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Research Data Analyst Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Naughty Dog

Research Data Analyst

Santa Monica, CA

Naughty Dog is looking for a Research Data Analyst to join our User Research team and help us better understand how players engage with our games. In this role, you'll work closely with Sony Game ...

Naughty Dog

Research Data Analyst

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$51.83 - $64.76/hr

Naughty Dog is looking for a Research Data Analyst to join our User Research team and help us better understand how players engage with our games. In this role, you'll work closely with Sony Game ...

Stanford University

Research Data Analyst 2

Stanford, CA · On-site

$108K - $128K/yr

The Center for Population Health Sciences at Stanford University School of Medicine is seeking a Research Data Analyst 2 for data management and analysis work focused on population health. The ...

Stanford University

Research Data Analyst 2

Stanford, CA · On-site

$108K - $128K/yr

The Center for Population Health Sciences at Stanford University School of Medicine is seeking a Research Data Analyst 2 for data management and analysis work focused on population health. The ...

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All JobsResearch Data Analyst JobsResearch Data Analyst Jobs in California

Research Data Analyst information

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$38K

$73K

$98.2K

How much do research data analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for research data analyst in California is $72,996.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,300.00 and $97,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a research data analyst?

A Research Data Analyst is a professional who collects, processes, and analyzes data to support research projects across various fields, such as healthcare, social sciences, or business. They use statistical tools and programming languages to interpret complex data sets and help researchers draw meaningful conclusions. Their responsibilities often include data cleaning, statistical analysis, and visualization of results for reports or publications. Research Data Analysts play a crucial role in ensuring the quality and integrity of the data used in research studies.

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

To excel as a Research Data Analyst, you need strong analytical skills, proficiency in statistics, and a relevant degree in fields such as mathematics, statistics, or computer science. Familiarity with statistical software (e.g., R, SAS, SPSS), data visualization tools (like Tableau or Power BI), and programming languages (such as Python) is typically required. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and the ability to clearly communicate complex findings are crucial soft skills. These competencies ensure accurate data interpretation, effective collaboration with research teams, and impactful decision-making based on reliable insights.

What are some common challenges research data analysts face when working with large datasets, and how are they addressed?

Research Data Analysts often encounter challenges such as data inconsistencies, missing values, and integrating data from multiple sources when working with large datasets. Addressing these challenges typically involves implementing rigorous data cleaning protocols, utilizing statistical software for data validation, and collaborating closely with research teams to understand the context behind the data. Analysts may also create documentation and standardized procedures to streamline future data processing and ensure data integrity. Staying updated with best practices in data management can help mitigate many of these issues.

What is the difference between Research Data Analyst vs Data Scientist?

AspectResearch Data AnalystData Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in data analysis, statistics, or related field; often certifications in data toolsBachelor's or master's in computer science, statistics, or related; often advanced certifications or training
Work EnvironmentResearch institutions, universities, or corporate research divisionsTech companies, finance, healthcare, or any industry leveraging big data
Employer & Industry UsageAcademic, government, and research organizationsPrivate sector, startups, and large corporations

Research Data Analysts focus on analyzing data to support research projects, often working within academic or research settings. Data Scientists have a broader scope, including building predictive models and advanced analytics across various industries. While both roles require strong analytical skills and familiarity with data tools, Data Scientists typically have more advanced technical expertise and work on complex data modeling tasks.

What are the most commonly searched types of Research Data Analyst jobs in California?

The most popular types of Research Data Analyst jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Research Data Analyst jobs in California?

For Research Data Analyst jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Research Data Analyst jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Research Data Analyst jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Research Data Analyst jobs?

Cities in California with the most Research Data Analyst job openings:

Research Data Analyst jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Data Analyst job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,996 per year, or $35.1 per hour.

Research Data Analyst

University of California San Francisco

San Francisco, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

University Of California San Francisco rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

237th of 631 rated colleges and universities

Job description


Involves gathering, analyzing, and interpreting a wide variety of research data. Designs and conducts research including selecting data samples, developing research instruments, analyzing collected information according to established statistical methods, and developing recommendations based on research findings. Prepares reports, charts, tables, and other visual aids to interpret and communicate data and results.
The Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology in the Department of Medicine advances the understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of gastrointestinal and liver diseases. The division provides outstanding care to patients and has a longstanding reputation for excellence in hepatology research.
Responsibilities
of time
Essential Function (Yes/No)
Key Responsibilities
(To be completed by Supervisor)
30
YesUnder direct supervision, performs basic statistical and data analysis.
5
Yes
Collects research data and prepares it for analysis.
5
YesAssists with study design proposals and survey instruments.
5
YesSupports testing of research instruments and data sources.
20
YesAssists with report preparation and / or analysis for internal constituents.
15
YesAssists with evaluation and research of data reporting products.
15
YesDevelops knowledge in areas of storage, documentation and dissemination of computerized data.
5
YesOther duties as assigned
100%
(To update total %, enter the amount of time in whole numbers (without the % symbol - e.g., 15, 20) then highlight the total sum (e.g., 1%) at the bottom of the column and press F9. The total sum should add up to 100%.)
Qualifications
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in related area and / or equivalent experience / training.
  • Demonstrated ability to work with others from diverse backgrounds.
  • Self-motivated and works independently and as part of a team.
  • Demonstrated problem-solving skills. Able to learn effectively and meet deadlines.
  • Demonstrated service orientation skills.
  • Strong organizational skills.
  • Ability to efficiently manage a variety of different tasks at the same time.
  • Ability to prioritize tasks appropriately.
  • Strong quantitative training.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Two (2) years of progressive programming experience or equivalent educational experience.
  • Knowledge of data management systems, practices and standards. Significant experience using SQL, R, or Python.
  • Knowledge relating to logical data design, data warehouse design, data integration or the management of web content or other unstructured data. Strong quantitative background preferably in biostatistics, statistics, econometrics, or related fields.
  • Significant experience using MS Word, Excel, and Access.
  • Establish analyzable data sets and document them for future use by statisticians. Perform range and quality checks and make recommendations to study staff for revising existing procedures to mitigate data errors.
  • Demonstrated effective communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to communicate effectively with a diverse range of non-technical staff.
  • Strong analytical and design skills, including the ability to abstract information requirements from real-world processes to understand information flows in computer systems.
  • Ability to represent relevant information in abstract models. Critical thinking skills and attention to detail.
  • Experience with longitudinal regression modeling, sample size calculations.
  • Experience in scientific writing for publication.

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