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Entry Level Social Science Research Analyst Jobs in Virginia

$49K/yr

... logic, science, or subject-matter courses requiring substantial competence in college-level ... and social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge and skills that can ...

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Entry Level Social Science Research Analyst information

What does an entry level social science research analyst do?

An Entry Level Social Science Research Analyst assists in collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data related to human behavior, social trends, and public policies. They often support senior researchers by conducting literature reviews, preparing surveys, managing databases, and helping to write reports or academic papers. Their work helps organizations understand social issues, evaluate programs, and inform decision-making. This role is ideal for recent graduates who are detail-oriented, analytical, and interested in social research.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level social science research analyst?

To thrive as an Entry Level Social Science Research Analyst, you need a strong background in social science research methods, data analysis, and statistical reasoning, typically supported by a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with statistical software such as SPSS, R, or Stata and experience with survey platforms or qualitative analysis tools are commonly required. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective written and verbal communication skills help distinguish top performers in this role. These skills are vital for producing reliable insights, supporting evidence-based decisions, and clearly conveying research findings to diverse stakeholders.

What types of projects and tasks can an entry level social science research analyst expect to work on in their first year?

As an Entry Level Social Science Research Analyst, you can expect to support various stages of research projects, including data collection, literature reviews, and preliminary data analysis. You may help design surveys, conduct interviews, or assist with coding qualitative data. Typically, you'll work closely with more experienced analysts and project managers, gaining exposure to report writing and client presentations. Collaboration is common, especially when working on interdisciplinary teams or contributing to multiple ongoing studies at once.

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

AspectEntry Level Social Science Research AnalystResearch Assistant
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in social sciences or related fieldBachelor's degree often required; some roles may prefer coursework in research methods
Work EnvironmentResearch institutions, government agencies, NGOsUniversities, research labs, non-profits
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in social science research projects, policy analysisSupports research activities, data collection, literature review

Both roles involve research tasks, but the Entry Level Social Science Research Analyst typically has more responsibility for data analysis and reporting, while Research Assistants focus on supporting research activities. The analyst role often requires a deeper understanding of social science theories and methodologies, making it suitable for those seeking to advance in research careers.

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

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

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Social Science Research Analyst jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Social Science Research Analyst job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Social Science Research Analyst job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Operations Research Analyst

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

Fort Belvoir, VA • On-site

$125K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


U.S. Department Of Defense rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 539 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

See below for important information regarding this job.
Position may be filled at one of the following locations:
  • Fort Belvoir, VA: $143,913-$187,093
  • New Cumberland, PA: $143,913-$187,093
  • Philadelphia, PA: $138,595-$180,178
  • Richmond, VA: $131,385-$170,806
  • Columbus, OH: $131,245-$170,624
  • Battle Creek, MI: $125,776-$163,514
Qualifications:To qualify for an Operations Research Analyst, your resume and supporting documentation must support:
A. Basic Education Requirement: A Bachelor's Degree or higher in operations research OR at least 24 hours in a combination of operations research, mathematics, probability, statistics, mathematical logic, science, or subject matter courses requiring substantial competence in college-level mathematics or statistics. At least 3 of the 24 semester hours must have been in calculus.
NOTE: Courses acceptable for qualifying for operations research positions may have been taken in departments other than Operations Research, e.g., Engineering (usually Industrial Engineering), Science, Economics, Mathematics, Statistics, or Management Science. The following are illustrative of acceptable courses: optimization; mathematical modeling; queueing theory; engineering; physics (except descriptive or survey courses); econometrics; psychometrics; biometrics; experimental psychology; physical chemistry; industrial process analysis; managerial economics; computer science; measurement for management; mathematical models in social phenomena; and courses that involved application of operations research techniques and methodologies to problems of management, marketing, systems design, and other specialized fields; or other comparable quantitative analysis courses for which college-level mathematics or statistics is a prerequisite.
B. Specialized Experience: One year of specialized experience that equipped you with the particular competencies to successfully perform the duties of the position and is directly in or related to this position. To qualify at the GS-14 level, applicants must possess one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-13 level or equivalent under other pay systems in the Federal service, military, or private sector. Applicants must meet eligibility requirements including time-in-grade (General Schedule (GS) positions only), time-after-competitive appointment, minimum qualifications, and any other regulatory requirements by the cut-off/closing date of the announcement. Creditable specialized experience includes:
  • Mastery of research techniques to conduct and lead professional and highly technical work involved in the performance of operations research studies in support of related process area(s) and supply chains.
  • Performing complex studies spanning all BSM processes, specifically Financial Management, Order Fulfillment, Planning, Procurement, and Technical/Quality.
  • Conducting, organizing, leading, directing, and coordinating quantitative and qualitative studies and analyses which are highly technical in nature.

Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
Education:

Substitution of education may not be used in lieu of specialized experience for this grade level.
Are you using your education to satisfy the Basic Education requirement to qualify? You MUST provide transcripts or other documentation to support your educational claims. Unless otherwise stated: Unofficial transcripts are acceptable at time of application.

GRADUATE EDUCATION: One academic year of graduate education is considered to be the number of credits hours that your graduate school has determined to represent one academic year of full-time study. Such study may have been performed on a full-time or part-time basis. If you cannot obtain your graduate school's definition of one year of graduate study, 18 semester hours (or 27 quarter hours) should be considered as satisfying the requirement for one year of full-time graduate study.
FOREIGN EDUCATION: If you are using education completed in foreign colleges or universities to meet the qualification requirements, you must show that the education credentials have been evaluated by a private organization that specializes in interpretation of foreign education programs and such education has been deemed equivalent to that gained in an accredited U.S. education program; or full credit has been given for the courses at a U.S. accredited college or university.

Employment Type: OTHER

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