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, aging and stem cells.

Pride Values

UCSF is a diverse community made of people with many skills and talents. We seek candidates whose work experience or community service has prepared them to contribute to our commitment to professionalism, respect, integrity, diversity and excellence - also known as our PRIDE values.

In addition to our PRIDE values, UCSF is committed to equity - both in how we deliver care as well as our workforce. We are committed to building a broadly diverse community, nurturing a culture that is welcoming and supportive, and engaging diverse ideas for the provision of culturally competent education, discovery, and patient care. Additional information about UCSF is available here.

Join us to find a rewarding career contributing to improving healthcare worldwide.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of California 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, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.

Salary Information

The final salary and offer components are subject to additional approvals based on UC policy.

Your placement within the salary range is dependent on a number of factors including your work experience and internal equity within this position classification at UCSF. For positions that are represented by a labor union, placement within the salary range will be guided by the rules in the collective bargaining agreement.

To learn more about the benefits of working at UCSF, including total compensation, please visit: https://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/compensation-and-benefits/index.html

Required Qualifications

  • DPT Doctoral graduate degree.
  • Less than one year of licensed clinical practice experience.
  • Minimum one full-time clinical education experience in acute care hospital or acute rehabilitation setting.
  • Ability to communicate effectively in English, both orally and in writing.
  • Ability to recognize signs of distress.
  • Basic computer skills including work within Epic electronic medical record.
  • Possession of good interpersonal, time management, problem solving and self-initiation skills.
  • position requires flexibility to orient and work at all UCSF Medical Center locations.


Preferred Qualifications

  • Prior clinical experience in acute care hospitals and acute rehab/IRF patient care settings. 
  • Prior experience working on an interdisciplinary health provider team
     

LIVING PRIDE STANDARDS


Service Excellence
Demonstrates service excellence by following the Everyday PRIDE Guide with the UCSF Medical 
Center standards and expectations for communication and behavior. These standards and 
expectations convey specific behavior associated with the Medical Center's values: Professionalism, 
Respect, Integrity, Diversity and Excellence, and provide guidance on how we communicate with 
patients, visitors, faculty, staff, and students, virtually everyone, every day and with every encounter. 
These standards include, but are not limited to: personal appearance, acknowledging and greeting all 
patients and families, introductions using AIDET, managing up, service recovery, managing delays 
and expectations, phone standards, electronic communication, team work, cultural sensitivity and 
competency.
Uses effective communication skills with patients and staff; demonstrates proper telephone techniques 
and etiquette; acts as an escort to any patient or family member needing directions; shows sensitivity 
to differences of culture; demonstrates a positive and supportive manner in which patients / families/ 
colleagues perceive interactions as positive and supportive. Exhibits team work skills to positively 
acknowledge and recognize other colleagues, and uses personal experiences to model and teach 
Living PRIDE standards. 
Exhibits tact and professionalism in difficult situations according to PRIDE Values and Practices
Demonstrates an understanding of and adheres to privacy, confidentiality, and security policies and 
procedures related to Protected Health Information (PHI) or other sensitive and personal information.
Demonstrates an understanding of and adheres to safety and infection control policies and 
procedures.
Assumes accountability for improving quality metrics associated with department/unit and meeting 
organizational/departmental targets.


Work Environment
Keeps working areas neat, orderly and clutter-free, including the hallways. Adheres to cleaning 
processes and puts things back where they belong. Removes and reports broken equipment and 
furniture.
Picks up and disposes of any litter found throughout entire facility. 
Posts flyers and posters in designated areas only; does not post on walls, doors or windows.
Knows where the Environment of Care Manual is kept in department; corrects or reports unsafe 
conditions to the appropriate departments. 
Protects the physical environment and equipment from damage and theft.


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