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Research Program Assistant Jobs in Waltham, MA (NOW HIRING)

NorthEastern

Research Program Manager

Boston, MA · On-site

Plans and manages schedules and monitors programs from initiation to closeout. * Assist with proposals, budgets, and other information gathering for contract submissions of new research development ...

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Research Program Assistant information

See Waltham, MA salary details

$23.2K

$49.3K

$68K

How much do research program assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for research program assistant in Waltham, MA is $49,327.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,500.00 and $51,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a research program assistant?

A research program assistant is a professional who supports research projects by collecting and analyzing data, managing documentation, and assisting with administrative tasks. They often work under the supervision of researchers or program coordinators and may use tools like spreadsheets or data analysis software. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail are important for this role.

What are some common challenges faced by research program assistants, and how can they be overcome?

Research Program Assistants often juggle multiple tasks such as data collection, participant coordination, and administrative support, which can make time management a key challenge. Adapting to changing project priorities and maintaining clear communication with researchers, participants, and other team members is essential for success. To overcome these challenges, it's helpful to develop strong organizational skills, proactively seek clarification when priorities shift, and regularly check in with supervisors to ensure alignment on project goals and timelines.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a research program assistant?

To thrive as a Research Program Assistant, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a background in research or data management, often supported by a bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with data entry software, survey tools, and basic statistical programs like SPSS or Excel is typically required. Excellent communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities help you collaborate effectively with researchers and participants. These skills ensure accurate data collection, smooth project coordination, and successful research outcomes.

Do research program assistants get paid a lot?

Research program assistants typically earn modest salaries that vary depending on the institution, location, and level of experience. Entry-level positions often pay hourly wages or stipends, with higher pay possible for those with specialized skills or advanced education. Overall, they are not among the highest-paying roles but can provide valuable experience in research settings.

What is the difference between Research Program Assistant vs Research Coordinator?

AspectResearch Program AssistantResearch Coordinator
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in a related fieldOften requires a bachelor's or master's degree, with some roles preferring additional certifications
Work EnvironmentSupports research projects, assisting with data collection and administrative tasksManages research projects, overseeing protocols, compliance, and team coordination
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in academic, healthcare, and research institutions for supporting research activitiesCommonly found in research institutions, universities, and healthcare organizations overseeing research operations

The main difference is that Research Program Assistants support research activities through data collection and administrative tasks, while Research Coordinators oversee entire research projects, managing protocols and team coordination. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What job categories do people searching Research Program Assistant jobs in Waltham, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Research Program Assistant jobs in Waltham, MA are:
What cities near Waltham, MA are hiring for Research Program Assistant jobs? Cities near Waltham, MA with the most Research Program Assistant job openings:
Research Program Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Program Assistant job openings in Waltham, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,327 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Research Program Manager

Northeastern University

Boston, MA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

About the Opportunity
This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. It is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified.
JOB SUMMARY
The Defense Industrial Base Institute seeks an experienced Research Program Manager to support a new DoD funded project as well as its overall institute mission in the metro-Boston area and nationally.
The Research Program Manager, a DoD sponsored research position, is a Boston or Washington DC based position responsible for research program and project management spanning two recently awarded portfolios. Reporting to the Associate Director of Research, the position is responsible for project management of DoD funded initiatives, to include tracking schedule, performance, and risk; coordinating with prime on logistics of stakeholder meetings, overall research background as part of the program execution. The position will coordinate closely with other program managers and key prime stakeholders tied to the project to ensure execution of deliverables and will have oversight of graduate and undergraduate students supporting those projects.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • US Citizenship is a requirement per Federal funding agency
  • PMP certification or relevant project management practical work experience can meet this requirement (5+ years)
  • Bachelor's degree with applicable work experience; graduate degree preferred.
  • Solid Knowledge of DoD program and contract management
  • Strong background in Supply Chain, Procurement, Manufacturing, or other related technical specialty areas.
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to organize and manage multiple activities simultaneously.
  • Demonstrated judgment for prioritization of multiple tasks.
  • Excellent communication skills with a customer (internal and external) service focus.
  • Highly organized and detail oriented; and ability to problem solve effectively.
  • Strong computer and IT knowledge and skills, especially in MS Office suite products, and ability to learn new programs/systems with ease,
  • Ability to travel as required for initiative events or stakeholder research collaboration meetings across the nation

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES & ACCOUNTABILITIES
1) Research Program & Portfolio Oversight and Support:
  • Provides program and portfolio management for multiple institute complex program portfolios.
  • Create systems, organize, and manage program milestones, deliverables, effort, and timelines for all active research.
  • Conduct in depth analysis on projects and manage schedules, and performance and provide reports to Director of Research to ensure proper project execution.
  • Plans and manages schedules and monitors programs from initiation to closeout.
  • Assist with proposals, budgets, and other information gathering for contract submissions of new research development efforts.
  • Collaborate, coordinate, and provide guidance to technical research staff, senior leadership, and other departments within DIBI and NU as it relates to program execution.
  • Interact and coordinate with contracting officials, program managers, technical representatives, and other government personnel and sponsors on assigned research efforts.
  • Collect data and information in response to NU-RES inquiries and requests over the research and related to compliance
  • Provide support to Director of Research and other tasks as assigned.
  • Travel as required to support program and project activities.

2) Meetings, Workshop, and Seminars:
  • Plan, schedule, and conduct research meetings & research discovery/working groups to include kick-off, quarterly meetings, technical seminars, and other ad hoc research meetings.
  • Working alongside event manager, Coordinate and arrange for all logistics and site support needs for public outreach events
  • Maintain attendee lists, confirming in-person or remote engagement, and collect all background research, research presentation materials in an appropriate way for the distribution constraints while coordinating with the Events Manager.
  • Travel as needed to support presentations or public outreach in support of the institute and its DoD portfolio of activities.

3) Manuscript, publication, briefing writing:
  • Working alongside faculty, staff and other researchers, help to outline manuscript, publication, briefing, snapshots or other similar deliverables for funder
  • Directly supporting the development of technical narratives, scope and resource planning, and other supporting documents required for external funding opportunities that align with the institute's mission priorities.
  • Supporting project research teams by identifying and supporting outreach to Northeastern faculty who can potentially collaborate on the Institute's research agenda.

Requirement:
US Citizenship is a requirement per Federal funding agency
Additional Information:
This is a fixed term appointment, with the possibility of renewal based off of continuing external funding
Position Type
Research
Additional Information
Northeastern University considers factors such as candidate work experience, education and skills when extending an offer.
Northeastern has a comprehensive benefits package for benefit eligible employees. This includes medical, vision, dental, paid time off, tuition assistance, wellness & life, retirement- as well as commuting & transportation. Visit https://hr.northeastern.edu/benefits/ for more information.
All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
Compensation Grade/Pay Type:
111S
Expected Hiring Range:
$87,785.00 - $123,998.75
With the pay range(s) shown above, the starting salary will depend on several factors, which may include your education, experience, location, knowledge and expertise, and skills as well as a pay comparison to similarly-situated employees already in the role. Salary ranges are reviewed regularly and are subject to change.

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