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Social Behavioral Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

County of Nevada, CA

Social Worker I

Nevada City, CA · On-site

$61K - $74K/yr

OR Bachelor of Arts or Science degree from an accredited college or university in social or behavioral sciences, sociology, social work, public health, psychology, gerontology or a related degree.

Parsons

Senior Social Scientist

Miami, FL

$88K - $154K/yr

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 ...

Parsons

Senior Social Scientist

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$88K - $154K/yr

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 ...

Parsons

Senior Social Scientist

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$88K - $154K/yr

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 ...

Parsons

$88K - $154K/yr

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 ...

CalHR

Social Services Aide

Sacramento, CA

$18.87 - $19.81/hr

Examples of social or behavioral science courses include: anthropology, criminal justice, economics, education, ethnic studies, history, human development, law, nursing, nutrition, philosophy ...

CalHR

Social Service Aide

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$24.41 - $29.67/hr

Examples of social or behavioral science courses include: anthropology, criminal justice, economics, education, ethnic studies, history, human development, law, nursing, nutrition, philosophy ...

CalHR

Social Services Aide (MSS)

Sacramento, CA · On-site

Examples of social or behavioral science courses include: anthropology, criminal justice, economics, education, ethnic studies, history, human development, law, nursing, nutrition, philosophy ...

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All JobsSocial Behavioral Science Jobs

Social Behavioral Science information

See salary details

$31.5K

$50.6K

$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.
Behavioral Scientist with Security Clearance

Behavioral Scientist with Security Clearance

PKH Enterprises

Washington, DC • On-site

Other

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Behavioral Scientist/Social Scientist *Contingent upon award Seeking an experienced Behavioral Scientist for our insider threat operational requirements on a mission-focused program within a challenging, dynamic setting located in downtown Washington DC. Successful candidate in this position will conduct behavioral research and assessments with the goal of informing the development of insider threat and security policies and procedures within a government agency. The Scientist may, among other tasks, be expected to conduct interviews, pilot studies, surveys, case studies, and program evaluations; develop metrics; analyze qualitative and quantitative data; and manage research projects. Responsibilities Provide psychological services to include participation in meetings and briefings for specific mission-related initiatives.
Prepare and conduct behavioral assessments.
Assist in identifying a source’s key personality traits, sources of social and professional influence, psychological strengths, and vulnerabilities.
Provide expertise in managing and testing of sources.
Integrate knowledge of a source’s background and personality into a formal written operational/behavioral assessment.
Make appropriate recommendations in challenging, ambiguous or emergency situations to facilitate the government’s decision-making process.
Be able to assess a source’s integrity and competence in the context of past behavior and current behavior. Requirements: Must be able to maintain a security clearance.
Candidates should have the ability to work independently on their assigned topics, develop appropriate project timelines, lead well-organized meetings and briefings.
Experience with working in the Intelligence Community.
Possess knowledge and practice of applied behavior analysis.
Ability to integrate knowledge of a source’s background and personality into a formal written operational/behavioral assessment.
Experience working with relevant source and case files, to include utilization of advanced source vetting and validating tools.
Experience working with sources and expertise in assessing a source’s psychological strengths and vulnerabilities.
Experience working with analysts to provide time-dominant, science-based, direct and indirect psychological assessments based on displayed indicators and human factors.
Experience with writing and briefing.
Candidates must be able to work with multiple IC agencies and entities both within and outside of the agency.
Master’s Degree or a Doctoral degree from an accredited college/university with specialization in behavioral psychology OR social sciences, along with 10 – 13 years of prior relevant experience. Preferred qualification: Knowledge of topics like counterintelligence, personnel security and/or insider threats.
PhD in Psychology or Social Science or Behavioral Science.

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