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Social Science Analyst Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The Opportunity Join Adobe as a Growth Data Scientist, Social Marketing, and be part of a world ... You will be at the forefront of analyzing performance, crafting experiments, and translating ...

Why Data Science & Analytics? The Data Science & Analytics organization's mission is to increase ... Roblox is a highly social platform hosting billions of user connections, and we are actively ...

Lead AI and Data Science Engineer II

San Diego, CA · On-site

$108K - $143K/yr

Organizational research and storytelling ground analyses in rigorous social science and clear, decision-oriented narratives. Data science applies statistical analysis, machine learning, and AI to ...

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Social Science Analyst information

See California salary details

$46.9K

$73.9K

$137.2K

How much do social science analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for social science analyst in California is $73,922.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,300.00 and $92,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges social science analysts face when working on interdisciplinary research teams?

Social Science Analysts frequently collaborate with professionals from diverse backgrounds such as economists, statisticians, and policy experts. One common challenge is bridging communication gaps and aligning methodologies, since team members may have different approaches to data analysis and interpretation. Successfully navigating these differences requires strong interpersonal skills and adaptability. Analysts who proactively facilitate open dialogue and foster mutual understanding often find the most success in achieving project goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a social science analyst, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Social Science Analyst, you need strong analytical skills, a background in social science research, and typically a relevant degree such as sociology, economics, or political science. Proficiency in statistical software (like SPSS, Stata, or R), data analysis tools, and sometimes certifications in research methods are commonly required. Excellent written and verbal communication, critical thinking, and collaboration skills help analysts present findings and work effectively with diverse teams. These abilities are essential to accurately interpret complex data and provide insights that inform policy and program decisions.

What is the difference between Social Science Analyst vs Market Research Analyst?

AspectSocial Science AnalystMarket Research Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in social sciences, research methodsBachelor's degree in marketing, business, or social sciences
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, research institutions, think tanksPrivate companies, marketing firms, consulting agencies
Employer & Industry UsagePolicy analysis, social programs, academic researchConsumer insights, product development, advertising
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Social Science Analysts focus on studying societal issues, policies, and behaviors, often working in government or research settings. Market Research Analysts analyze consumer data and market trends to help companies make business decisions. While both roles involve research and data analysis, their industries, goals, and work environments differ significantly.

What does a social science analyst do?

A Social Science Analyst researches, analyzes, and interprets data related to human behavior, society, and social trends. They often work for government agencies, research organizations, or private companies to help inform policy decisions or solve social problems. Their work involves designing studies, collecting and analyzing statistical data, and preparing reports or presentations that communicate their findings to stakeholders. These professionals typically specialize in areas such as economics, sociology, psychology, or public health.

What does a social science analyst do?

A social science analyst is involved with research into major social issues and typically works for government agencies, universities, and nonprofit organizations. As a social science analyst, your main job duties include analyzing data, conducting interviews and surveys, studying physical evidence, and writing reports. Your goal is to develop new findings about the relationship between society, the human condition, and important social issues to help create better solutions to these problems. This career requires an extensive background in social studies, including at least a bachelor’s degree in history, law, sociology, or a related field. Additional qualifications include relevant work experience, as well as strong research and analytical skills.

What are the most commonly searched types of Social Science Analyst jobs in California? The most popular types of Social Science Analyst jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Social Science Analyst jobs in California? For Social Science Analyst jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Social Science Analyst jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Social Science Analyst jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Social Science Analyst jobs? Cities in California with the most Social Science Analyst job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Social Science Analyst jobs in CA? For Social Science Analyst jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Social Science Analyst job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 50% Hybrid, and 50% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,922 per year, or $35.5 per hour.

Supervisory Social Science Analyst

Office of Inspector General

San Francisco, CA • On-site, Remote

$150K - $197K/yr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Summary
This position is located in the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, Office of Evaluation and Inspections.
Resumes must be no more than 2-pages in length.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
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This position is located in the Office of Evaluations and Inspections (OEI)/Headquarters or Regional Offices. Duties are at the GS-15 level, and include but are not limited to the following;
  • Ensure that OEI as an evaluation organization and our evaluation reports meet CIGIE, OIG, and OEI quality standards and effectively drive positive change in HHS programs.
  • Maintain deep expertise in all aspects of planning, designing, and executing high-quality and high-impact evaluations and inspections of HHS programs.
  • Develop and oversee procedures, processes, and tools to support the quality and impact of OEI's evaluation work.
  • Supervise staff who are responsible for tasks related to: ensuring that all evaluation and inspection of public products are statistically and editorially accurate, optimizing OEI evaluation procedures and ensuring they meet CIGIE standards, and advancing OEI's data and analytic capabilities and other core competencies.
  • In consultation with OEI leadership, identify and prioritize OEI's organizational needs and lead initiatives to advance organizational excellence and the quality of our work.

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • U.S Citizenship is required.
  • Registration with the Selective Service (if applicable).
  • Suitability for Federal employment determined by background investigation.
  • One-year probationary period may be required.
  • Time in grade must be met within 30 days of closing date of announcement.

Qualifications
Applicants must meet all the qualification requirements, including education, and any selective placement factors described below within 30 days of the closing date of this announcement.
Education used as part of an application package will only be considered if complete transcripts are submitted and must be from an accredited institution as recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. To see if your institution is accredited, please follow this link: http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/Search.aspx
Positive Education Requirement: This position has a position education requirement, as indicated below. A complete transcript showing relevant coursework and degrees must be submitted with your application package. A list of completed courses or incomplete transcripts will not be accepted.
Basic Requirements:
  • Applicants must have completed a 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor's or higher degree in a behavioral or social science; or related discipline appropriate to this position (must submit copy of unofficial transcripts) OR;
  • Must have 4 years of appropriate experience that demonstrates you have acquired knowledge of one or more of the behavioral or social sciences equivalent to a major in the field OR;
  • Must have a combination of the education and experience described above (must submit a copy of unofficial transcripts)

Applicants must have 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level in the Federal service which provided the applicant with the knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the duties of the position.
Qualifying specialized experience must demonstrate the following: 1.) overseeing the planning, designing, and executing of high-quality and high-impact evaluations of Federal HHS programs; 2.) experience developing and/or overseeing procedures, processes, and tools to ensure compliance with the Quality Standards for Inspection and Evaluation issued in 2020 by the Council of the Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency (CIGIE); and 3.) leading initiatives to advance the excellence and impact of an evaluation organization.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Your resume should include the dates of all qualifying experience (from month/year to month/year) and the number of hours worked/volunteered per week. Federal experience is not required. The experience may have been gained in the public sector, private sector or Volunteer Service. One year of experience refers to full-time work; part-timework is considered on a prorated basis. To ensure full credit for your work experience, please indicate dates of employment by month/year, and indicate number of hours worked per week, on your resume.
Education
Foreign Education: Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet education requirements if you can show that the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying.
Additional information
Recruitment Incentives: Payment for relocation expenses are not authorized for this position. A recruitment bonus is not offered. Repayment of student loans are not offered. Private sector work experience is not offered as credit for your Annual Leave accrual.
Security and Background Requirements: A background security investigation will be required for all appointees. Appointment will be subject to the applicant's successful completion of a background security investigation and favorable adjudication. Failure to successfully meet these requirements may be grounds for appropriate personnel action. In addition, if hired, a background security reinvestigation or supplemental investigation may be required at a later time. Applicants are also advised that all information concerning qualifications is subject to investigation. False representation may be grounds for non-consideration, non-selection and/or appropriate disciplinary action.
E-Verify: If you are selected for this position, the documentation that you present for purposes of completing the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Form I-9 will be verified through the DHS "E-Verify" System. Federal law requires DHS to use the E-Verify System to verify employment eligibility of all new hires, and as a condition of continued employment obligates the new hire to take affirmative steps to resolve any discrepancies identified by the system. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is an E-Verify Participant.
Direct Deposit: All Federal employees are required to have Federal salary payments made by direct deposit to a financial institution of their choosing.
EEO Statement: HHS is an equal opportunity employer. Selection for this position will be based solely on merit without regard to race, color, religion, age, gender, national origin, political affiliation, disability, sexual orientation, marital or family status, or other differences.
Disabled Veteran Leave: HHS OIG participates in the Wounded Warrior Federal Leave Act of 2015. To learn more about this benefit, please go to: Disabled Veteran Leave (opm.gov).
Fair Chance to Compete for Jobs Act ("Fair Chance Act"): The Fair Chance to Compete for Jobs Act (FCA) prohibits federal agencies from requesting an applicant's criminal history record prior to extending a conditional offer of employment. In accordance with 5 U.S. Code § 9202(c) and 5 C.F.R § 920.201 certain positions are exempt from the provisions of the FCA. Applicants who believe they have been subjected to a violation of the FCA may submit a written complaint to the Department by email at FairChanceAct@hhs.gov.
HHS has a critical preparedness and response mission: HHS protects the American people from health threats, researches emerging diseases, and mobilizes public health programs with domestic and international partners. In support of this mission, HHS offers its employees the opportunity to volunteer to become Federal Civilian Detailees and contribute their unique skills through voluntary temporary assignments to humanitarian emergencies or Departmental priorities countering new and emerging health, safety, and security threats.
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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Review our benefits
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.