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Social Science Research Assistant Jobs in Minnesota

Research Assistant

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$21.84 - $30.83/hr

The Research Assistant collects, abstracts, reviews, compiles, and enters data into various ... Some college coursework in computer science, research design and statistics. * Statistical software ...

Research Assistant - Spinal Cord Injury

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$20 - $27.75/hr

POSITION SUMMARY: The Research Assistant will contribute to research operations, community ... Contributes to the lab's social media presence, newsletter, and website content * Assists with ...

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Social Science Research Assistant information

See Minnesota salary details

$14

$23

$31

How much do social science research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for social science research assistant in Minnesota is $23.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.97 and $30.34 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a social science research assistant?

A social science research assistant helps a head researcher set up and carry out experiments or studies designed to gain data about a population. As a social science research assistant, your duties include recruiting subjects for the study, providing data quality control, and performing initial analysis after the study is complete. Qualifications for this career include a bachelor’s degree in the social sciences, such as in psychology, sociology, or political science. You must have experience with research design and excellent analytical skills. Social science research assistant is an excellent job for graduate students looking to gain experience in the field.

What types of projects do social science research assistants typically work on, and how do they contribute to the research process?

Social Science Research Assistants often support a variety of projects, such as surveys, interviews, literature reviews, or data analysis in areas like psychology, sociology, or public policy. They play a key role by collecting and organizing data, preparing materials, and sometimes conducting preliminary data analysis. Their contributions are essential for ensuring that research is accurate, well-documented, and progresses on schedule. The work is usually team-based, offering regular opportunities to collaborate with lead researchers, faculty, and other assistants.

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

To thrive as a Social Science Research Assistant, you typically need a background in social sciences, research methodology, and data analysis, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with statistical software (such as SPSS, R, or NVivo), survey tools, and literature databases is important for managing and analyzing research data. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication help you support research projects and collaborate with team members. These skills and qualities are essential for ensuring the accuracy, reliability, and successful completion of research studies.

What is the difference between Social Science Research Assistant vs Data Analyst?

AspectSocial Science Research AssistantData Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in social sciences or related field; research experienceBachelor's degree in statistics, mathematics, or related field; analytical skills
Work EnvironmentResearch projects, academic or government settingsBusiness, finance, or tech industries; office environment
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, government agenciesCorporations, consulting firms, data-driven organizations
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for research roles in social sciencesCompared for data analysis roles in various sectors

The main difference is that Social Science Research Assistants focus on supporting social science research projects, often involving data collection and analysis within academic or government settings. Data Analysts primarily interpret data to inform business decisions in corporate environments. Both roles require analytical skills and relevant degrees but differ in industry focus and daily tasks.

What are the most commonly searched types of Social Science Research jobs in Minnesota?

The most popular types of Social Science Research jobs in Minnesota are:

What are popular job titles related to Social Science Research Assistant jobs in Minnesota?

For Social Science Research Assistant jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Social Science Research Assistant jobs in Minnesota look for?

The top searched job categories for Social Science Research Assistant jobs in Minnesota are:

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Social Science Research Assistant jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Social Science Research Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Social Science Research Assistant job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,774 per year, or $23.9 per hour.

Research Assistant

Minneapolis, MN

University of Minnesota
Education • 10K+ employees

$25/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

About the Job
 

Responsibilities:
50% Data collection and management
Conduct structured interviews with youth and caregivers
Clean transcripts
Maintain and assist with organization of project files as needed, help with screening and recruitment of participants
50% Data analyses
Code qualitative interviews
Collaborate with research team members regarding data analyses

Qualifications
 

All required qualifications must be included in the application materials

Required:
BA/BS in social sciences, gender studies, or related field
Prior experience with qualitative interviewing and/or clinical interviewing 
Prior experiencing working with adolescents in an clinical, education, or research capacity
Preferred:
Prior experience with qualitative research methods (i.e., thematic analyses)
Prior experience working within a social sciences research lab or related topic areas. 

Pay and Benefits
 

Pay Range:$25.00per hour depending on education/qualifications/experience.


Retirement plan options are available for Civil Service, Faculty, Labor-Represented, Professional & Administrative, and Temp Casual classifications.  Learn more about retirement plans.

How To Apply
 

Applications must be submitted online.  To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions.  You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail jobcentr@umn.edu.

Diversity
 

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission.  The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.  To learn more about diversity at the U:  http://diversity.umn.edu

Employment Requirements
 

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

About University of Minnesota
 

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023, 2025, 2026), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.