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Government Research Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Harvard University

Research Assistant

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$53/hr

The John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University is one of 12 graduate and ... The Research Assistant will work directly with Professor Liebman on a variety of projects related ...

Harvard University

Research Assistant

Cambridge, MA

$21.25 - $29.25/hr

The John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University is one of 12 graduate and ... The Research Assistant will work directly with Professor Liebman on a variety of projects related ...

Donor Network West

Research Assistant

Bodega Bay, CA

$19.75/hr

POSITION SUMMARY The Research Assistant provides an opportunity for intern-level introductory ... government reporting and processed by Payroll. If selected, Donor Network West's Recruiting ...

Donor Network West

Research Assistant

Bodega Bay, CA

$19.75/hr

POSITION SUMMARY The Research Assistant provides an opportunity for intern-level introductory ... government reporting and processed by Payroll. If selected, Donor Network West's Recruiting ...

University of Guam

Research Assistant I

Mangilao, GU

The Research Assistant III will assist with research design, data collection and analysis, report ... Ability to communicate effectively with farmers, agribusiness owners, students, government agencies ...

Harvard Kennedy School

Research Assistant

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$21.25 - $29.25/hr

The Research Assistant will support Professor Liebman on various projects related to social and ... Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University is a public policy and public administration ...

Children's Minnesota

Research Assistant

Minneapolis, MN

$20 - $27.75/hr

Position Summary Research Assistant provides administrative support services for clinical research ... Government Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification. Children's Minnesota is proud to be an ...

Children's Minnesota

Research Assistant

Minneapolis, MN

$20 - $27.75/hr

Position Summary Research Assistant provides administrative support services for clinical research ... Government Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification. Children's Minnesota is proud to be an ...

Children's Minnesota

Research Assistant

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$20 - $27.75/hr

Position Summary Research Assistant provides administrative support services for clinical research ... Government Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification. Children's Minnesota is proud to be an ...

Childrens Health Care

Research Assistant

Minneapolis, MN

$20 - $27.75/hr

Position Summary Research Assistant provides administrative support services for clinical research ... Government Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification. Children's Minnesota is proud to be an ...

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Government Research Assistant information

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How much do government research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for government research assistant in the United States is $19.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Government Research Assistant vs University Research Assistant?

AspectGovernment Research AssistantUniversity Research Assistant
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in a relevant field; some roles may prefer or require a master's degreeUsually requires a bachelor's degree; advanced roles may need a master's or ongoing graduate studies
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, research labs, policy departmentsUniversities, academic labs, college campuses
Employer & IndustryGovernment sector, public research institutionsAcademic institutions, universities
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for research roles in government vs academic settingsOften compared for research support roles in universities

While both roles involve supporting research projects, Government Research Assistants typically work within government agencies focusing on policy, public health, or environmental studies, whereas University Research Assistants support academic research, often assisting professors and students in university labs. The choice depends on the preferred work environment and career goals in public service or academia.

What does a Government Research Assistant do?

A Government Research Assistant supports research projects within government agencies by collecting, analyzing, and organizing data relevant to public policy, programs, or legislative initiatives. They assist in preparing reports, conducting literature reviews, and ensuring data accuracy for senior researchers or policymakers. Their work helps inform decision-making and contributes to the development and evaluation of government policies and programs.

What are the typical challenges faced by a Government Research Assistant when working on multi-agency projects?

As a Government Research Assistant, collaborating on multi-agency projects often presents challenges such as coordinating data sharing, adhering to varying protocols, and managing competing priorities among stakeholders. Navigating differing organizational cultures and expectations requires strong communication and adaptability. Proactively clarifying roles, maintaining thorough documentation, and building relationships across teams can help ensure project goals are met efficiently and with high-quality results.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Government Research Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Government Research Assistant, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a relevant degree such as in political science, public policy, or a related field. Proficiency in data analysis software (like SPSS or Excel), familiarity with research databases, and sometimes government clearance are often required. Outstanding written and verbal communication, critical thinking, and the ability to work independently or in teams are valuable soft skills. These competencies ensure accurate, reliable research that informs critical government decisions and policy development.
What cities are hiring for Government Research Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Government Research Assistant job openings:
What states have the most Government Research Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Government Research Assistant jobs include:
Government Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Government Research Assistant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,200 per year, or $19.3 per hour.
Research Assistant (Part Time)

Research Assistant (Part Time)

MKS2 Technologies

Monterey, CA

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

MKS2 Technologies, LLC, an award-winning high growth small business, creates innovative and customer-centric technology solutions in the areas of Cyber Security, Instructional Design and Training, Software Engineering and IT Support Services to improve the security and well-being of our clients. Our commitment to excellence and our "Mission First" orientation has resulted in steady growth and an expanding client base across government agencies. We have employees nationwide and for the past three consecutive years were named one of the fastest growing Veteran-owned companies in the nation. Please take a moment to browse through our website and learn more about what it means to serve with MKS2.

Research Assistant – Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUV)

Location: Monterey, CA – Naval Postgraduate School (Onsite)
Position Title: Research Assistant / Engineering Research Scientist

Salary: $55,000-$60,000 Part Time 20 hours a week.

Position Overview

The Research Assistant – UUV supports the Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) Physics Department in conducting advanced experimental research on unmanned underwater vehicle technologies. This role contributes directly to Navy‑sponsored research by executing experiments, analyzing data, developing optimized designs, and producing high‑quality scientific documentation. The position requires hands‑on laboratory and field work, technical rigor, and the ability to operate independently in a government research environment.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

  • Conduct research studies evaluating UUV feasibility, performance characteristics, and system features
  • Execute experimental research in both laboratory and field environments
  • Perform data collection, data analysis, and interpretation of experimental results
  • Develop optimized designs, geometries, and engineering recommendations
  • Produce scientific reports, research documentation, and academic papers
  • Support UUV laboratory operations, equipment preparation, and field testing activities
  • Collaborate with faculty, researchers, and technical teams to refine methodologies and outputs
  • Ensure all research deliverables meet established quality, accuracy, and technical standards
  • Part‑time position: 20 hours a week.

Required Qualifications

Experience

  • Minimum 1 year of experience in STEM‑based experimental research
  • Minimum 1 year of experience with:
    • Computer‑Aided Design (CAD) and/or 3D printing
    • Designing and executing research experiments
    • Writing scientific reports, articles, or papers
  • Minimum 6 months of experience with:
  • Laboratory work involving Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs)
  • Field testing of UUV systems

Education

  • Master's degree in one of the following fields:
  • Physics
  • Applied Physics
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Electrical Engineering

Clearance / Eligibility

  • U.S. Citizenship required
  • Ability to work onsite in a government laboratory environment

Other Required Skills

  • Experience with SolidWorks or similar CAD tools
  • Strong experimental design and data analysis capabilities
  • Ability to operate independently within a non‑personal services environment
  • Strong technical writing, documentation, and analytical skills

Diversity creates a healthier atmosphere: MKS2 Technologies is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.