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Part Time Research Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Part Time Research Assistant information

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How much do part time research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for part time research assistant in California is $21.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $25.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To excel as a Part Time Research Assistant, you generally need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and foundational knowledge in the relevant academic field, often supported by current enrollment in or completion of a related degree program. Familiarity with data analysis software (such as SPSS, R, or Excel), online research databases, and proper citation methods is typically required. Strong organizational skills, effective communication, and the ability to work independently make someone stand out in this role. These competencies ensure accurate data collection, efficient collaboration with research teams, and timely completion of research projects.

What Does a Part-Time Research Assistant Do?

As a part-time research assistant, your job is to help study or investigate a specific topic. In this role, you may work with or select participants, collect data, verify the conduct of all participants in the study, and document all collected or submitted information. Research assistants usually work for a university or research institute and specialize in a particular field. For example, if you study the earth sciences, you may qualify for a job helping research a specific question of geology. Research assistants can also work in areas like polling, public interest research, consulting, think tanks, market research, or medical research.

What are part time research assistants?

Part time research assistants are individuals who support academic, scientific, or professional research projects on a part-time basis. They assist with tasks such as data collection, literature reviews, data analysis, and preparing reports or presentations. These positions are often held by students or individuals seeking flexible work schedules. Part time research assistants typically work under the supervision of a lead researcher or professor and contribute to advancing the goals of the research project.

How does a part-time research assistant typically balance independent tasks with team collaboration?

Part-time research assistants often split their time between working independently on assignments—such as data collection, literature reviews, or preparing reports—and collaborating with faculty, graduate students, or other research team members. Regular check-ins and meetings help coordinate efforts, clarify expectations, and ensure progress on shared project milestones. Flexibility and clear communication are essential, as schedules may need to accommodate both the assistant's availability and the team's needs. This balance offers valuable experience in both self-management and teamwork, which are highly regarded in research environments.

What is the difference between Part Time Research Assistant vs Part Time Data Analyst?

AspectPart Time Research AssistantPart Time Data Analyst
Required CredentialsTypically a relevant degree (e.g., Bachelor's or Master's in a related field)Often a degree in statistics, data science, or related fields
Work EnvironmentAcademic or research institutions, laboratoriesCorporate, consulting firms, or research companies
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research centers, non-profitsBusiness, healthcare, finance, technology
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research support roles, academic research jobsData analysis tasks, business insights roles

While both roles involve data handling and analysis, a Part Time Research Assistant typically supports academic or scientific research projects, focusing on data collection and literature review. In contrast, a Part Time Data Analyst often works in business settings, analyzing data to inform decision-making. The choice depends on your industry interest and desired work environment.

More about Part Time Research Assistant jobs
What are popular job titles related to Part Time Research Assistant jobs in California? For Part Time Research Assistant jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Part Time Research Assistant jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Part Time Research Assistant jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Part Time Research Assistant jobs? Cities in California with the most Part Time Research Assistant job openings:
Part Time Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Part Time Research Assistant job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,974 per year, or $21.6 per hour.
Research Assistant (Part Time)

Research Assistant (Part Time)

MKS2 Technologies

Monterey, CA

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 29 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.