ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Research Project Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Chapman University

Research Lab Assistant

Orange, CA · On-site

$17/hr

Maintain accurate research records, documentation, and project files. * Participate in research meetings and collaborative discussions with faculty, research partners, and fellow student researchers ...

Real-Time Innovations

Research Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site +1

Actively interface with research project sponsors, customers, research partners, and prospects * Develop expertise in emerging technology and share your insights across RTI * Communicate technical ...

Knit

Research Director

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Driving and documenting in-depth project scoping to uncover a deep understanding of research objectives and project context to set up project success * Driving as the strategic problem solver and ...

Real-Time Innovations

Research Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

Actively interface with research project sponsors, customers, research partners, and prospects * Develop expertise in emerging technology and share your insights across RTI * Communicate technical ...

Sensis Inc.

Research Director

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

You will lead and develop your project team as they manage and execute research projects, as well as be the lead analyst on your own studies. You will also provide guidance to team members on various ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsResearch Project JobsResearch Project Jobs in California

Research Project information

See California salary details

$49.3K

$84.9K

$130.3K

How much do research project jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for research project in California is $84,905.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,600.00 and $90,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a research project?

Research projects are structured investigations designed to answer specific questions or solve problems within a particular field of study. They typically involve defining a research question, conducting a literature review, gathering and analyzing data, and presenting findings. Research projects can be undertaken in academic, scientific, or professional settings and may contribute to new knowledge, policy recommendations, or practical solutions. These projects often require collaboration, critical thinking, and adherence to ethical standards.

What are some common challenges faced when managing a research project team, and how can they be overcome?

Managing a research project team often involves balancing diverse skillsets, coordinating schedules across disciplines, and ensuring clear communication among members. One frequent challenge is aligning everyone’s priorities and timelines, particularly when team members have varying backgrounds or external commitments. Overcoming these challenges typically involves setting clear objectives, holding regular check-ins, and fostering an open, collaborative environment where feedback is encouraged. Utilizing project management tools and maintaining thorough documentation can also help ensure tasks are tracked and progress remains transparent for all team members.

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

To thrive as a Research Project Manager, you need expertise in project management, data analysis, and subject-specific research methods, often supported by an advanced degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with project management software (such as Microsoft Project or Asana), statistical analysis tools (like SPSS or R), and compliance protocols (such as IRB processes) is typically required. Exceptional organizational skills, critical thinking, and clear communication help coordinate teams and stakeholders effectively. These competencies are essential to ensure research projects are completed on time, within scope, and with scientific rigor.

What is the difference between Research Project vs Research Assistant?

AspectResearch ProjectResearch Assistant
CredentialsVaries; often requires advanced degrees or specialized trainingTypically requires a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field
Work EnvironmentIndependent or team-based research settings, labs, or field sitesSupportive role within research teams, assisting with data collection and analysis
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, government agenciesUniversities, labs, research organizations
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for project scope and responsibilitiesCompared for entry-level research roles and support tasks

The main difference between a Research Project and a Research Assistant is that a Research Project refers to the overall research initiative, often led by principal investigators, while a Research Assistant is a supporting role within that project, assisting with specific tasks. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify job responsibilities and career pathways in research environments.

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

The most popular types of Research Project jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Research Project jobs?

Cities in California with the most Research Project job openings:

Research Project jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Project job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,905 per year, or $40.8 per hour.

Research Lab Assistant

Chapman University

Orange, CA • On-site

$17/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Chapman University rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

265th of 631 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Posting Details
Student Title Classification Information
Quick Link
https://chapman.peopleadmin.com/postings/40925
Job Number
SE233624
Position Information
Department or Unit Name
Environmental Science & Policy
Position Headcount
1
Position Title
Research Lab Assistant
Academic Year
Fall 2026
Term or Semester
Fall
Is this Role for an Undergrad or Grad Student?
Undergrad
Anticipated Pay Range
$17.00 - $17.00
Pay Range Information
Chapman University is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this position. This range takes into account a variety of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. Salary offers are determined based on the final candidate's qualifications and experience, as well as internal equity and other internal factors. The anticipated pay range is not a promise of a particular wage.
On which Campus will this work be done?
Orange
Approved Supervisor
Richelle Tanner
Supervisor Email
rtanner@chapman.edu
Scheduling
Please use dates within Chapman Academic Calendar
(https://www.chapman.edu/academics/academic-calendar.aspx)
Desired Start Date
09/07/2026
Projected End Date
12/01/2026
Average number of hours per week
Up to 19 Hrs
Position Summary Information
Job Description Summary
The Research Lab Assistant supports an ongoing Environmental Science & Policy research project examining professional networks, scientific collaboration, and community culture within the biological sciences. Student researchers will gain hands-on experience with data collection, social network analysis, generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) applications, and scientific research methodologies.
This position offers opportunities to collaborate with faculty researchers and partner organizations, contribute to conference and publication efforts, and develop valuable research, analytical, and professional skills applicable to graduate study and scientific careers. Students may also have the opportunity to collaborate with researchers and professional organizations from partner institutions, participate in collaborative meetings, and contribute to scholarly presentations and peer-reviewed publications. This position is for 10-15 hours per week.
Responsibilities
  • Assist faculty researchers with data collection, organization, and management for ongoing research projects.
  • Apply and evaluate generative AI (GenAI) tools to support research, data processing, and analytical tasks.
  • Conduct literature reviews and summarize scientific publications relevant to project objectives.
  • Assist with coding, categorizing, and analyzing data related to professional networks and scientific communities.
  • Support social network analysis activities and interpretation of research findings.
  • Maintain accurate research records, documentation, and project files.
  • Participate in research meetings and collaborative discussions with faculty, research partners, and fellow student researchers.
  • Assist with preparing presentations, reports, conference materials, and scholarly publications.
  • Contribute to research dissemination efforts, including conference presentations and peer-reviewed manuscripts when appropriate.
  • Collaborate professionally with faculty and external partners from participating institutions and organizations.
  • Perform other research-related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications
  • Assist faculty researchers with data collection, organization, and management for ongoing research projects.
  • Apply and evaluate generative AI (GenAI) tools to support research, data processing, and analytical tasks.
  • Conduct literature reviews and summarize scientific publications relevant to project objectives.
  • Assist with coding, categorizing, and analyzing data related to professional networks and scientific communities.
  • Support social network analysis activities and interpretation of research findings.
  • Maintain accurate research records, documentation, and project files.
  • Participate in research meetings and collaborative discussions with faculty, research partners, and fellow student researchers.
  • Assist with preparing presentations, reports, conference materials, and scholarly publications.
  • Perform other research-related duties as assigned.

Desired Qualifications
  • Coursework in Environmental Science, Biology, Ecology, Statistics, Data Science, Computer Science, or a related discipline.
  • Interest in artificial intelligence, social network analysis, data analytics, or scientific research.
  • Experience working with research projects, datasets, or data management.
  • Interest in scientific communication, publishing, and conference presentations.
  • Desire to pursue graduate education, research, conservation, environmental policy, or related scientific careers.

Special Instructions to Applicants
Budget Information
Is Federal work-study required?
With or Without FWS

What Chapman University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply