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Entry Level Research Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Dewberry

Entry Level Site/Civil Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$82K - $85K/yr

May also conduct code research, write specifications, and obtain permitting Required Skills ... Our entry-level program comes together on a regular basis for professional development events and ...

Dewberry

Entry Level Site/Civil Engineer

Fairfax, VA

$82K - $85K/yr

May also conduct code research, write specifications, and obtain permitting * B.S. in Civil ... Our entry-level program comes together on a regular basis for professional development events and ...

Tecolote Research

Entry Level Analyst

Washington, DC · On-site

$55K - $75K/yr

Successful candidates will have excellent communication, quantitative, research, and analytical skills. Responsibilities Data Analytics * Analyze monthly Integrated Program Management Reports ...

Apogee Research

Algorithm Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

... research techniques to real-world problems. This is not an entry level position and real-world experience is required. While this role is not primarily a software development role, some software ...

PrideStaff

Entry level Tax Specialist

Sterling, VA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Research and resolve various tax notices. * Manage payroll tax accounting and unemployment tax rate ... Whether you're an entry-level worker or a senior executive, an HR Manager or a front line ...

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Entry Level Research information

What are some common challenges faced by entry level research professionals, and how can they overcome them?

Entry level research professionals often encounter challenges such as mastering new research methodologies, managing large amounts of data, and adapting to fast-paced project timelines. To overcome these, it's important to proactively seek guidance from more experienced team members, regularly communicate progress with supervisors, and take advantage of available training resources. Building strong organizational skills and being open to feedback will help you navigate complex tasks while developing your expertise within a collaborative team environment.

What is the difference between Entry Level Research vs Research Assistant?

AspectEntry Level ResearchResearch Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or bachelor's degreeBachelor's degree often preferred
Work EnvironmentAcademic, corporate, or market research settingsLaboratory, academic, or field research environments
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research firms, corporationsUniversities, labs, research institutions
Common Search & ComparisonEntry Level Research vs Research Assistant

Entry Level Research roles typically require a high school diploma or bachelor's degree and involve basic research tasks in various settings. Research Assistants usually have a similar educational background but may require additional skills or experience, often working under supervision in academic or laboratory environments. Both roles serve as entry points into research careers, with overlapping responsibilities but differing in specific work environments and expectations.

What is an entry level research job?

An entry level research job typically refers to a position designed for individuals who are new to the research field, often recent graduates or those with limited professional experience. These roles usually involve assisting with data collection, literature reviews, basic data analysis, and supporting more senior researchers on projects. Entry level research jobs are common in academic, scientific, and corporate environments and may include titles such as research assistant or junior researcher. These positions help build foundational skills and experience for a future career in research.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Researcher, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a relevant bachelor's degree in a field such as science or social sciences. Familiarity with research databases, statistical analysis software (like SPSS or Excel), and literature review tools is often required. Strong written and verbal communication, curiosity, and the ability to collaborate effectively are essential soft skills. These abilities enable researchers to collect accurate data, draw meaningful conclusions, and contribute to successful research projects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Research jobs in Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Research jobs in Washington, DC are:

Entry Level Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Research job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Research Associate - Entry Level

Institute for Defense Analyses

Alexandria, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

About IDA
The Institute for Defense Analyses (IDA) is a private, nonprofit corporation headquartered in Alexandria, Virginia, just outside Washington, DC. IDA's mission is to answer the most challenging U.S. security and science policy questions with objective analysis leveraging extraordinary scientific, technical, and analytic expertise. IDA operates three Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDC's).
Why Work for IDA?
We are seeking a Research Associate to support projects in both the Science, Systems and Sustainment Division (S3D, as the home division) and Science and Technology Policy Institute (STPI, as the secondary division). Researchers within IDA are self-starting scientists and engineers who advise Department of War (DoW), Department of Homeland Security, White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), and other agency officials and selected audiences on challenges of national and global significance. We provide independent analytical products to help solve problems facing senior executives and military officials across the Federal government. IDA scientists and engineers offer our sponsors insight into technology trends and the impact of emerging advances by bringing rigor to technology readiness assessments, science and technology ecosystem characterization including workforce analysis, and independent perspectives on technology risks and mitigation strategies. The Research Associate will facilitate data-driven decision-making by conducting research using methods such as statistical analysis, natural language processing, literature review, computer code development, or modeling and simulation. Strong problem-solving skills are critical, and duties will also include report writing, developing visualizations of data and research results, presenting results, and other project-related tasks as directed by research staff. Projects may cross the full domain of science and technology; therefore, applicants should be willing to regularly learn new topics that concern national security and science and technology policy.
Primary Responsibilities
  • Provide qualitative and quantitative analytic support to government sponsors (e.g., analysis of scientific research developments and progress in areas of interest to defense sponsors, analysis of policy and program data, analysis of scientific and industrial capabilities relevant to sponsor interests).
  • Assist in the preparation of documents (e.g., briefings and reports on the design, conduct, and findings of data analyses, graphs that clearly present findings from analyses)
  • Identify and prepare useful data sources for analysis to address questions of sponsor interest.

What Will You Need?
  • We are seeking a highly analytical person who is able to both collaborate on cutting-edge research projects within S3D and STPI while also conducting independent research in support of S3D's DoW and STPI's OSTP and other agency sponsors.
  • An ideal candidate will enthusiastically and proactively develop new data sources and analytical methodologies to help address complex and challenging research questions in a fast-paced environment.
  • Bachelors or Masters degree in physical sciences, engineering, computer science, or related fields as well as demonstrated analytical skills and the ability to conduct independent research.
  • Expertise in topics related to natural language processing, autonomous systems, robotics, AI, S&T policy, or researcher networks will be viewed as a plus. Experience in a research setting with natural language processing methods and related language-based machine learning or artificial intelligence tools is particularly desired.
  • Data analysis experience using Python, Matlab, R, or similar languages.
  • Ability to work within multidisciplinary teams.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Some travel may be required.
  • Successful completion of a background check is required.
  • U.S. citizenship is required.

Why work at IDA?
IDA, as a non-profit, is uniquely positioned to answer the most challenging U.S. security and science questions with objective and rigorous analysis leveraging extraordinary scientific, technical, and analytic expertise. This position is located in Alexandria, VA, just outside Washington, D.C.
IDA offers the following benefits and resources to their employees:
  • Comprehensive benefits including diverse health insurance options, generous 10% contribution to retirement, maternity/paternity leave, 20 days paid time off, and relocation reimbursement;
  • Mission-oriented work at a non-profit that supports and protects our warfighters; as a non-profit, IDA employees are eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSFL);
  • Professional development including tuition reimbursement, internal and external trainings, and funding for researcher-pitched projects and publications;
  • A culture of work-life balance, including flex time, partial telework, and limiting work communication to core business hours;
  • The opportunity to craft your own unique research portfolio of distinct value to the national security enterprise.
  • A brand-new facility located in Alexandria's high-tech corridor in Potomac Yard; amenities include a gym, cafeteria and close proximity to local dining and shopping; and
  • Easy access to Potomac Yard Metro stop and Potomac Yard DASH bus stop. Employer contributes $340/month (IRS max) to commuter benefits.

What are the next steps?
  • Complete the application and submit your resume.

The application process consists of three interviews.
  • A short screening call with HR;
  • A 30 min - 60 min screening call with researchers; and
  • A full day interview with various researchers and staff; includes giving an hour presentation on a research project.

Prior to the full day interview, you will be asked to provide:
  • Transcripts (unofficial accepted);
  • 3 letters of recommendation; and
  • A writing sample.

We support transparency, equity, and fairness in our compensation program and provide a reasonable estimate of the salary range based on data-driven market analysis for each position. While it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range, a reasonable estimate of the salary range for this role is $67,335 - $190,249 Individual salary within this range will be commensurate with the incumbent's experience, unique skills and qualifications, and other relevant factors.
U.S. Citizenship is required
Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance is required
IDA is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing a fair recruiting process and working environment free from discrimination. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. Click here to learn more about IDA's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

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