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Research Associate Jobs in Springfield, VA (NOW HIRING)

AIPAC

Associate, Research UDP

Washington, DC · Hybrid

$52K - $58K/yr

United Democracy Project, the Super Pac affiliated with AIPAC, is hiring a Research Associate. The position would work with our multi-member team, conducting research on Members of Congress and ...

AIPAC

Associate, Research UDP

Washington, DC · On-site

$52K - $58K/yr

United Democracy Project, the Super Pac affiliated with AIPAC, is hiring a Research Associate. The position would work with our multi-member team, conducting research on Members of Congress and ...

HRA

Be Seen First

Research Associate - Healthcare Analytics

Bethesda, MD · On-site

THIS IS AN ENTRY-LEVEL POSITION The Research Associate will collaborate with our research team to design, execute, analyze, and report studies focused on epidemiology, program evaluation, and health ...

Emmes

Clinical Research Associate II

Rockville, MD · On-site +1

Overview Clinical Research Associate II US Remote Emmes Group: Building a better future for us all. Emmes Group is transforming the future of clinical research, bringing the promise of new medical ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsResearch Associate JobsResearch Associate Jobs in Springfield, VA

Research Associate information

See Springfield, VA salary details

$17

$33

$48

How much do research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for research associate in Springfield, VA is $33.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.36 and $38.65 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 are Research Associates?

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 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.

More about Research Associate jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Research jobs in Springfield, VA? The most popular types of Research jobs in Springfield, VA are:
What job categories do people searching Research Associate jobs in Springfield, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Research Associate jobs in Springfield, VA are:
What cities near Springfield, VA are hiring for Research Associate jobs? Cities near Springfield, VA with the most Research Associate job openings:
Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Associate job openings in Springfield, VA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,699 per year, or $34 per hour.
Research Associate - Legal Studies

Research Associate - Legal Studies

Cato Institute

Washington, DC • Hybrid

$57K - $62K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Description


The Cato Institute is seeking a Research Associate to support the Legal Studies team with administrative tasks and the implementation of a hybrid public education campaign around jury empowerment.


The Research Associate will support the development and management of a multi-month public outreach campaign featuring extensive use of social media, coordination of different personnel, and occasional travel to Richmond, Virginia. They will assist with planning other strategic initiatives as well. They will assist with annual hiring cycles, as well as with tabling, formatting, and filing of legal documents. Paralegal experience is not required. The ideal candidate is a self-starter, team player, well-organized, and detail-oriented.


This position could be hybrid or at Cato's office.


The projected salary range for this role is $57,000-$62,000 per year. Compensation is based on the successful candidate's educational background, experience, and skills.


About Cato


The Cato Institute is a public policy research organization - a think tank - dedicated to the principles of individual liberty, limited government, free markets, and peace. Its scholars and analysts conduct independent, nonpartisan research on a wide range of policy issues.


Founded in 1977, Cato owes its name to Cato's Letters, a series of essays published in 18th-century England that presented a vision of a society free from excessive government power. Those essays inspired the architects of the American Revolution. And the simple, timeless principles of that revolution - individual liberty, limited government, and free markets - turn out to be even more powerful in today's world of global markets and unprecedented access to information than Jefferson or Madison could have imagined. Social and economic freedom is not just the best policy for a free people; it is an indispensable framework for the future.


The Cato Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer.


Responsibilities

  • Support the administrative and organizational needs of the Legal Studies team.
  • Administratively manage a public outreach campaign, including social media, community events, and ally coordination.
  • Prepare documents for legal filing

Requirements

Education and Experience

  • No prior work experience required.

Skills

  • Passion for the intersection of law, government policy, and libertarianism.
  • Familiarity with PACER and Lexis is a plus.
  • Strong organizational skills and a commitment to accuracy.
  • Strong writing skills.
  • Strong people and teamwork skills, with demonstrated ability to question assumptions, think independently, and advance new ideas.

To Apply

Please submit the following materials in one PDF file:

  • CV/Resume
  • Cover Letter/Intro Email.
  • Two work samples (original papers, articles, memos, blog posts, etc.).

Benefits

All Cato employees are provided with:

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Employer contribution to a Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Generous vacation and sick days
  • Paid parental leave
  • Employer-provided life and disability insurance
  • 401(k) employer match
  • Transit/ Parking benefits
  • Pet discount plan


Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. This position does not offer visa sponsorship.

Apply