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Social Behavioral Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

BLN24

Social Science Research Lead

Mclean, VA · On-site

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 ...

BLN24

Social Science Research Lead

Mclean, VA · On-site

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 ...

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Community College System of New Hampshire

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 ...

Ascendancy Group LTD

Behavioral Scientist

Tampa, FL · On-site

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in behavioral science, psychology, or a related ... Conducts behavioral analysis of target audiences to identify psychological, cultural, and social ...

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The Ascendancy Group

Behavioral Scientist

Tampa, FL · On-site

$33.25 - $41.75/hr

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in behavioral science, psychology, or a related ... Conducts behavioral analysis of target audiences to identify psychological, cultural, and social ...

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Social Behavioral Science information

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$31.5K

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$68K

How much do social behavioral science jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 2, 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 Are Jobs 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 the highest paying job in social science?

In social behavioral science, high-paying roles include senior research scientists, behavioral data scientists, and policy directors, often requiring advanced degrees and specialized skills. These positions can offer salaries exceeding $100,000 annually, especially in government agencies, consulting firms, or large organizations.

What are social behavioral scientists?

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, and why are they important?

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.

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

Social behavioral scientists and social workers typically earn less than $200,000 annually, with salaries varying based on experience, specialization, location, and work setting. High-paying roles may be found in management, research, or consulting positions, often requiring advanced degrees and specialized skills. Achieving a $200,000 salary generally involves senior-level roles or private sector opportunities beyond standard social work positions.

What is a career in behavioral science?

A career in behavioral science involves studying human behavior and applying psychological and social principles to understand and influence actions. Professionals in this field often work in research, policy development, or consulting, utilizing data analysis and behavioral theories to solve real-world problems. Skills in research methods, data analysis, and understanding of social systems are essential for success in this career.
More about Social Behavioral Science jobs
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:
What job categories do people searching Social Behavioral Science jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Social Behavioral Science jobs are:
Social Behavioral Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Social Behavioral Science job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,609 per year, or $24.3 per hour.
Assistant Professor of Public Health in Social Behavioral Sciences / Health Behavior / Health Promot

Assistant Professor of Public Health in Social Behavioral Sciences / Health Behavior / Health Promot

Old Dominion University

Norfolk, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Old Dominion University rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

268th of 544 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Posting Details
Posting Details
Job Title
Assistant Professor of Public Health in Social Behavioral Sciences / Health Behavior / Health Promotion (Tenure-Track, #F0421A)
Department
COMM & ENVIRON HEALTH
Position Number
F0421A
Job Description
The Department of Health Behavior, Policy, and Management at Old Dominion University invites applicants for an Assistant Professor of Social Behavioral Sciences / Health Behavior & Health Promotion to begin January 2027. This is a 10-month, full-time, tenure-track appointment. The faculty member will hold primary teaching responsibilities for the Master of Public Health (MPH) and Ph.D. in Health Services Research programs. Incoming faculty will be expected to maintain an active program of research, teaching, and service. This position reports to the Chair of the Department of Health Behavior, Policy and Management within the ODU-NSU Joint School of Public Health (https://www.odu.edu/public-health), which is a growing, diverse, and multidisciplinary environment committed to public health research, teaching, service, and practice. The faculty member in this role will be expected to teach courses in social-behavioral sciences and related areas, mentor graduate students, develop and maintain an active independent research program, pursue external research funding, and contribute to the mission and programs of the ODU-NSU Joint School of Public Health through departmental, school, and university service, as well as through professional service and community service/engagement. The candidate is required to have excellent oral and written communication skills and a demonstrated ability to collaborate/work with others.
Job Description: Applicants must have evidence of, or strong capabilities to conduct high-quality, significant, and innovative research, to secure extramural funding to establish an independent research program; to effectively teach, and to contribute to university, professional, and community service.
Responsibilities:
Teaching: Effectively teach graduate-level courses in social and behavioral sciences (health behavior and health promotion) and related areas in public health within the MPH and Ph.D. in Health Services Research programs primarily.
Research: Develop, establish, and maintain an active program of scholarly public health research in social-behavioral sciences, including publishing peer-reviewed publications, pursuing external research funding, and mentoring students in research.
Service: Participate in, and contribute to, departmental, school, and university service, including mentoring students and serving on committees; in professional service, and in community service/engagement in public health.
Position Type
FullTime
Type of Recruitment
General Public
Type of Recruitment
General Public
Minimum required education and/or special licenses, registrations, trainings, or certifications
Earned terminal doctoral degree (PhD, ScD, or DrPH) in social and behavioral sciences or health behavior and health promotion in public health, or a comparable/closely related discipline from an accredited program, school, or institution.
Minimum required level and type of experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities
  1. Demonstrated ability to teach graduate-level courses in social-behavioral sciences (health behavior and health promotion) or a closely related public health area.
  2. Demonstrated research/scholarly productivity in public health, including a record of, or strong potential for, publications in peer-reviewed indexed journals, research independence, and extramural research funding appropriate to career stage.
  3. Demonstrated ability to develop, establish, and maintain an independent research program.
  4. Excellent oral and written communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications
  • An earned doctorate in social/behavioral sciences (health behavior and health promotion) from a CEPH-accredited public health program, school, or institution.
  • Post-doctoral public health training/experience related to this position.
  • Evidence of high-quality public health research, including first-authored peer-reviewed publications and extramural grant funding.
  • Experience advising and mentoring graduate students in public health, including in research.
  • Evidence of effective graduate teaching (including course development) related to this position (e.g., social-behavioral sciences or closely related public health/research areas).
  • Experience teaching in a variety of delivery formats, including asynchronous online teaching
  • Evidence of public health experience related to this position.
  • Demonstrated ability to conduct interdisciplinary research and cross-disciplinary collaboration.

Conditions of Employment
Location
Norfolk, VA
Job Open Date
01/01/2027
Application Review Date
09/01/2026
Open Until Filled
Yes
Application Instructions
How to Apply: Interested candidates must apply at https://jobs.odu.edu/postings/25743and attach the following to their online application:
  1. A cover letter detailing their interest in the position and relevant qualifications.
  2. A curriculum vitae;
  3. A Teaching philosophy.
  4. A statement of research interests.
  5. Unofficial graduate transcripts.
  6. Contact information for 3 professional references.

Applications should be submitted by September 01, 2026, for full consideration. The position will remain open until it is filled.
Please direct any questions about the position to the search committee chair, Dr. Mariana Szklo-Coxe (mszklo@odu.edu).
Telework Friendly
No
Reasonable Accommodation Request
If you are an individual with a disability and require reasonable accommodation, please contact the Division of Talent Management and Culture at (757)683-3141.
Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or © consistent with contractor's legal duty to furnish information.
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