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Entry Level Social Science Research Jobs in California

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Entry Level Social Science Research information

What is an entry level social science research job?

Entry level social science research jobs are positions designed for individuals beginning their careers in the field of social science research. These roles often involve assisting senior researchers with tasks such as data collection, literature reviews, survey administration, data entry, and preliminary data analysis. They provide opportunities to gain hands-on experience with research methodologies, project management, and report writing, while working in academic, government, or private sector organizations. Entry-level roles typically require at least a bachelor’s degree in a related social science discipline such as sociology, psychology, political science, or anthropology.

What types of projects and tasks can I expect to work on as an entry level social science researcher?

As an entry level social science researcher, you'll typically assist with data collection, literature reviews, and survey administration. You may also help analyze qualitative and quantitative data, prepare reports, and support senior researchers in drafting research proposals. Collaboration is common, so expect to work closely with team members from various backgrounds, including statisticians and subject matter experts. These tasks provide valuable learning opportunities and a strong foundation for advancing your research skills.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Social Science Researcher, you need a strong foundation in research methodology, data collection, and analytical thinking, often gained through a bachelor's degree in a social science field. Familiarity with statistical software such as SPSS, R, or NVivo and experience with survey platforms and data management systems are commonly required. Effective written and verbal communication, attention to detail, and strong organizational skills set exceptional researchers apart. These skills ensure accurate data analysis, clear reporting, and successful collaboration on research projects.

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

The most popular types of Social Science Research jobs in California are:

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Entry Level Social Science Research job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Research Specialist Cohen Center

Brandeis University

Brandeis, CA

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

The Cohen Center for Modern Jewish Studies (CMJS) at Brandeis University is seeking a research specialist to provide support for an interdisciplinary, forward-thinking team of researchers and scholars who conduct quantitative and qualitative studies of the American Jewish community. This is an entry-level position with room for growth.

You would be an excellent fit for this position if you have outstanding written and oral communication skills, are detail-oriented and a motivated team player, and if you love to learn new skills in a dynamic work environment. It is an excellent opportunity to explore the world of social science research and apply those skills to help understand the dynamics of the US Jewish community.

Located at Brandeis University, CMJS fosters a nurturing environment that prioritizes personal and professional growth. Intellectual exploration and creative thinking are encouraged along with taking advantage of the many benefits an elite liberal arts university has to offer, including graduate-level courses.

The hiring range for the position is $47.3k-$51.8k.

Key responsibilities:

  • Serve as the primary support contact during survey administration. Field emails and phone calls from organizations and survey respondents

  • Oversee the coding of qualitative survey data

  • Train and manage a team of part-time undergraduate research assistants who work on coding, follow-up calling, and other research support tasks

  • Manage data collection of online surveys

  • Assist in developing, programming, and testing survey instruments in Qualtrics

  • Assist with reports and presentations. Make charts, figures, and slides using Excel and PowerPoint

  • Work with the full research team on other tasks as needed

Other Responsibilities:

  • Schedule and conduct phone interviews with respondents

  • Potential travel opportunities to conduct observations

  • Conduct literature searches and write short summaries

Requirements:

  • Bachelor's degree, preferably in social sciences or related field

  • Highly organized and detail oriented

  • Strong team player

  • Outstanding written and verbal communication skills

  • Desire and ability to learn new skills quickly

  • Comfort with technology

  • Proficient in Microsoft Word and Excel

  • Familiarity with the US Jewish community

Preferred but not required:

  • Training in quantitative methods and statistics

  • Experience conducting telephone and/or in-person interviews

  • Data visualization skills

  • Knowledge of non-English languages including Hebrew, Russian, and/or Spanish.

Pay Range Disclosure

The University's pay ranges represent a good faith estimate of what Brandeis reasonably expects to pay for a position at the time of posting. The pay offered to a selected candidate during hiring will be based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience and education/training, internal peer equity, and applicable legal requirements.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Brandeis University is an equal opportunity employer which does not discriminate against any applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, ancestry, religious creed, gender identity and expression, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy, age, genetic information, disability, caste, military or veteran status or any other category protected by law (also known as membership in a "protected class").