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Rand Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Term (Fixed Term) Overview RAND's Center on AI, Security, and Technology (CAST), part of the Global and Emerging Risks (GER) Division conducts cutting-edge research on transformative, high-impact ...

Term (Fixed Term) Overview RAND's Center on AI, Security, and Technology (CAST), part of the Global and Emerging Risks (GER) Division conducts cutting-edge research on transformative, high-impact ...

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How much do rand research jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for rand research in the United States is $22.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $23.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Rand researcher?

A Rand Researcher is a professional who conducts in-depth research and analysis for the RAND Corporation, a nonprofit think tank. They work on a variety of policy issues, such as health, education, security, and economics, providing evidence-based insights to inform decision-making. Rand Researchers often have advanced degrees and expertise in fields like social science, economics, public policy, or engineering. Their work involves designing studies, collecting and analyzing data, and publishing reports or policy recommendations.

What are Rand Research researchers?

Rand Research researchers are professionals who conduct studies and analysis in various fields such as policy, health, and education. They typically use research methods, data collection, and statistical tools to inform decision-making and develop evidence-based solutions.

What are some common challenges faced by researchers at Rand, and how can new hires prepare for them?

Researchers at RAND often work on complex, multidisciplinary projects that require balancing rigorous analysis with real-world policy applications. A common challenge is adapting to rapidly shifting project priorities and collaborating across diverse teams with varying expertise. New hires can prepare by developing strong project management skills, being proactive in communication, and remaining flexible in their research approach. Embracing a collaborative mindset and seeking mentorship within the organization can help ease the transition and foster professional growth.

What is the difference between Rand Research vs Data Analyst?

AspectRand ResearchData Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree, research methods trainingBachelor's degree in data science, statistics, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch firms, think tanks, academic settingsCorporate, finance, healthcare, or tech industries
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in research projects, policy analysisUsed in data interpretation, reporting, decision-making

Rand Research and Data Analysts both require strong analytical skills and relevant degrees. However, Rand Research focuses more on qualitative research and policy analysis, often within academic or research institutions. Data Analysts typically work with large datasets to generate actionable insights in various industries. While overlapping in skills, their primary functions and work environments differ.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Rand researcher?

To thrive as a RAND Researcher, you need strong analytical skills, advanced education in relevant fields (often a master's or PhD), and experience in quantitative and qualitative research methodologies. Familiarity with statistical software like Stata, R, or Python and experience with data analysis tools are commonly required. Exceptional written and verbal communication, critical thinking, and the ability to collaborate with interdisciplinary teams are key soft skills. These skills and qualities are crucial for producing impactful, high-quality research that informs policy and decision-making.
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Infographic showing various Rand Research job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,222 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Associate AI Security Resident

RAND

Boston, MA โ€ข On-site

Other

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Job Type:

Term (Fixed Term) Job Description

Overview

RAND's Center on AI, Security, and Technology (CAST), part of the Global and Emerging Risks (GER) Division conducts cutting-edge research on transformative, high-impact technologies-including artificial intelligence and biotechnology-to shape policies that protect global security and advance the public good.

Your work will address key questions related to securing AI systems, understanding their cyber capabilities, and examining their policy implications. You will be responsible for leading complex projects that span technical research, policy analysis, and infrastructure development. For example, you might lead projects to develop AI-specific threat models, build software tools for AI cyber capability evaluations, or identify critical areas for new security R&D. Your work will inform analysis delivered to senior government and industry leaders.

You will communicate the results of your work to both technical and non-technical audiences through quick-turnaround policy briefs and detailed written research products. A recent example of one of our research products is the Securing AI Model Weights report, which explored protecting frontier AI models from theft and misuse.

This position is structured as a three-year appointment with options to renew and explore opportunities for longer-term employment at RAND thereafter.

RAND's reputation for excellence is built on our commitment to high-quality, rigorous analysis and objectivity. As an Associate AI Security Resident, you'll maintain that excellence while engaging with some of the most pressing challenges of our time.

Qualifications

All research positions at RAND require excellent analytic skills; the ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing; the ability to work effectively as a member of a multi-disciplinary team; and a strong commitment to RAND's core values of quality and objectivity.

Required:

  • Technical experience in security engineering, software engineering, firmware engineering, hardware engineering, or related fields

  • Technical management experience, including leading cross-functional teams, managing project budgets, and mentoring and developing team members

  • Demonstrated ability to successfully lead complex projects to completion

  • Proficiency in Python, Java, C/C++, or other popular programming languages

  • Ability to develop rigorous and comprehensive threat models and identify potential system vulnerabilities

  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, tailored to technical and non-technical audiences

  • Ability to reason about policy options given different technical considerations

  • Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment

  • Fluency with MS Office suite

Preferred:

  • Graduate of the Computer Network Operations Development Program (CNODP), Remote Interactive Operator Training (RIOT), Future Operator Readiness Growth and Enrichment (FORGE), or equivalent experience

  • Experience with red team operations or offensive cyber capabilities development

  • Understanding of advanced persistent threat (APT) tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) and experience with defending against them

  • Ability to think creatively about offensive and/or defensive techniques and strategies, beyond compliance with existing regulations

  • Familiarity with U.S. cybersecurity agencies, authorities, and policy development processes

  • Experience working in or with government on cybersecurity policy

  • Experience with advising non-technical stakeholders on security topics

  • Familiarity with the AI/ML hardware stack (e.g., GPUs, TPUs, data center design)

  • Familiarity with the AI/ML software stack (e.g., CUDA, PyTorch, TensorFlow, Ray)

  • Experience working on AI research, ML model training, or model deployment

  • Experience with securing AI systems

Education Requirements

RAND is hiring multiple Visiting AI Security Residents at associate I and associate II levels of experience. Minimum education requirements at the associate I level include:

A BS in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Cybersecurity, Information Security, Information Technology, Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Physics, Applied Physics, Engineering Physics, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Engineering and Public Policy, Technology and Policy, National Security Policy, Policy Analysis, Political Science, International Relations, or similar AND 1 year AI-focused real-world experience is required.

OR

A Master's degree in the fields listed above is required.

Security Clearance

Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government clearance is preferred but not required.

Location

We are hiring for this position in San Francisco, CA, Washington, DC; Santa Monica, CA; Pittsburgh, PA; and Boston, MA. We offer a hybrid work arrangement, combining work from home and on-site options. Fully remote work within the US, along with US visa support, will also be considered.

Writing or Code Sample

Either a writing sample or a code sample is required for this position. This sample can use a recent, previously written paper or technical report (e.g., journal article, master's thesis or paper written for coursework, research project, technical analysis, briefings), or source code showing technical expertise in relevant domains.

Term

This position is a three-year term appointment with a possibility of renewal, alongside options for longer term employment.

Salary Range:

Visiting Technical Associate I = $90,400 - $134,400

Visiting Technical Associate II = $121,700 - $176,500

RAND considers a variety of factors when formulating an offer, including but not limited to, the specific role and associated responsibilities; a candidate's work experience, education/training, skills, expertise; and internal equity.Successful candidates will be offered employment in a specific title, as determined by the candidate's education and experience. The salary range includes base pay plus RAND's sabbatic pay (which provides additional compensation above base pay when vacation is taken). In addition, RAND provides strong benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, paid time-off and more.

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