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Research Communications Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Communications Assistant

Riverside, CA · On-site

$43K - $57K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

Conduct research to gather data and insights that inform communication strategies and decisions. * Help coordinate media relations efforts, including drafting pitches and tracking coverage. * Assist ...

Conduct research that will bring new insights to communications, including research on industry news and events * Provide input to campaigns focusing on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives

Showing results 41-60

Research Communications information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$32.3K

$69.9K

$116.3K

How much do research communications jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for research communications in Riverside, CA is $69,905.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,800.00 and $74,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is research communications?

Research communications involves sharing scientific or academic research findings with various audiences, including the public, policymakers, stakeholders, and other researchers. Professionals in this field translate complex research concepts into clear and accessible messages using articles, reports, social media, presentations, and press releases. Their work helps bridge the gap between researchers and non-expert audiences, increasing the impact and visibility of research. Effective research communication can drive informed decision-making, shape public opinion, and foster collaboration across disciplines.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in research communications?

To thrive in Research Communications, you need excellent written and verbal communication skills, a background in science or research, and often a degree in communications, journalism, or a related field. Familiarity with content management systems, publication tools, and data visualization software is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, adaptability, and the ability to translate complex information for diverse audiences set outstanding professionals apart. These skills are vital for effectively disseminating research findings, engaging stakeholders, and supporting an organization’s mission and credibility.

How does a research communications professional typically collaborate with researchers and other stakeholders to ensure accurate dissemination of findings?

Research Communications professionals work closely with researchers, subject matter experts, and institutional stakeholders to translate complex research findings into accessible content for diverse audiences. This involves frequent meetings to clarify scientific concepts, reviewing drafts for accuracy, and coordinating with communications teams to develop press releases, reports, or digital materials. Building strong working relationships is essential, as it fosters trust and ensures that all communications accurately reflect the research while aligning with organizational goals. Effective collaboration also helps anticipate potential misinterpretations and address them proactively.

What is the difference between Research Communications vs Scientific Writer?

AspectResearch CommunicationsScientific Writer
Primary FocusCommunicating research findings to diverse audiences, including public, stakeholders, and mediaCreating detailed scientific documents, articles, and reports for academic or industry audiences
Work EnvironmentResearch institutions, universities, government agencies, or industryAcademic journals, publishing houses, biotech or pharma companies
Required CredentialsBackground in science or research, communication skills, often a degree in science or communicationsStrong scientific background, writing skills, often a degree in science, journalism, or communications

Research Communications and Scientific Writers both require a scientific background and strong communication skills. However, Research Communications focuses on translating complex research into accessible formats for various audiences, while Scientific Writers primarily produce detailed scientific documents and publications. Both roles are vital in disseminating scientific knowledge but serve different communication needs within the industry.

What are popular job titles related to Research Communications jobs in Riverside, CA?

For Research Communications jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Research Communications jobs in Riverside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Research Communications jobs in Riverside, CA are:

Infographic showing various Research Communications job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,905 per year, or $33.6 per hour.

$20 - $23/hr

Part-time

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Job description

Job Description
Intern - Public Outreach
Join OCTA's Public Outreach team as a College Intern and gain hands-on experience supporting the development, building and expanding of OCTA's diverse community program. In this role, you will assist with research, communications planning, content development, and public outreach efforts designed to inform and connect communities with OCTA's services and projects.
Under direct supervision, you will perform a variety of professional entry-level duties related to your major field of study and the sponsoring department's current business operations. As a College Intern, you will be exposed to OCTA's career opportunities in the transportation industry. You will gain deeper awareness of transportation's many facets through your OCTA orientation, projects and teams, and internal networking.
OCTA's College Intern Program is a year-round paid student/intern program. You will gain real world work experience on meaningful projects under the guidance of a transportation professional. You will have the opportunity to use problem solving, communication and decision-making skills as you gain valuable work experience. You will also work with a mentor and benefit from career counseling.
The pay range is from $20.00 - $23.00 per hour depending on your education level. This position is not eligible for employee benefits. The work schedule will consist of approximately 20 hours a week, not to exceed 1,000 hours within a continuous 12-month period.
This posting will remain open until filled.
What You'll Do
  • Understand the diverse community outreach program and support program development and growth
  • Conduct informal and formal data research.
  • Assist in planning and implementing outreach efforts
  • Utilize strong writing and presentation skills to effectively engage with hard-to-reach and underserved audiences
  • Apply effective organizational skills and the ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously under tight deadlines.

What We're Looking For
  • Currently enrolled full-time college student (Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, or Senior) at an accredited two- or four-year college or university
  • Pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, Sociology, or a related field.
  • Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher
  • Bilingual preferred
  • Strong writing skills
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint
  • Ability to create engaging visuals and presentations tailored to diverse audiences
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects under tight deadlines
  • Comfortable presenting and interfacing with diverse and underserved communities
  • Professional demeanor with a collaborative, team-oriented mindset

Why You'll Love It Here
  • Contribute to meaningful outreach efforts that support equity and community connection
  • Work alongside experienced transportation professionals
  • Build real-world writing, presentation, and project coordination skills
  • Expand your professional network through mentorship and cross-department collaboration
  • Help improve mobility and access to transportation services for communities across Orange County

Join a team where innovation, integrity, and strategic thinking are valued.
Apply now to gain meaningful experience and help shape the future of transportation funding and capital programming at OCTA.
OCTA is an equal employment opportunity employer that recruits, hires, and promotes qualified people without regard to race, color, religion, creed, ancestry, national origin, age, sex, pregnancy, gender, gender identity and/or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, medical condition, disability, genetic information, military and veteran status, or any other legally protected status.

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