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Research Associate Jobs in Waco, TX (NOW HIRING)

Job Title Research Associate Agency Texas A&M Agrilife Research Department Mcgregor Proposed Minimum Salary Commensurate Job Location McGregor, Texas Job Type Staff About Texas A&M AgriLife Texas A&M ...

Job Title Research Associate Agency Texas A&M Agrilife Research Department Mcgregor Proposed Minimum Salary Commensurate Job Location McGregor, Texas Job Type Staff About Texas A&M AgriLife Texas A&M ...

Job Title Postdoctoral Research Associate Agency Texas A&M Agrilife Research Department Temple Proposed Minimum Salary Commensurate Job Location Temple, Texas Job Type Staff About Texas A&M AgriLife ...

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Research Associate information

See Waco, TX salary details

$14

$28

$41

How much do research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for research associate in Waco, TX is $28.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.27 and $32.88 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Research jobs in Waco, TX? The most popular types of Research jobs in Waco, TX are:
What job categories do people searching Research Associate jobs in Waco, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Research Associate jobs in Waco, TX are:
What cities near Waco, TX are hiring for Research Associate jobs? Cities near Waco, TX with the most Research Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Research Associate job openings in Waco, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, and 16% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $60,088 per year, or $28.9 per hour.

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Job description

Job Title

Research Associate

Agency

Texas A&M Agrilife Research

Department

Mcgregor

Proposed Minimum Salary

Commensurate

Job Location

McGregor, Texas

Job Type

Staff

Job Description

Job Description

About Texas A&M AgriLife

Texas A&M AgriLife is comprised of the following Texas A&M University System members:

  • Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service

  • Texas A&M AgriLife Research

  • College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Texas A&M University

  • Texas A&M Forest Service

  • Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory

As the nation's largest most comprehensive agriculture program, Texas A&M AgriLife brings together a college and four state agencies focused on agriculture and life sciences within The Texas A&M University System. With over 5,000 employees and a presence in every county across the state, Texas A&M AgriLife is uniquely positioned to improve lives, environments and the Texas economy through education, research, extension and service.

Click here to learn more about how you can be a part of AgriLife and make a difference in the world!

Position Information

The Research Associate performs independent or supervisory roles in research activities requiring an advanced level of knowledge in a field of science or learning, are predominantly intellectual and varied in character, and require consistent use of discretion and judgment. Prepare proposals for funding agencies, operation and maintenance of research equipment, supervision of graduate students and other lab/field personnel in research, communication, problem solving skills, and management are critical to the success of this position.

Responsibilities:

-Supervise experiments in support of various research projects conducted at the McGregor Research Center: this includes sourcing animals, scheduling facility use, communicating and coordinating research schedules for labor, data collection, and equipment use.

-Evaluate, select, and apply standard techniques of research; to include routine data collection for research and herd management. Collect, transfer, and summarize detailed records of data. Knowledge of program guidelines, procedures, policies, rules, and regulations: including AgriLife Animal Care & Use Committee and A&M Institutional Animal Care & Use Committee.

-Assist with research needs from research PI's or graduate students during projects: this may include but not limited to data collection, feed management, animal management, adjustments to facilities, pasture design, schedules, or research protocols.

-Assist in operation and maintenance of equipment and technology used for electronic data collection.

-Use computers and laboratory or technical equipment to perform data analysis, statistical analysis, and technical evaluation of research experiments and results.

-Summarize results for inclusion in scientific and clientele-oriented publications.

-Prepare and write proposals to funding agencies; maintain financial accounts related to research projects.

-Supervise undergraduate and/or graduate students and other laboratory, technical or field staff involved in research during research project data collections while at McGregor Research Center.

-Responsible for coordinating data collection and timely data entry into AgriWebb (McGregor's livestock, pasture, and feed management program), Farmbrite (McGregor's livestock inventory program), TEAMs Excel Cattle Files, as well as training other employees to use the programs.

-Assist with scheduled cattle management and husbandry processing. This includes (but is not limited to) vaccinations, tagging, mixing feed, feeding (rations or hay), animal movement, data collection, and maintaining animal records.

-Operate, maintain, update, and/or repair research equipment.

-Maintains training requirements for compliance.

-Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:

-Bachelor's degree in relevant field.

-Minimum of two years of related professional experience.

-Familiarity with appropriate laboratory and/or technical equipment.

-Ability to effectively utilize a computer and applicable software to create databases and perform other computer related task.

-Ability to multi-task and work cooperatively with others.

-Ability to communicate effectively.

-Perform independent or supervisory roles in research activities requiring an advanced level of knowledge in a field of science or learning, are predominantly intellectual and varied in character, and require consistent use of discretion and judgment.

-Prepare proposals for funding agencies, operation of research equipment, supervision of graduate students and other lab/field personnel in research.

Preferred Qualifications:

-Advanced degree in relevant field.

What You Need to Know

Salary: Compensation for this position is commensurate based on the selected candidate's qualifications.

Why Work at Texas A&M AgriLife?

When you choose toworkfor Texas A&M AgriLife, you become part of an organization that is an established leader in agriculture and life sciences with a wide range of capabilities to meet the needs of our statewide, national, and international constituents.

In addition, Texas A&M AgriLife offers a comprehensive benefit package including the following:

  • Health, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance with Texas A&M AgriLife contributing to employee health and basic life premiums

  • 12-15 days of annual paid holidays

  • Up to eight hours of paid sick leaveand at leasteight hours of paid vacation each month

  • Automatic enrollment in theTeacher Retirement System of Texas

  • Employee Wellness Initiative for Texas A&M AgriLife

Applicant Instructions

Applications received by Texas A&M AgriLife must either have all job application data entered or a resume attached. Failure to provide all job application data or a complete resume could result in an invalid submission and a rejected application. We encourage all applicants to upload a resume or use a LinkedIn profile to prepopulate the online application.

All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution's verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution's procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.

Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer.


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