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Program Research Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Research Specialist

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$20 - $30.55/hr

Dr. Thoma's program of research examines mental and behavioral health among LGBTQ youth, with a focus on risk for suicidal behavior. The Research Specialist will primarily conduct data collection ...

$58K/yr

Develop group optimizer program for feeding multiple groups on dairy farms * Research and update as needed environmental prediction equations and inputs for crop, ration balancing, and nutrient ...

$58K/yr

Develop group optimizer program for feeding multiple groups on dairy farms * Research and update as needed environmental prediction equations and inputs for crop, ration balancing, and nutrient ...

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Program Research Specialist information

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How much do program research specialist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for program research specialist in the United States is $80,571.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,000.00 and $98,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Program Research Specialist, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and typically a degree in statistics, social sciences, or a related field. Familiarity with data analysis software such as SPSS, SAS, or Excel, and sometimes experience with survey platforms or database systems, is often required. Excellent written and verbal communication, critical thinking, and organization help you present findings and collaborate effectively. These skills ensure accurate research, insightful analysis, and meaningful contributions to program evaluation and development.

What is the difference between Program Research Specialist vs Program Analyst?

AspectProgram Research SpecialistProgram Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in research, social sciences, or related field; research experienceBachelor's degree in public administration, business, or related field; analytical skills
Work EnvironmentResearch settings, government agencies, non-profitsGovernment agencies, policy organizations, consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsageUsed for roles focused on data collection, research, and analysisUsed for roles involving program evaluation, policy analysis, and reporting

While both roles involve analysis and work within government or organizational settings, the Program Research Specialist primarily focuses on conducting research and data collection, whereas the Program Analyst emphasizes evaluating programs and developing reports. The roles often overlap but differ in their core functions and daily tasks.

What are Program Research Specialists?

Program Research Specialists are professionals who collect, analyze, and interpret data to support the development, implementation, and evaluation of programs within an organization. They design research methods, gather relevant information, and prepare reports to help inform decision-making and improve program effectiveness. Program Research Specialists often work closely with program managers and policy makers to ensure that initiatives are data-driven and aligned with organizational goals.

How does a Program Research Specialist typically collaborate with other departments within an organization?

Program Research Specialists frequently work cross-functionally, collaborating with teams such as program management, data analytics, and communications to gather and analyze data that supports organizational goals. They might partner with program managers to identify research needs, coordinate with data analysts to ensure accurate data interpretation, and share findings with stakeholders to inform decision-making. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as their insights often drive program improvements and strategic planning. This collaborative environment helps broaden their professional network and enhances opportunities for skill development.
What cities are hiring for Program Research Specialist jobs? Cities with the most Program Research Specialist job openings:
What states have the most Program Research Specialist jobs? States with the most job openings for Program Research Specialist jobs include:
Program Research Specialist 1 (NY HELPS)

Program Research Specialist 1 (NY HELPS)

New York State

Albany, NY

$66K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


New York State rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 179 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 50 rated states


Job description

Duties Description The Program Research Specialists 1 will assist in the analysis, evaluation, and reporting for operating programs and projects. They will work under the supervision of a Program Research Specialist 2 or Tax Policy Analyst 3 or other higher-level manager to perform the following duties: Participate in the creation of annual OTPA Study files for various taxes. These data files are used by internal and external customers for statistical analysis, and in the publication of agency data.

Perform various tasks associated with data collection, manipulation, analysis, and evaluation. Including developing working knowledge of data management tools such as SAS, SQL, Access and other tools. Learn and participate in data cleaning techniques and manage and review the work of other data collection staff actively engaged in cleaning OTPA study files.

Actively manage the review of tax forms for accuracy and data that OTPA would like captured for statistical analysis. Develop a working knowledge of COGNOS data cubes (a type of data mining software tool). Prepare tables, graphs, fact sheets, and written reports summarizing statistical results using a variety of analytical tools.

Participate in Department-wide initiatives and projects as needed and report progress, issues, and risks to supervisors. Communicate, both orally and in writing, with a variety of individuals and groups including program research staff and management officials. Adhere to the Department's time and attendance rules and regulations.

Perform other tasks as needed. Minimum Qualifications This title is part of the New York Hiring for Emergency Limited Placement Statewide Program (NY HELPS). For the duration of the NY HELPS Program, this title maybe filled via a non-competitive appointment, which means no examination is required but all candidates must meet the minimum qualifications of the title for which they apply.

Within a year of permanent appointment, it is expected employees hired under NY HELPS will have their non-competitive employment status converted to competitive status, without having to compete in an examination. Employees will then be afforded with all of the same rights and privileges of competitive class examination for which they are qualified. NON-COMPETITIVE MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Program Research Specialist 1: A bachelor's degree including or supplemented by nine semester credit hours in biostatistics, data analysis, data modeling, economics, econometrics, mathematics, research methods, or statistics and two years of professional research experience performing the collection, manipulation (e.g., data construction, merging data files, data cleaning, working with data files containing different levels of data) and evaluation of quantitative data directed toward review, analysis, and presentation related to program operations

Applicant's with less than the required specialized experience may be considered for a one (Program Research Specialist Trainee 1) or two-year traineeship (Program Research Specialist Trainee 2) if minimum qualifications are met. Program Research Specialist Trainee 1: A bachelor's degree or higher including or supplemented by nine semester credit hours in biostatistics, data analysis, or data modeling, economics, econometrics, mathematics, research methods, or statistics. Program Research Specialist Trainee 2: A bachelor's degree or higher including or supplemented by nine semester credit hours in biostatistics, data analysis, or data modeling, economics, econometrics, mathematics, research methods, or statistics, and one year of professional research experience performing the collection, manipulation (e.g., data construction, merging data files, data cleaning, working with data files containing different levels of data) and evaluation of quantitative data

Substitution: A master's degree or higher including or supplemented by nine semester credit hours in biostatistics, data analysis, data modeling, economics, econometrics, mathematics, research methods, or statistics may substitute for one year of experience. Unofficial transcript(s) or a foreign degree evaluation must be included with your application. Your transcript(s) or degree evaluation must show your name, the school's name, the degree type, the degree awarded and the date it was awarded.

It must also show detailed coursework. Foreign degrees must have an evaluation from one of the companies listed here: https://www.cs.ny.gov/jobseeker/degrees.cfm. Candidates may also be qualified for permanent competitive appointment if reachable from the appropriate Civil Service eligible list or eligible for reassignment or transfer in accordance with Civil Service Law

Additional Comments New York State is an equal opportunity employer. It's the policy of the state of New York to provide for and promote equal opportunity in employment, compensation, and other terms and conditions of employment without discrimination on the basis of age, race, color, religion, disability, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, or an arrest or criminal conviction record unless based on a bona fide occupational qualification or other exception. Any candidate selected for this position will be subject to a review of their tax return submissions by the New York State Department of Taxation & Finance.

Employment of a candidate is conditioned upon a finding by the New York State Department of Taxation & Finance that the candidate is in compliance with all local, state, and federal tax laws. In accordance with federal government requirements, the employment of any candidate selected for this position is conditioned upon successfully completing a background investigation including a criminal history record check (fingerprint check). Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.

Work hours and telecommuting will be discussed at the interview. Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.


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