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Senior Social Behavioral Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Parsons is looking for an amazingly talented Sr. Social Scientist to join our team ... In this role you will get to apply social and behavioral science expertise to support Operations in ...

$88K - $154K/yr

Parsons is looking for an amazingly talented Sr. Social Scientist to join our team ... In this role you will get to apply social and behavioral science expertise to support Operations in ...

Senior Social Scientist

Miami, FL · On-site

$88K - $154K/yr

Parsons is looking for an amazingly talented Sr. Social Scientist to join our team ... In this role you will get to apply social and behavioral science expertise to support Operations in ...

Senior Social Scientist

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$88K - $154K/yr

Parsons is looking for an amazingly talented Sr. Social Scientist to join our team ... In this role you will get to apply social and behavioral science expertise to support Operations in ...

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Senior Social Behavioral Science information

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$25K

$80.3K

$163.5K

How much do senior social behavioral science jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior social behavioral science in the United States is $80,287.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,500.00 and $103,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Senior Social Behavioral Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Social Behavioral Scientist, you need advanced expertise in behavioral science, research methodology, data analysis, and typically a graduate degree in psychology, sociology, or a related field. Proficiency with statistical software such as SPSS, R, or Python, and experience with qualitative and quantitative research tools are commonly required. Strong critical thinking, communication, and leadership skills help drive impactful studies and effective collaboration with multidisciplinary teams. These skills are crucial for designing robust research, interpreting complex data, and translating insights into actionable strategies for organizations or public policy.

What is the difference between Senior Social Behavioral Science vs Social and Behavioral Science Specialist?

AspectSenior Social Behavioral ScienceSocial and Behavioral Science Specialist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in social sciences, often with experienceBachelor's or Master's in social sciences, entry to mid-level experience
Work EnvironmentResearch teams, government agencies, consulting firmsResearch projects, data analysis, community programs
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment, academia, private sectorNonprofits, research institutions, healthcare

The main difference is that Senior Social Behavioral Science roles typically require more experience and involve leading projects, while Social and Behavioral Science Specialists focus on supporting research and analysis at an entry or mid-level. Both roles work within similar environments and industries, but the senior position emphasizes leadership and strategic planning.

What can you do with a behavioral and social science degree?

A behavioral and social science degree prepares individuals for roles such as senior social behavioral scientists, where they analyze human behavior, develop interventions, and inform policy. Graduates can work in research, healthcare, education, or government agencies, often utilizing data analysis tools and research methodologies.

What is the highest paying job in social science?

In social science, senior roles such as Senior Social Behavioral Scientist or Behavioral Science Director tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures annually. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and expertise in research methods, data analysis, and behavioral modeling.

What does a Senior Social Behavioral Scientist do?

A Senior Social Behavioral Scientist studies how people think, feel, and behave individually and within groups, using scientific research methods. They often design and lead research projects, analyze data, and provide insights to help organizations or policymakers understand and influence human behavior. Their work can span areas like public health, marketing, education, or policy development. As a senior professional, they may also mentor junior staff and contribute to strategic planning. Their expertise helps shape interventions, programs, and strategies that address complex social issues.

Can you make $200,000 as a social worker?

Senior social behavioral science roles typically do not reach $200,000 annually, as social workers generally earn lower salaries. However, advanced positions, management roles, or specialized fields within social work can offer higher compensation, especially with extensive experience and certifications. Achieving a $200,000 salary may require transitioning into related fields such as healthcare administration or consulting.

How do Senior Social Behavioral Scientists typically collaborate with cross-functional teams in their daily work?

Senior Social Behavioral Scientists often work closely with professionals from diverse backgrounds such as data analysts, product managers, and designers. Their role involves translating behavioral science theories into actionable insights and designing interventions or studies to inform product development or policy. Effective collaboration requires clear communication of complex concepts, alignment on research goals, and adaptability to evolving project needs. This teamwork not only enriches the research process but also ensures that behavioral insights are practically integrated into organizational strategies.

What is the highest paying job in behavioral health?

In behavioral health, senior roles such as Clinical Director or Behavioral Health Executive typically have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures. These positions require extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership skills, and they often involve overseeing multiple programs or teams within healthcare organizations.
What cities are hiring for Senior Social Behavioral Science jobs? Cities with the most Senior Social Behavioral Science job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Social Behavioral Science jobs? The most popular types of Social Behavioral Science jobs are:
What states have the most Senior Social Behavioral Science jobs? States with the most job openings for Senior Social Behavioral Science jobs include:
Senior Social Scientist

Senior Social Scientist

Parsons

Colorado Springs, CO

$88K - $154K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Parsons rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 44 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

155th of 352 rated engineering


Job description

In a world of possibilities, pursue one with endless opportunities. Imagine Next!At Parsons, you can imagine a career where you thrive, work with exceptional people, and be yourself. Guided by our leadership vision of valuing people, embracing agility, and fostering growth, we cultivate an innovative culture that empowers you to achieve your full potential. Unleash your talent and redefine what's possible.

Job Description:

Parsons is looking for an amazingly talented Sr. Social Scientist to join our team! In this role you will get to apply social and behavioral science expertise to support Operations in the Information Environment (OIE) and Irregular Warfare (IW) by analyzing the cultural, psychological, and social dynamics that shape how audiences perceive, interpret, and respond to information and actions.

What You'll Be Doing:

  • Provides behaviorally grounded insight that informs planning, execution, and assessment across J39 activities.

  • Designs and conducts qualitative and quantitative research-including surveys, interviews, focus groups, and social network analysis-to develop a nuanced understanding of target audiences, group dynamics, identity drivers, and influence pathways relevant to mission objectives.

  • Translates research findings into operationally actionable insights that support Target Audience Analysis (TAA), COA development, narrative design, and risk assessment.

  • Collaborates closely with planners, analysts, behavioral scientists, content developers, and assessment teams to ensure OIE plans, messaging, and influence approaches are culturally informed, behaviorally realistic, and ethically sound.

  • Advises on cultural resonance, social norms, and potential unintended effects, helping mitigate risk and improve campaign effectiveness.

  • Supports the development of assessment frameworks by identifying behaviorally valid indicators and proxies, interpreting results in context, and contributing to lessons learned and plan adaptation.

  • Ensures research methods and findings are rigorous, transparent, and compliant with applicable authorities and ethical standards, preserving commander trust and analytic credibility.

What Required Skills You'll Bring:

  • Bachelors degree and 13+ years experience. Years of comparable experience can be used in lieu of degree. (HS diploma 17+ years, Associates 15+ years, Masters 10+ years)
  • Must have a current/active TS/SCI clearance or higher

Security Clearance Requirement:

An active Top Secret SCI security clearance is required for this position.This position is part of our Federal Solutions team.The Federal Solutions segment delivers resources to our US government customers that ensure the success of missions around the globe. Our intelligent employees drive the state of the art as they provide services and solutions in the areas of defense, security, intelligence, infrastructure, and environmental. We promote a culture of excellence and close-knit teams that take pride in delivering, protecting, and sustaining our nation's most critical assets, from Earth to cyberspace. Throughout the company, our people are anticipating what's next to deliver the solutions our customers need now.Salary Range: $88,400.00 - $154,700.00We value our employees and want our employees to take care of their overall wellbeing, which is why we offer best-in-class benefits such as medical, dental, vision, paid time off, 401(k), life insurance, flexible work schedules, and holidays to fit your busy lifestyle!This position will be posted for a minimum of 3 days and will continue to be posted for an average of 30 days until a qualified applicant is selected or the position has been cancelled.Parsons is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status or any other protected status.We truly invest and care about our employee's wellbeing and provide endless growth opportunities as the sky is the limit, so aim for the stars! Imagine next and join the Parsons quest-APPLY TODAY!

Parsons is aware of fraudulent recruitment practices. To learn more about recruitment fraud and how to report it, please refer tohttps://www.parsons.com/fraudulent-recruitment/.


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