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Research Methods Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Research Specialists

Campus, IL · On-site

$29.91K - $68.63K/mo

Remain knowledgeable in the research methods, techniques, and developments in field of specialty. Learn more about the great benefits of working for University of Utah: benefits.utah.edu The ...

Research Specialists

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

$29.91K - $68.63K/mo

Remain knowledgeable in the research methods, techniques, and developments in field of specialty. Learn more about the great benefits of working for University of Utah: benefits.utah.edu The ...

Research Specialists

Campus, IL

$29.91K - $68.63K/mo

Remain knowledgeable in the research methods, techniques, and developments in field of specialty. Learn more about the great benefits of working for University of Utah: benefits.utah.edu The ...

Research Specialists

Campus, IL · Hybrid

$29.91K - $68.63K/mo

Remain knowledgeable in the research methods, techniques, and developments in field of specialty. Requires basic skill set and proficiency. Conducts work assignments as directed. Closely supervised ...

Research Specialists

Salt Lake City, UT · Hybrid

$29.91K - $68.63K/mo

Remain knowledgeable in the research methods, techniques, and developments in field of specialty. Requires basic skill set and proficiency. Conducts work assignments as directed. Closely supervised ...

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Research Methods information

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$37K

$106K

$142.5K

How much do research methods jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for research methods in the United States is $106,012.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,000.00 and $104,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Research Methods Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Research Methods Specialist, you need a strong background in research design, statistical analysis, and data interpretation, often supported by an advanced degree in a relevant field such as psychology, sociology, or statistics. Familiarity with statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R, or SAS), survey tools, and data management systems is typically required. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for designing robust studies and sharing findings. These competencies ensure that research is rigorous, reliable, and actionable for informing decisions or advancing knowledge.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in research methods, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in research methods often encounter challenges such as ensuring data validity, managing large or complex datasets, and staying updated with the latest methodological advancements. Collaboration with subject matter experts and statisticians is key to addressing these issues, as is regular participation in training and workshops. Additionally, clear communication with stakeholders helps ensure that research objectives and methodologies are aligned, reducing misunderstandings and improving outcomes.

What are research methods?

Research methods are the systematic strategies and techniques that researchers use to collect, analyze, and interpret data. They can be broadly categorized into qualitative and quantitative methods, depending on whether the focus is on numerical data or non-numerical insights. Choosing the right research method is crucial for ensuring the validity and reliability of the study's outcomes. Examples include surveys, experiments, interviews, observations, and case studies.

What is the difference between Research Methods vs Data Analyst?

AspectResearch MethodsData Analyst
Required CredentialsTypically degrees in social sciences, research methods certificationsDegrees in statistics, data science, or related fields
Work EnvironmentAcademic, research institutions, market research firmsCorporate, finance, marketing departments
Industry UsageDesigning studies, collecting data, analyzing research resultsInterpreting data, creating reports, supporting decision-making

Research Methods focus on designing and conducting research studies, while Data Analysts interpret data to inform business or academic decisions. Both roles require analytical skills but differ in scope and application.

More about Research Methods jobs
What cities are hiring for Research Methods jobs? Cities with the most Research Methods job openings:
What states have the most Research Methods jobs? States with the most job openings for Research Methods jobs include:
Infographic showing various Research Methods job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,012 per year, or $51 per hour.
Research Specialists

Research Specialists

University of Utah

Campus, IL • On-site

$29.91K - $68.63K/mo

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 21 days ago


University Of Utah rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 157 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

329th of 530 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Details
Open Date 05/22/2026 Requisition Number PRN45161B Job Title Research Specialists Working Title Research Specialists Career Progression Track P00 Track Level P3 - Career, P2 - Developing, P1 - Entry Level Pro FLSA Code Professional Patient Sensitive Job Code? No Standard Hours per Week 40 Full Time or Part Time? Full Time Shift Day Work Schedule Summary VP Area U of U Health - Academics Department 01337 - Molecular Medicine Program Location Campus City Salt Lake City, UT Type of Recruitment External Posting Pay Rate Range Depends on Experience Close Date 08/31/2026 Priority Review Date (Note - Posting may close at any time) Job Summary
Research Specialists
Set up and conduct experiments according to established research protocols while working under the direction of scientists. Perform a variety of tasks contributing to tests and studies to support the objectives of research projects. Prepare samples for analysis and perform laboratory tasks and procedures. Collect and analyze data, and test, validate, and document results. Summarize research findings to help inform decisions. Assist in the preparation of research documentation, such as grants, regulatory submissions, manuscripts, reports, summaries, publications, and presentations. Remain knowledgeable in the research methods, techniques, and developments in field of specialty.
Learn more about the great benefits of working for University of Utah: benefits.utah.edu
The department may choose to hire at any of the below job levels and associated pay rates based on their business need and budget.
Responsibilities
Research Specialist, I
Set up and conduct experiments according to established research protocols while working under the direction of scientists. Perform a variety of tasks contributing to tests and studies to support the objectives of research projects. Prepare samples for analysis and perform laboratory tasks and procedures. Collect and analyze data, and test, validate, and document results. Summarize research findings to help inform decisions. Assist in the preparation of research documentation, such as grants, regulatory submissions, manuscripts, reports, summaries, publications, and presentations. Remain knowledgeable in the research methods, techniques, and developments in field of specialty. Requires basic skill set and proficiency. Conducts work assignments as directed. Closely supervised with little latitude for independent judgment.

Requires a bachelor's (or equivalency) + 2 years of directly related work experience or a master's (or equivalency) degree.
This is an Entry-Level position in the General Professional track.
Job Code: P56431
Grade: P12
Expected Pay Range: $27,194 to $62,386

Research Specialist, II
Set up and conduct experiments according to established research protocols while working under the direction of scientists. Perform a variety of tasks contributing to tests and studies to support the objectives of research projects. Prepare samples for analysis and perform laboratory tasks and procedures. Collect and analyze data, and test, validate, and document results. Summarize research findings to help inform decisions. Assist in the preparation of research documentation, such as grants, regulatory submissions, manuscripts, reports, summaries, publications, and presentations. Remain knowledgeable in the research methods, techniques, and developments in field of specialty. Requires moderate skill set and proficiency in discipline. Conducts work assignments of increasing complexity, under moderate supervision with some latitude for independent judgment.

Requires a bachelor's (or equivalency) + 4 years or a master's (or equivalency) + 2 years of directly related work experience.
This is a Developing-Level position in the General Professional track.
Job Code: P56432
Grade: P13
Expected Pay Range: $29,913 to $68,625

Research Specialist, III
Set up and conduct experiments according to established research protocols while working under the direction of scientists. Perform a variety of tasks contributing to tests and studies to support the objectives of research projects. Prepare samples for analysis and perform laboratory tasks and procedures. Collect and analyze data, and test, validate, and document results. Summarize research findings to help inform decisions. Assist in the preparation of research documentation, such as grants, regulatory submissions, manuscripts, reports, summaries, publications, and presentations. Remain knowledgeable in the research methods, techniques, and developments in field of specialty. Considered highly skilled and proficient in discipline. Conducts complex, important work under minimal supervision and with wide latitude for independent judgment.

Requires a bachelor's (or equivalency) + 6 years or a master's (or equivalency) + 4 years of directly related work experience.
This is a Career-Level position in the General Professional track.
Job Code: P56433
Grade: P15
Expected Pay Range: $36,196 to $83,036



Minimum Qualifications
EQUIVALENCY STATEMENT: 1 year of higher education can be substituted for 1 year of directly related work experience (Example: bachelor's degree = 4 years of directly related work experience).
Department may hire employee at one of the following job levels:

Research Specialist, I: Requires a bachelor's (or equivalency) + 2 years of directly related work experience or a master's (or equivalency) degree.
Research Specialist, II: Requires a bachelor's (or equivalency) + 4 years or a master's (or equivalency) + 2 years of directly related work experience.
Research Specialist, III: Requires a bachelor's (or equivalency) + 6 years or a master's (or equivalency) + 4 years of directly related work experience.


Preferences Type Benefited Staff Special Instructions Summary Additional Information
The University is a participating employer with Utah Retirement Systems ("URS"). Eligible new hires with prior URS service, may elect to enroll in URS if they make the election before they become eligible for retirement (usually the first day of work). Contact Human Resources at (801) 581-7447 for information. Individuals who previously retired and are receiving monthly retirement benefits from URS are subject to URS' post-retirement rules and restrictions. Please contact Utah Retirement Systems at (801) 366-7770 or (800) 695-4877 or University Human Resource Management at (801) 581-7447 if you have questions regarding the post-retirement rules.
This position may require the successful completion of a criminal background check and/or drug screen.
The University of Utah values candidates who have experience working in settings with students and possess a strong commitment to improving access to higher education.
Veterans' preference is extended to qualified applicants, upon request and consistent with University policy and Utah state law. Upon request, reasonable accommodations in the application process will be provided to individuals with disabilities.
Consistent with state and federal law, the University of Utah does not discriminate based upon race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information, or protected veteran's status. The University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX and 34 CFR part 106. The requirement not to discriminate in education programs or activities extends to admission and employment. Inquiries about the application of Title IX and its regulations may be referred to the Title IX Coordinator, to the Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, or both.
To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability or if you or someone you know has experienced discrimination or sexual misconduct including sexual harassment, you may contact the Director/Title IX Coordinator in the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX (OEO). More information, including the Director/Title IX Coordinator's office address, electronic mail address, and telephone number can be located at the: University of Utah NonDiscrimination page.
Online reports may be submitted at https://oeo.utah.edu

https://publicsafety.utah.edu/safetyreport/
This report includes statistics about criminal offenses, hate crimes, arrests and referrals for disciplinary action, and Violence Against Women Act offenses. They also provide information about safety and security-related services offered by the University of Utah. A paper copy can be obtained by request at the Department of Public Safety located at 1658 East 500 South.
As per University of Utah policy 5-108: Transfer of Benefits Eligible Staff Members, a new hire to the University of Utah who is still serving a 12 month probationary period will not be hired into another University of Utah job (a transfer) until the successful completion of the probationary period.

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The University of Utah is the state’s flagship institution of higher education, with 18 schools and colleges, more than 100 undergraduate majors and graduate programs, and an enrollment of more than 38,000 students. It is a member of the Association of American Universities—an invitation-only, prestigious group of 71 leading research institutions. The U is advancing a new national model for higher education that delivers societal impact through education, research, health care, and community service, while making social, economic, and cultural contributions that improve lives across Utah and around the world.

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Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Salt Lake City, UT, US

Year founded

1850