1

Social Behavioral Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Social Science Research Lead

Mclean, VA ยท On-site

$90 - $120/hr

This position provides subject matter expertise, scientific leadership, and programmatic support for social, behavioral, and economic sciences (SBES) research that advances NOAA's ability to ...

This position provides subject matter expertise, scientific leadership, and programmatic support for social, behavioral, and economic sciences (SBES) research that advances NOAA's ability to ...

This position provides subject matter expertise, scientific leadership, and programmatic support for social, behavioral, and economic sciences (SBES) research that advances NOAA's ability to ...

This position shall report to the Department Chair of Behavioral/Social Sciences and Human Services at Manchester Community College. ACCOUNTABILITIES: * Assists Department Chair with faculty ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Social Behavioral Science information

See salary details

$31.5K

$50.6K

$68K

How much do social behavioral science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for social behavioral science in the United States is $50,609.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,500.00 and $53,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in social behavioral science roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Social Behavioral Science often encounter challenges such as engaging diverse populations, navigating ethical considerations, and balancing qualitative and quantitative research methods. These roles require strong communication skills to build trust with participants and collaborate effectively with interdisciplinary teams. Staying up to date with evolving research methodologies and ethical guidelines is essential, as is being adaptable to shifting project goals or funding sources. Proactively seeking mentorship, ongoing training, and participating in professional networks can help address these challenges and support career growth.

What jobs are available in social and behavioral science?

Jobs in social and behavioral science include researchers, social workers, public health specialists, mental health consultants, psychologists, and therapists. Your responsibilities and duties differ depending on the type of work you do. For example, if you are a social worker, your tasks include managing a client caseload, assisting your clients to access mental health or behavioral health services, and helping them to fill out applications. A school psychologist, on the other hand, provides psychology services to a public or private school and assists with student assessment and improving access to mental health education. Researchers work at universities, where they conduct studies and help develop new models of behavior and mental health.

What is a social behavioral scientist?

Social behavioral scientists study how people think, feel, and act within societies and groups. They use research and data analysis to understand human behavior, social trends, and the influence of societal structures on individual actions. Their work is used to inform policies, improve organizational practices, and address social issues such as health, education, and inequality. Social behavioral scientists may work in academic, government, nonprofit, or private sector settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a social behavioral scientist?

To thrive as a Social Behavioral Scientist, you need a solid background in psychology, sociology, or related fields, usually supported by an advanced degree and strong research skills. Familiarity with statistical analysis software (such as SPSS or R), survey platforms, and data visualization tools is essential for effective research and reporting. Strong communication, critical thinking, and cultural sensitivity are important soft skills for interpreting complex behaviors and collaborating with diverse populations. These skills and qualities are crucial for designing impactful studies, accurately analyzing social trends, and informing policy or organizational decision-making.

What is the difference between Social Behavioral Science vs Social Work?

AspectSocial Behavioral ScienceSocial Work
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Behavioral Science, Psychology, SociologyBachelor's or Master's in Social Work (BSW, MSW), Licensure often required
Work EnvironmentResearch settings, academia, policy analysisCommunity agencies, hospitals, schools, social service organizations
Industry UsageResearch, policy development, behavioral analysisClient support, case management, advocacy
Common Search IntentUnderstanding behavioral patterns, research rolesHelping individuals and communities, social services

Social Behavioral Science focuses on research, analysis, and understanding human behavior through scientific methods, often in academic or policy settings. Social Work emphasizes direct client interaction, advocacy, and community support, often requiring licensure. While both fields aim to improve societal well-being, their work environments and primary functions differ significantly.

What cities are hiring for Social Behavioral Science jobs? Cities with the most 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 Social Behavioral Science jobs? States with the most job openings for Social Behavioral Science jobs include:
Infographic showing various Social Behavioral Science job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,609 per year, or $24.3 per hour.

Social Science Research Lead

BLN24

Mclean, VA โ€ข On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Social Science Research Lead

Position Overview

BLN24 has an exciting opportunity for a Social Science Research Lead to supportNationalOceanic and Atmospheric Administration. This position provides subject matter expertise, scientific leadership, and programmatic support for social, behavioral, and economic sciences (SBES) research that advances NOAA's ability to understand, communicate, and respond to weather, climate, water, and societal challenges. Working closely with NOAA leadership, researchers, Cooperative Institutes, Federal agencies, and academic partners, this individual will strengthen the integration of social science research into NOAA programs, decision support capabilities, and researchโ€‘toโ€‘operations initiatives.

Key Responsibilities
  • Lead and support SBES research initiatives, portfolio management, and evaluation of funding programs, cooperative agreements, and scientific partnerships that inform NOAA programs, services, and decision support capabilities.
  • Apply qualitative, quantitative, and mixedโ€‘methods research approaches to conduct stakeholder analyses, literature reviews, research syntheses, and program evaluations that identify emerging priorities, research gaps, and opportunities for improvement.
  • Support researchโ€‘toโ€‘operations (R2O) and transitionโ€‘toโ€‘operations (T2O) initiatives by integrating social science findings into operational programs, ensuring compliance with IRB, PRA, and research governance requirements.
  • Coordinate scientific workshops, conferences, stakeholder engagements, and interagency collaborations, and prepare technical reports, white papers, briefing materials, presentations, and stakeholderโ€‘facing products to communicate research findings and program outcomes.
  • Support compliance activities related to Institutional Review Boards (IRB), Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA), and other research governance requirements.
  • Present research findings at scientific conferences, professional society meetings, workshops, and stakeholder forums while contributing to continuous improvement and knowledgeโ€‘sharing initiatives.
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Sociology, Social Science, Behavioral Science, Economics, Public Policy, Communications, Geography, Psychology, or related discipline; Master's degree preferred, PhD highly desirable.
  • Minimum six (6) years of experience conducting, supporting, evaluating, or leading social science, behavioral science, economic, or interdisciplinary research initiatives.
  • Working knowledge of SBES research principles, methodologies, and applications, including experience designing or evaluating qualitative, quantitative, or mixedโ€‘methods research.
  • Experience preparing technical reports, briefing materials, scientific communications, and stakeholderโ€‘facing deliverables, and supporting stakeholder engagement, workshop facilitation, or crossโ€‘organizational initiatives.
  • Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fastโ€‘paced environment.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain required NOAA facility, security, and IT access.
What BLN24 brings to the Game

BLN24 benefits include generous medical, dental, and vision plans. You can join one of the fastest growing companies headquartered in the Washington DC Metro Area, offering opportunities across sectors while maintaining stability. Flexibility allows each individual to balance work and personal life, with remote working opportunities available depending on projects.

BLN24 is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We believe people are our strength and understand diverse talents are key to our success. We are an equal opportunity employer and place a high value on diversity and inclusion at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of any protected attribute, including race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, marital or veteran status, pregnancy or disability, or any other basis protected under applicable law. In accordance with applicable law, we make reasonable accommodations for applicants' and employees' religious practices and beliefs, as well as any mental health or physical disability needs.

#J-18808-Ljbffr