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Research Project Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

TAP Engineering

Research Project Manager

College Park, MD · On-site

$125K - $140K/yr

Research Project Manager TAP Engineering | College Park, MD | Full Time Clearance Required: Must be eligible to obtain a TS/SCI with Polygraph | Experience: 7+ Years | Compensation: $125,000 - $140 ...

The Swift Group, LLC

Research Project Manager

College Park, MD · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

They are seeking a Research Project Manager to oversee contract performance and serve as the primary interface between government stakeholders and internal teams. Responsibilities : • Serve as the ...

The University of Chicago

Research Manager

Washington, DC · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

Job Summary The job manages scientific research projects or scientific research facilities. Uses considerable on-the-job experience to ensure compliance of research activities with institutional ...

Inova Primary Care

Research Assistant

Fairfax, VA

$19.75 - $27/hr

Performs administrative functions in order to support the accomplishments of research/project objectives. Duties and Responsibilities: * Assists in baseline study enrollment, specimen collection ...

Inova

Research Assistant

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$21.49 - $35.03/hr

Performs administrative functions in order to support the accomplishments of research/project objectives. Duties and Responsibilities: * Assists in baseline study enrollment, specimen collection ...

Hatalom

Research Assistant - MCU/CDET

Quantico, VA · On-site

$20.75 - $28.50/hr

Support research projects by gathering, organizing, and analyzing data from primary and secondary sources. * Conduct literature reviews to identify relevant studies, articles, and publications ...

Hatalom

Research Assistant - MCU/CDET

Quantico, VA · On-site

$20.75 - $28.50/hr

Support research projects by gathering, organizing, and analyzing data from primary and secondary sources. * Conduct literature reviews to identify relevant studies, articles, and publications ...

Hatalom

Research Assistant - MCU/CDET

Quantico, VA

$20.75 - $28.50/hr

Support research projects by gathering, organizing, and analyzing data from primary and secondary sources. * Conduct literature reviews toidentifyrelevant studies, articles, and publications related ...

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All JobsResearch Project JobsResearch Project Jobs in Washington, DC

Research Project information

See Washington, DC salary details

$56.6K

$97.4K

$149.5K

How much do research project jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for research project in Washington, DC is $97,439.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,000.00 and $103,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Research Project jobs in Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Research Project jobs in Washington, DC are:

Research Project jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Project job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,439 per year, or $46.8 per hour.

Research Project Manager

TAP Engineering

College Park, MD • On-site

$125K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Research Project Manager
TAP Engineering | College Park, MD | Full Time
Clearance Required: Must be eligible to obtain a TS/SCI with Polygraph  |  Experience: 7+ Years  |  Compensation: $125,000 – $140,000Position OverviewTAP Engineering is seeking a Research Project Manager to support leading-edge research and engineering initiatives across the physical sciences, including quantum computing, advanced computing systems, additive manufacturing, photonics, advanced materials, and microelectronics. This program supports a government research lab, and as a contractor, TAP is responsible for providing world-class research scientists, engineers, technicians, and support staff to drive advancements that directly support national security.
In this role, you will support Government Research Scientists (Principal Investigators) in managing a technically diverse and geographically dispersed portfolio of research projects in partnership with academia and industry. The ideal candidate will bring a strong combination of technical expertise and project management experience.Key Responsibilities
  • Develop, document, and flow down project requirements, both technical and programmatic in nature
  • Develop and modify technical Statements of Work
  • Develop, document, monitor, and report on research project plans, including cost, schedule, risk, and resource management, in coordination with research teams
  • Develop and analyze forecasts covering technical performance, cost, and schedule, as well as overall project performance data
  • Support logistics, planning, and coordination for meetings, workshops, technical seminars, and conferences
  • Prepare, coordinate, and present monthly project status reviews to executive leadership
  • Participate in cross-disciplinary Government/Contractor teams to assess and respond to urgent or unexpected project issues related to cost, schedule, and technical performance
Required Qualifications
  • Must be eligible to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI security clearance with Polygraph (U.S. Citizenship required)
  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Science, Management, or a related discipline
  • 5+ years of experience as a project or program manager, with demonstrated experience in:
  • Requirements analysis and resource allocation
  • Project costing and deliverable tracking
  • Schedule and financial data monitoring and reporting
  • Demonstrated technical knowledge in one or more of the following areas:
  • Advanced Computing Systems (Computer Science, AI/ML, FPGA)
  • Quantum Computing, Information Science, or Sensing
  • RF, Optics, or Photonics
  • Additive Manufacturing or Microelectronics
Benefits OverviewTAP Engineering offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support the whole employee:
  • Paid Time Off: 15–25 days annually based on tenure, plus 11 paid holidays — never use-or-lose
  • Retirement: Up to 15% employer contribution to a 401(k) through match and profit sharing
  • Medical Coverage: Employer-paid medical insurance for employees, with optional buy-up plans for dependents
  • Dental & Vision: Employer-paid plans with optional enhancements
  • Insurance: Employer-paid life insurance, AD&D, short-term disability, and long-term disability
  • Flexible Spending Accounts: Healthcare and dependent care FSAs
  • Tuition Reimbursement: Up to $36,000 per year for approved coursework
  • Additional Benefits: Employee Assistance Program, wellness incentives, discount programs, virtual care, prescription savings, and travel support
  • Performance-Based Rewards: Merit increases, performance bonuses, and referral bonuses
Clearance RequirementThis position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret/SCI security clearance with Polygraph, based on a Single Scope Background Investigation (SSBI/SBI). U.S. citizenship is required. Clearance and polygraph processing will be completed by the U.S. Government.
Factors considered for clearance eligibility include, but are not limited to:
  • U.S. citizenship
  • Favorable criminal history review
  • Education verification
  • Drug and substance use review
  • Credit history review
  • Subject interview
Additional InformationBy submitting your resume for this position, you acknowledge and agree that TAP Engineering may share your resume and related application materials with its subsidiaries and affiliated companies for consideration for other available positions.
TAP Engineering is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by law.

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