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Paid Research Assistant Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Program Manager, Domestic Policy Studies

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$122K - $131K/yr

Guide research assistants on AEI and department policy and address performance issues in a ... Benefits AEI offers generous benefits, including 18 days of paid leave (15 days of paid annual ...

Research Nurse

Bethesda, MD ยท On-site

$56/hr

... paid leave, health insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, life and disability insurance ... Collaborate with PIs to interpret research data for protocol team. * Assist investigators and ...

Research Nurse

Bethesda, MD ยท On-site

$56/hr

... paid leave, health insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, life and disability insurance ... Collaborate with PIs to interpret research data for protocol team. * Assist investigators and ...

... paid leave, health insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, life and disability insurance ... Collaborate with PIs to interpret research data for protocol team. Assist investigators and medical ...

Clinical Research Coordinator

Bethesda, MD

$26 - $34.50/hr

Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays * 401K match up to 5% * Educational Benefits for Career Growth ... Dependent Care Assistant Program (DCAP) * Transportation Reimbursement Account (TRN) Position ...

Clinical Research Coordinator

Bethesda, MD ยท On-site

$26 - $34.50/hr

Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays * 401K match up to 5% * Educational Benefits for Career Growth ... Dependent Care Assistant Program (DCAP) * Transportation Reimbursement Account (TRN) Position ...

Research Librarian

Washington, DC ยท On-site +1

$105K - $111K/yr

Participate in local and national professional development activities * Assist with various ... Paid sabbatical after 13 years of service * Tuition reimbursement * Commuter benefits * Retirement ...

Clinical Research Coordinator

Bethesda, MD ยท On-site

$26 - $34.50/hr

... paid leave, health insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, life and disability insurance ... Monitors subject's progress and reports adverse events. - Assist staff writing progress reports and ...

Floater

Alexandria, VA ยท On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Research & assist patients with questions regarding balances including collecting applicable ... Paid time off * Discounts at local fitness clubs * Discounts at AT&T Additionally, Gastro Health ...

Floater

Alexandria, VA ยท On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Research & assist patients with questions regarding balances including collecting applicable ... Paid time off * Discounts at local fitness clubs * Discounts at AT&T Additionally, Gastro Health ...

Floater

Alexandria, VA ยท On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Research & assist patients with questions regarding balances including collecting applicable ... Paid time off * Discounts at local fitness clubs * Discounts at AT&T Additionally, Gastro Health ...

Clinical Research Coordinator

Bethesda, MD

$26 - $34.50/hr

... paid leave, health insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, life and disability insurance ... Monitors subject's progress and reports adverse events. - Assist staff writing progress reports and ...

Research Analyst III

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

... * Assist with testing, validation, user acceptance testing (UAT), and implementation of software ... Paid Parental Leave Physical Requirements: Work may involve sitting or standing for extended ...

... * Assist with testing, validation, user acceptance testing (UAT), and implementation of software ... Paid Parental Leave Physical Requirements: Work may involve sitting or standing for extended ...

Research Analyst III

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

... * Assist with testing, validation, user acceptance testing (UAT), and implementation of software ... Paid Parental Leave Physical Requirements: Work may involve sitting or standing for extended ...

Research Analyst III

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

... * Assist with testing, validation, user acceptance testing (UAT), and implementation of software ... Paid Parental Leave Physical Requirements: Work may involve sitting or standing for extended ...

Clinical Research Coordinator

Bethesda, MD ยท On-site

$65K - $108K/yr

Coordinate multiple clinical research studies simultaneously. * Assist with onboarding activities ... Personal and Family Sick Time & Company Paid Holidays * Parental Leave * 401(k) Retirement Plan

Coordinate multiple clinical research studies simultaneously. * Assist with onboarding activities ... Personal and Family Sick Time & Company Paid Holidays * Parental Leave * 401(k) Retirement Plan

Showing results 41-60

Paid Research Assistant information

See Reston, VA salary details

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How much do paid research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for paid research assistant in Reston, VA is $22.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.28 and $26.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a paid research assistant?

Paid Research Assistants are individuals, often students or early-career professionals, who are hired by universities, research institutions, or private organizations to support academic or scientific research projects. Their duties may include collecting and analyzing data, conducting experiments, performing literature reviews, and assisting with the preparation of reports and publications. Paid Research Assistants typically work under the supervision of a lead researcher or principal investigator and receive hourly wages or a stipend for their work. This role provides valuable hands-on experience in research methodologies and can be a stepping stone to advanced study or careers in research and academia.

What does a paid research assistant do?

As a Paid Research Assistant, your daily tasks often include collecting and analyzing data, conducting literature reviews, preparing research materials, and assisting with experiments or surveys. You may also help with administrative duties such as scheduling, organizing files, and maintaining research databases. Collaboration is key in this role, as you'll regularly communicate with principal investigators, graduate students, and other team members to ensure research objectives are met efficiently. This position provides hands-on experience in research methodologies and offers valuable opportunities to develop skills that are beneficial for future academic or professional pursuits.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a paid research assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Paid Research Assistant, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a background in the relevant academic field, often supported by a bachelor's degree or equivalent coursework. Familiarity with data analysis software (such as SPSS, R, or Excel), literature databases, and sometimes IRB protocols is typically required. Excellent communication, time management, and organizational skills help you collaborate effectively and manage multiple research tasks. These abilities ensure accurate data collection, reliable research outcomes, and efficient support for lead researchers.

What is the difference between Paid Research Assistant vs Research Associate?

AspectPaid Research AssistantResearch Associate
Required CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree or current student statusOften requires a master's degree or higher in a related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratory, academic, or field research settingsResearch labs, universities, or industry research teams
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutions, government agenciesAcademic institutions, private companies, government agencies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level research roles and responsibilitiesExploring advanced research roles and career progression

Paid Research Assistants typically support research projects at an entry level, often requiring a bachelor's degree or current student status. Research Associates usually hold higher qualifications like a master's degree and are involved in more independent research tasks. Both roles are common in academic and research settings, but Research Associates generally have more experience and responsibilities.

Are research assistant positions paid?

Research assistant positions are typically paid roles that offer hourly wages or stipends, especially in academic or research settings. Compensation varies depending on the institution, project funding, and level of experience, and some positions may also provide academic credit or stipends for graduate students.

Do paid research assistants get paid a lot?

Paid research assistants typically earn hourly wages that vary depending on the field, experience, and location, with many positions paying between minimum wage and $20 per hour. Higher salaries are often associated with advanced skills, specialized knowledge, or working in competitive research environments. Overall, research assistant pay is generally considered moderate and not usually classified as high-paying compared to other professional roles.

How much does a paid research assistant get paid?

Paid research assistants typically earn between $12 and $25 per hour, depending on their experience, education level, and the complexity of the research tasks. Some positions may offer stipends or fixed project-based payments, especially in academic or nonprofit settings.

How to become a paid research assistant?

To become a paid research assistant, typically you need to have relevant academic background or skills in the research area, such as a degree or coursework in the field. Applying for positions through university departments, research institutions, or online job boards is common, and strong organizational and communication skills are often required. Some roles may also require familiarity with research tools or data analysis software.

What are popular job titles related to Paid Research Assistant jobs in Reston, VA?

For Paid Research Assistant jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Paid Research Assistant jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Paid Research Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Paid Research Assistant job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,410 per year, or $22.8 per hour.

Program Manager, Domestic Policy Studies

AEI

Washington, DC โ€ข On-site

$122K - $131K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Overview
The American Enterprise Institute (AEI) seeks a full-time, in-person program manager for its Domestic Policy Studies program, which houses education policy, AEI's Housing Center, the Center on Opportunity and Social Mobility, and the Center for Technology, Science, and Energy. The anticipated start date for this position is as soon as possible.
AEI's domestic policy work advances policies to encourage upward mobility, develop the workforce, strengthen America's educational system, provide transparent reports on housing market trends, promote technological innovation, and grow social capital. Reporting to the program's director, the program manager will work closely with AEI's Domestic Policy scholars and the program's director to manage the department's daily activities.
The ideal candidate for this position will have an outstanding academic record and two to five years' experience working in a nonprofit, academic, or domestic policy environment, with extensive project-management capabilities and excellent writing, research, and communications skills. The candidate should have a demonstrated interest in a wide range of policy topics and a strong grasp of federal institutions and current events.
This role comes with a high level of responsibility. The program manager is expected to manage, advise on, and execute high-priority projects and manage department-wide personnel with varying research, administrative, and operational responsibilities.
AEI offers a stimulating work environment, competitive compensation, and excellent benefits. Applicants should submit an online application complete with a resume, a cover letter demonstrating interest in our policy areas, transcripts, and a writing sample.
Responsibilities
  • Personnel Management:
    • Manage department staff including scholars, research assistants, and interns.
    • Onboard and offboard department research assistants, full-time scholars, and contracted (1099) scholars.
    • Implement and maintain workflow systems internally and cross-departmentally.
    • Guide research assistants on AEI and department policy and address performance issues in a professional manner.
    • Foster a supportive learning environment and guide research assistants on research strategies and career development.
    • Develop and update research assistant job descriptions.
    • Assign research assistants to scholars.
  • Budget Management:
    • Develop and monitor the annual non-personnel budget.
    • Manage department subscriptions, purchases, and renewals.
    • Manage department expense approvals.
    • Manage grant submissions and approvals.
  • Administration:
    • Provide scholars with the necessary resources to conceptualize and execute original research and writing and private and public conferences.
    • Manage schedules for individuals and the department.
    • Ensure staff install and maintain proper software.
    • Manage the shared department folder for recordkeeping and organization.
    • Collect and coordinate travel information.
  • Communications:
    • Develop and streamline efficient reporting mechanisms.
    • Serve as a liaison among departments.
    • Oversee communications for promotional efforts.
  • Development:
    • Manage the department's grant portfolio, ensuring timely completion of project deliverables.
  • Miscellaneous:
    • Manage special projects as assigned (including major conferences and events, special reports, edited volumes published by AEI, and digital projects hosted on AEI's website).

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions at AEI
  • The employee is regularly expected to stand, sit, talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer, telephone, and keyboard. This job requires close-up vision for computer work.
  • The employee must be able to lift up to 30 pounds.
  • The employee must be able to work in a confined area.
  • Moderate noise (e.g., from computers, phones, printers, and light traffic) is expected.
  • Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential responsibilities associated with this position.

Qualifications
  • A bachelor's degree is required.
  • Candidates should have two to five years of previous applicable full-time work experience, preferably in research, management, or politics; one or more years of experience at AEI is preferred.
  • The ability to establish and maintain collaborative relationships within and among departments.
  • Supervisory and leadership skills.
  • The ability to work in a high-pressure and fast-paced environment.
  • Attention to detail and excellent organizational skills.
  • Time management skills and a proven ability to meet deadlines.
  • A self-starting attitude and the ability to identify complex problems, review related information, develop and evaluate options, and implement solutions.

Benefits
AEI offers generous benefits, including 18 days of paid leave (15 days of paid annual leave and three personal or floating holidays); 12 days of paid sick leave; paid family leave; medical and dental coverage, in addition to a health savings account; medical and dependent care flexible spending accounts; a tuition assistance program of up to $5,200; life and disability insurance at no cost to employees; and a 403(b) retirement plan with a contribution from AEI, among other benefits. For more information, you can see a full summary of our benefits at https://www.aei.org/jobs/benefits/.
Compensation is based on a number of factors, including but not limited to the scope and responsibilities of the position; a candidate's full-time, applicable work experience; key skills and qualifications; and internal and external market considerations. The salary range for this full-time, exempt position is $60,000-$75,000+. Salary is just one component of AEI's total compensation package for employees.