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Research Associate Jobs in Portland, ME (NOW HIRING)

Danaher

R&D Internships

Auburn, ME · On-site

About R&D Roles at Danaher Are you driven by curiosity, discovery, and a desire to contribute to ... associates can thrive. Join us to grow your skills and be part of a mission that matters.

Danaher

R&D Internships

Portland, ME · On-site

About R&D Roles at Danaher Are you driven by curiosity, discovery, and a desire to contribute to ... associates can thrive. Join us to grow your skills and be part of a mission that matters.

Danaher

R&D Internships

Biddeford, ME · On-site

About R&D Roles at Danaher Are you driven by curiosity, discovery, and a desire to contribute to ... associates can thrive. Join us to grow your skills and be part of a mission that matters.

Danaher

R&D Internships

South Portland, ME · On-site

About R&D Roles at Danaher Are you driven by curiosity, discovery, and a desire to contribute to ... associates can thrive. Join us to grow your skills and be part of a mission that matters.

Homans Associates

Counter Sales Associate

Portland, ME · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Order Processing & Problem-Solving - Research inventory availability using computer databases ... Qualifications of a Counter Sales Associate: * Prior HVAC experience with basic technical knowledge

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Research Associate information

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$16

$33

$48

How much do research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for research associate in Portland, ME is $33.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.21 and $38.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 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.

What qualifications do you need to be a research associate?

Research associates typically need a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as science, engineering, or social sciences. Many positions prefer or require a master's degree or higher, along with strong analytical skills, proficiency with research tools, and experience in data collection and analysis.
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Infographic showing various Research Associate job openings in Portland, ME as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,231 per year, or $33.8 per hour.

Epidemiologist - Research Associate II

Maine's Public Universities

Portland, ME • On-site

$73K - $79K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description


The Muskie School of Public Service at the University of Southern Maine (USM) is pleased to announce an opening for a full-time Epidemiologist - Research Associate II position.
The Epidemiologist - Research Associate II (RAII) carries out a full range of complex epidemiologic and surveillance activities, with a focus on Environmental and Occupational Health. This position is part of a team of USM epidemiologists and health communication specialists dedicated to building epidemiology and communication capacity at USM and the Maine CDC (the state's public health agency).
The Epidemiologist - RAII provides epidemiology and subject matter expertise to state, federal, and local partners. The Epidemiologist - RAII, in partnership with Maine CDC staff and other USM staff, is responsible for developing, implementing and sustaining public health surveillance systems within the Maine CDC's Environmental Health Program (EHP); this includes assessing the burden and trends of environmental health-related outcomes, exposures, and risk factors in the general population and among sub-populations; and coordinating grant deliverables and reports and overseeing technical staff in the execution of grant activities. In addition, the RAII will lead and collaborate on epidemiologic studies with various Maine CDC programs and with partners in other state and federal agencies.
The Muskie School of Public Service is Maine's distinguished public policy school, combining an extensive applied research and technical assistance portfolio with rigorous undergraduate and graduate degree and certificate programs in geography-anthropology; tourism and hospitality; policy, planning, and management (MPPM); and public health (MPH). The school is nationally recognized for applying innovative knowledge to critical issues in the fields of sustainable development and health and human service policy and management and is home to the Cutler Institute for Health and Social Policy. The Muskie School and Cutler Institute engage in cross-disciplinary opportunities through the University of Maine Graduate & Professional Center, which brings together programs in business, law, policy, and public health.
This is a full-time position with a hybrid balance of 2 days per week in the Maine CDC-Augusta office and 3 days teleworking with a starting annual salary of $73,000 - $79,000.
The University of Southern Maine offers highly competitive benefits for full-time and eligible part-time employees that includes (but is not limited to):
  • 13 paid holidays plus earned vacation time and sick time.
  • Health, dental and vision insurance.
  • Low-cost short-term disability insurance and employer-paid long-term disability insurance.
  • Employer-paid basic life insurance and supplemental life insurance.
  • A tuition waiver program for employees and their spouse or dependent child(ren).
  • A 403(b)-retirement plan with employer contribution.
  • Free access to the METRO system, including the Husky Line with service between our Portland and Gorham campuses.

To learn more, please review the Benefits Information Summary.
The University of Southern Maine is a vibrant academic community located in the greater Portland, Maine area, including campuses in Portland, Gorham, Lewiston, and online. USM is part of the University of Maine System and offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing hands-on learning, community engagement, and interdisciplinary collaboration. With a highly engaged student-centered learning environment, USM is a steward of higher education, helping drive the economic, cultural, and civic life in the communities where our campuses are located and beyond. USM is committed to providing expanded access to high-quality education that elevates economic opportunity and contributes significantly to the vitality of a diverse society. To learn more about USM, visit About Our University.
The University of Southern Maine fosters a welcoming and supportive campus environment that respects and appreciates varied perspectives, enhancing teaching, learning, personal growth, and overall institutional achievement. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds who share our dedication to academic excellence and the enrichment of our community.
We are dedicated to our Service Promise, Student Focused Every Day and seek a team member who embraces this commitment and upholds our core values of Respect & Care, Integrity, Equity, and Responsiveness.
Required Qualifications:
  • Master's degree in Epidemiology, Public Health or related field, preferably from an accredited school of public health, and a minimum of 6 years of epidemiologic-related work experience.
  • Demonstrated mastery of principles of epidemiology and public health.
  • Experience developing and implementing public health surveillance systems.
  • Experience building partnerships and successfully collaborating with internal and external partners.
  • Ability to identify the need for applied epidemiologic studies.
  • Strong quantitative and qualitative research skills, including experience with major computer-based statistical packages, preferably SAS and/or R.

How To Apply:
Click on the 'Apply Now' button below or visit our USM Careers Page and submit the following:
  • Cover Letter
  • Resume/Curriculum Vitae
  • Finalist candidates will be asked to provide a list of the names and contact information for references.

All application materials must be received by August 18, 2026.
We are not able to consider applicants who require Visa sponsorship support.
Appropriate background screening will be conducted for the successful candidate.
The University of Maine System (the System) is an equal opportunity institution committed to fostering a nondiscriminatory environment and complying with all applicable nondiscrimination laws. Consistent with State and Federal law, the System does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, transgender status, gender, gender identity or expression, ethnicity, national origin, citizenship status, familial status, ancestry, age, disability (physical or mental), genetic information, pregnancy, or veteran or military status in any aspect of its education, programs and activities, and employment. The System provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. If you believe you have experienced discrimination or harassment, you are encouraged to contact the System Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX Services at 5713 Chadbourne Hall, Room 412, Orono, ME 04469-5713, by calling 207.581.1226, or via TTY at 711 (Maine Relay System). For more information about Title IX or to file a complaint, please contact the UMS Title IX Coordinator.
Clery Act:
The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, or Clery Act, mandates that all Title IV institutions, such as the University, prepare, publish, and distribute an Annual Security Report (ASR), and provide notice of the availability of the ASR to all prospective employees. This report consists of two basic parts: disclosure of the University's crime statistics for the past three calendar years; and disclosures regarding the University's current campus security policies. View the University's Annual Security Report (PDF). If you wish to have a paper copy of the ASR or need to have a copy of the ASR in an accessible format, the University will provide such a copy upon request. Please contact our Public Safety Office at 207.780.5211.

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