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Research Associate Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Polco

Survey Research Associate

Madison, WI · On-site +1

$50K - $60K/yr

Survey Research Associate The Survey Research Associate position leads the planning, coordination, and execution of survey initiatives conducted on behalf of local governments. This role oversees the ...

Wisconsin

Research Administration Director

Madison, WI · On-site

$130K/yr

Reporting directly to the Associate Dean for Research (ADR), this position provides leadership and oversight for all pre-award and post-award research administration activities, ensuring the ...

New

Tetra Tech, Inc.

Research Interviewer

Madison, WI · On-site

$20/hr

The position is dedicated to research interviewing and survey data collection, with no sales ... Our reputation rests on the technical expertise and dedication of our employees-21,000 associates ...

Tetra Tech

Research Interviewer

Madison, WI · Remote

$20/hr

The position is dedicated to research interviewing and survey data collection, with no sales ... Our reputation rests on the technical expertise and dedication of our employees-21,000 associates ...

Wisconsin

Department Research Administrator

Madison, WI

$75K/yr

Multi-functional Research Administration Manager Job Summary: We are seeking a Department Research ... Associate's degree required, Bachelor's degree preferred. How to Apply: Please go to the "Apply Now ...

Cynet Systems

Clinical Research Nurse

Madison, WI · On-site

Clinical Research Nurse Perform clinical assessments including blood pressure, venipuncture, weight ... Associate or Bachelor's degree in Nursing with current state licensure. CPR/AED certification. ACLS ...

Wisconsin

Research Specialist

Madison, WI

$50K/yr

Research Specialist Job Summary: Within WiSOR, Dr. Schwarze is hiring a Research Specialist to coordinate both NIH, and non-NIH funded studies focused on clinician-patient communication and serious ...

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All JobsResearch Associate JobsResearch Associate Jobs in Madison, WI

Research Associate information

See Madison, WI salary details

$16

$32

$47

How much do research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for research associate in Madison, WI is $32.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.39 and $37.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Research Associate, you need a strong background in research methodology, data analysis, and subject-specific knowledge, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with statistical software (such as SPSS, R, or Python), laboratory equipment, and research databases is often essential. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and clear written and verbal communication skills set outstanding Research Associates apart. These skills ensure accurate data collection, effective collaboration, and the production of reliable, impactful research outcomes.

What is a research associate?

Research Associates are professionals who support research projects in academic, scientific, or business settings. They assist with designing studies, collecting and analyzing data, and preparing reports or publications. Research Associates often work under the supervision of principal investigators or senior researchers, contributing their expertise to advance the goals of the project. Their responsibilities can vary depending on the field, but typically involve both administrative and hands-on research tasks.

How much does a research associate earn?

Research associates typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $40,000 to $60,000, depending on experience, education, and industry. Salaries can vary based on location, specialization, and the organization’s size, with some roles offering additional benefits such as research funding or professional development opportunities.

What does a research associate do?

As a research associate, you conduct research and analysis as directed by a senior researcher or project manager. Researchers work in a number of fields, including medical science, the social sciences, natural sciences, finance, management, and academia. Your specific duties and responsibilities differ depending on the field in which you work, but some features of your work are similar across industries. You typically do primary and secondary source research, organize and process data, analyze said data, and report on your findings to lead researchers or clinicians.

What are some typical challenges a research associate might face when managing multiple research projects simultaneously?

As a Research Associate, juggling multiple projects often requires strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize tasks effectively. You might encounter challenges such as balancing deadlines, coordinating with various team members, and adapting to shifting project goals or data requirements. Effective communication and proactive time management are essential to ensure each project progresses smoothly and meets its milestones. Many teams use project management tools and regular check-ins to help mitigate these challenges and support collaboration.

What is the difference between Research Associate vs Research Scientist?

AspectResearch AssociateResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's degree in relevant fieldMaster's or PhD in relevant field
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research institutions, universitiesLaboratories, research institutions, industry settings
Employer & Industry UsageAcademic, government, non-profitAcademic, industry, biotech, pharma
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Research Associate and a Research Scientist lies in their educational requirements and level of experience. Research Associates typically hold a bachelor's or master's degree and assist in research projects, while Research Scientists usually have a PhD and lead research efforts. Both roles work in similar environments like labs and research institutions, but Research Scientists often have more independence and responsibility.

Is a research associate a good career?

A research associate role is a valuable entry-level position in academia, industry, or government, involving data collection, analysis, and reporting. It offers opportunities to develop research skills, collaborate with professionals, and advance to higher-level positions with experience and additional qualifications.
More about Research Associate jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Research jobs in Madison, WI? The most popular types of Research jobs in Madison, WI are:
What are popular job titles related to Research Associate jobs in Madison, WI? For Research Associate jobs in Madison, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Research Associate jobs in Madison, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Research Associate jobs in Madison, WI are:
What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Research Associate jobs? Cities near Madison, WI with the most Research Associate job openings:
Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Associate job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 85% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,202 per year, or $32.8 per hour.

Survey Research Associate

Polco

Madison, WI • On-site, Remote

$50K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Survey Research Associate

The Survey Research Associate position leads the planning, coordination, and execution of survey initiatives conducted on behalf of local governments. This role oversees the full lifecycle of benchmark surveys, including project onboarding and setup, data collection, analysis coordination, and reporting. Working closely with city administrators, department leaders, and communication experts, Survey Research Associates ensure that surveys are aligned with municipal goals, meet high methodological standards, and are delivered on time and within budget.

The role requires strong organizational skills, knowledge of survey research methods, and the ability to translate data into clear, actionable insights for public sector decision-makers. The Survey Research Associate serves as the primary point of contact for municipal clients and ensures that survey findings meaningfully inform policy, service improvements, and community engagement efforts.

During your first few months, your responsibilities will include:

  • Shadowing and assisting Survey Research (SR) Team members in all aspects of our survey processes including survey creation, programming, sampling, creating outreach materials, finalizing reports for clients, and performing quality assurance checks
  • Learning to promptly respond to client questions, resolve technical issues and requests for information, and manage engagement and outreach efforts
  • Supporting colleagues and clients through the lifecycle of their survey projects
  • Understanding and conveying the value of Polco and our benchmark survey products to our clients
  • Using various mediums of communication to troubleshoot and solve problems as they arise

With training, your responsibilities will evolve to include:

  • Own a portfolio of up to 15 concurrent projects, successfully delivering 30+ projects annually
  • Create, monitor, and update project plans to provide a complete picture of project progress and performance at all times
  • Manage project scope, schedule, quality, resources, and risk to ensure that all projects produce the required deliverables on time and at the necessary level of quality
  • Maintain accurate and up-to-date Asana boards throughout each project's lifecycle, ensuring that standard processes are followed, enabling other teammates to collaborate
  • Collaborate with clients to build strong relationships built on trust and commitment
  • Recognize and suggest potential system and process enhancements that could be made to increase effectiveness or efficiency of internal and external processes
  • Identify upsell opportunities and bring those to the attention of the appropriate member of the Sales Team

What You'll Bring:

  • A BA, BS, or any combination of skills and experience that would allow for success in the position
  • Minimum of 3 years related experience, preferably in client-facing roles that involved project management
  • Exceptional attention to detail, accuracy, and organizational skills
  • Excellent written and verbal communication abilities
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Google Suite, and Asana (or a similar work-management tool)
  • Experience with Tableau, data analysis, and reporting (R, SPSS, Excel) is preferred
  • A basic understanding of more complex survey research tools (R) where replication of tasks is required
  • Background in survey research or market research and knowledge of survey methodology and best practices
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a remote team environment
  • Strong problem-solving skills and ability to manage competing priorities

Perks & Benefits:

  • Exceptional benefits package including dental, medical, and vision coverage
  • Remote work environment
  • Flexible work hours, 14 company holidays, and generous paid time off

To Apply:

Apply for the Survey Research Associate position by submitting a resume, one-page cover letter, and your personal information to the listing on Polco's careers page. Both a resume and a cover letter are required for full consideration. Please submit your application materials as PDFs.

This position was first posted on June 24, 2026 and will remain open until filled.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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