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Entry Level Social Research Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

ICF

Research Associate, Social Marketing

Reston, VA · On-site

This entry-level position is ideal for someone who is starting a career in mixed methods (i.e ... social marketing efforts. As a Research Associate, you will: * Help develop recruitment and data ...

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Entry Level Social Research information

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$2.4K

$5.2K

$7.6K

How much do entry level social research jobs pay per month?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average monthly pay for entry level social research in Virginia is $5,244.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $2,975.00 and $7,433.33 per month, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level social research job?

Entry level social research jobs are positions designed for individuals who are new to the field of social research, often recent graduates or those with limited professional experience. These roles typically involve assisting with data collection, conducting surveys or interviews, analyzing data, and preparing reports under the supervision of more experienced researchers. The work often supports projects in areas such as public policy, market research, or academic studies. These positions provide foundational experience and skills that are essential for advancing in the social research field.

What types of projects does an entry level social researcher typically work on, and how do they contribute to larger research initiatives?

Entry level social researchers often support senior researchers by assisting with data collection, literature reviews, and preliminary data analysis for projects such as public opinion surveys, community needs assessments, or policy evaluations. They may also help with preparing reports and presentations, ensuring accuracy in data entry, and conducting interviews or focus groups under supervision. These tasks are crucial in providing foundational evidence and logistical support for larger studies, allowing new researchers to develop practical skills while gaining exposure to the full research process.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Social Researcher, you need strong analytical skills, basic knowledge of research methods, and a relevant degree such as sociology, psychology, or a related field. Familiarity with statistical software like SPSS or Excel, and experience with survey platforms or data collection tools, is typically expected. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective written and verbal communication are crucial soft skills that set candidates apart. These abilities ensure accurate data analysis, clear reporting, and effective contribution to research projects.

What is the difference between Entry Level Social Research vs Entry Level Market Research Analyst?

AspectEntry Level Social ResearchEntry Level Market Research Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's in social sciences, sociology, or related fieldsBachelor's in marketing, business, or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch institutions, government agencies, NGOsMarket research firms, corporations, consulting agencies
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in social sciences, policy analysis, academiaUsed in marketing, advertising, consumer insights
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Social Research and Entry Level Market Research Analyst roles share similarities in required education and work environment, but differ in industry focus. Social research emphasizes understanding societal issues, while market research concentrates on consumer behavior and market trends. Both roles are entry-level positions suited for recent graduates seeking careers in research and analysis.

What are the most commonly searched types of Social Research jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Social Research jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Social Research jobs in Virginia?

For Entry Level Social Research jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Social Research jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Social Research jobs in Virginia are:

Entry Level Social Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Social Research job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,937 per year, or $30.3 per hour.

Research Associate, Social Marketing

ICF International, Inc.

Reston, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Our strategic health communications and social marketing work tackles some of society's greatest challenges and drives audiences to make positive attitudinal and behavioral changes.
A growing research team needs a self-starter to support formative, process, and summative evaluations that guide the planning, implementation, and revision of national health communications and social marketing campaigns. This entry-level position is ideal for someone who is starting a career in mixed methods (i.e., qualitative and quantitative) research and likes to support multiple projects.
We seek to hire a Research Associate to support formative, process, and summative evaluations that guide the planning, implementation, and revision of national health communications and social marketing efforts.
As a Research Associate, you will:
  • Help develop recruitment and data collection materials (e.g., format surveys or interview guides).
  • Support sampling (e.g., search for sources in EBSCO, Google Scholar, and other portals; schedule individual or group interviews with potential participants; distribute survey invitations).
  • Assist with data collection (e.g., abstract information from the sources, take notes during individual or group discussions).
  • Enter data using software such as Microsoft Excel.
  • Support data analysis (e.g., code text using software such as NVivo or MaxQDA).
  • Assist with reporting (e.g., create and format tables and graphs using software such as Microsoft Excel, Power BI, Looker Studio or PowerPoint, manage reference lists using software such as EndNote).
  • Coordinate purchasing, subcontracting, and consulting requisitions by obtaining and comparing vendor and consultant quotes, establishing suitable justifications, developing or modifying forms, and processing payments.

As a Research Associate, you will have:
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in public health, the social sciences, marketing or a related field
  • 5+ years of experience in social science research or marketing analytics to include experience conducting qualitative and/or quantitative research, including research design, data collection, analysis, and interpretation

Professional Skills
  • Strong verbal and written communication, organizational, and administrative skills
  • Ability to prioritize, multi-task, and work under strict deadlines in a fast-paced environment
  • High level of attention to detail
  • High level of comfort with learning new skills and/or working with unfamiliar topic areas
  • Strong self-starting and self-motivation skills

Desired Qualifications
  • Master's degree in public health, social or behavioral sciences, marketing, or a related field
  • 2+ years of experience in social science research, market research, or marketing analytics
  • Knowledge of behavioral science or behavior change principles and their application to communications, programs, or interventions
  • Experience with human-centered design, Design Thinking, user-centered design, or similar approaches to understanding audience needs
  • Fluent in Spanish

Bot and Third-Party Applications
Please note that this application must be submitted directly by the applicant for consideration. Failure to do so may result in the application being excluded for consideration. Applicants needing an accommodation for disability or religious purposes in connection with the application process should contact Candidateaccommodation@icf.com for assistance.
Working at ICF
ICF is a global advisory and technology services provider, but we're not your typical consultants. We combine unmatched expertise with cutting-edge technology to help clients solve their most complex challenges, navigate change, and shape the future.
We can only solve the world's toughest challenges by building a workplace that allows everyone to thrive. We are an equal opportunity employer. Together, our employees are empowered to share their expertise and collaborate with others to achieve personal and professional goals. For more information, please read our EEO policy.
We will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Reasonable Accommodations are available, including, but not limited to, for disabled veterans, individuals with disabilities, and individuals with sincerely held religious beliefs, in all phases of the application and employment process. To request an accommodation, please email Candidateaccommodation@icf.com and we will be happy to assist. All information you provide will be kept confidential and will be used only to the extent required to provide needed reasonable accommodations.
Read more about workplace discrimination rights or our benefit offerings which are included in the Transparency in (Benefits) Coverage Act.
Candidate AI Usage Policy
At ICF, we are committed to ensuring a fair interview process for all candidates based on their own skills and knowledge. As part of this commitment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools to generate or assist with responses during interviews (whether in-person or virtual) is not permitted. This policy is in place to maintain the integrity and authenticity of the interview process.
However, we understand that some candidates may require accommodation that involves the use of AI. If such an accommodation is needed, candidates are instructed to contact us in advance at candidateaccommodation@icf.com. We are dedicated to providing the necessary support to ensure that all candidates have an equal opportunity to succeed.
Pay Range - There are multiple factors that are considered in determining final pay for a position, including, but not limited to, relevant work experience, skills, certifications and competencies that align to the specified role, geographic location, education and certifications as well as contract provisions regarding labor categories that are specific to the position.
The pay range for this position based on full-time employment is:
$61,232.00 - $104,094.00
Nationwide Remote Office (US99)

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