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Social Science Research Associate Jobs in California

Moffitt

Research Associate I

West Covina, CA · On-site

$19.65 - $29.94/hr

Summary The Research Associate I assumes the responsibility of performing basic, biological, behavioral, social science or public health research within the specified research program. The Research ...

Lancesoft INC

Research Associate

Foster City, CA · On-site

$36 - $39.85/hr

Research Associate - I Location: Foster City, CA Duration: 6+ months contract Pay rate: $39.85/hr ... Communicate effectively with scientists, laboratory staff, vendors, and cross-functional ...

AcuraStem

Research associate

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

At AcuraStem we value scientific excellence, results, persistence, details, teamwork, good decision-making, and continuous learning. We are seeking a research associate who is skilled and well ...

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All JobsSocial Science Research Associate JobsSocial Science Research Associate Jobs in California

Social Science Research Associate information

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$14

$24

$32

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

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for social science research associate in California is $24.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.45 and $31.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a social science research associate?

Social Science Research Associates support the design, implementation, and analysis of research projects in fields like psychology, sociology, economics, and political science. They assist lead researchers by collecting data, conducting literature reviews, running statistical analyses, and preparing reports or presentations. Their work helps advance knowledge on social issues and informs policy decisions. These professionals usually work in academic institutions, government agencies, or private research organizations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a social science research associate?

To thrive as a Social Science Research Associate, you need a solid background in social science research methods, data analysis, and typically at least a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a relevant field. Proficiency with statistical software such as SPSS, R, or Stata and familiarity with survey platforms or qualitative analysis tools are often required. Strong communication, critical thinking, and organizational skills help you collaborate effectively and manage complex research projects. These skills ensure accurate data collection and analysis, as well as the effective dissemination of research findings to stakeholders.

What are some common challenges social science research associates encounter when managing multiple projects simultaneously?

Social Science Research Associates often juggle several projects at once, which can present challenges such as balancing competing deadlines, coordinating with diverse research teams, and ensuring data quality across studies. Effective time management and clear communication are essential to meet deliverables and maintain project integrity. Additionally, adapting to shifting research priorities or methodologies requires flexibility and collaboration with principal investigators and other stakeholders.

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

AspectSocial Science Research AssociateResearch Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in social sciences, research experienceBachelor's or Master's in related fields, analytical skills
Work EnvironmentAcademic, government, or nonprofit research settingsCorporate, consulting, or market research firms
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, think tanks, NGOsBusinesses, market research companies, financial firms
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The Social Science Research Associate typically works in academic or nonprofit settings focusing on social research projects, requiring social science backgrounds. Research Analysts often work in corporate or market environments analyzing data for business insights. While both roles involve research skills, their industries and focus areas differ, making this comparison useful for those exploring career options or job opportunities.

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Social Science Research Associate jobs in California?

For Social Science Research Associate jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Social Science Research Associate jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Social Science Research Associate jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Social Science Research Associate jobs?

Cities in California with the most Social Science Research Associate job openings:

Social Science Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Social Science Research Associate job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,149 per year, or $24.6 per hour.

Research Associate

San Diego, CA • Hybrid

Odyssey Systems Consulting Group, Ltd.
Public Administration • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Odyssey Systems Consulting Group, Ltd.external

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Position Summary

Odyssey is looking for a Research Associate to support the Traumatic Brain Injury Center of Excellence (TBICoE), to  support the execution of clinical research efforts under the supervision of the project lead(s). In this role, you will participate in aspects of research including but not limited to recruiting and consenting participants in the clinic or in operational field settings, data collection and organization, literature reviews, structured interviews, analysis and interpretation of basic data, and preparation of data files, technical reports, summaries and protocols.  This job is onsite in San Diego, California.

***Contingent upon contract award***

Responsibilities

Duties include, but are not limited to:

  • Supports the execution of clinical research efforts and investigations under the supervision of the project lead(s).
  • Participates in recruiting and consenting participants, data collection and organization to include quality checks/quality control activities, literature reviews, structured interviews and providing basic data analysis.
  • Assists with the preparation of data files, technical/analytic reports, and summaries.
  • Maintains clear and accurate records, inventories, and documentation.
  • Verifies and corrects data entry for research projects, supports senior staff in quality control and provides troubleshooting.
  • Provides written and verbal updates to senior leadership.
  • Assists the team on program/project improvement initiatives, implementation science study, and may support the development, reporting and analysis of study/ program performance through relevant methods.
  • Prepares requests for actions/proposals to include assisting with grant proposal applications and associated documentation and requirements. Facilitates the flow and approval processes for relevant projects as needed.
  • May contribute to poster/presentations/manuscript.

***Contingent upon contract award***

Qualifications

Minimum Required Qualifications

Citizenship: Must be a US citizen

Clearance: Ability to Obtain Secret

Education: Bachelor's degree required, Master's Degree preferred. Extensive research experience may be considered in lieu of a graduate degree. Must complete CITI/ HIPAA training.

Years of Experience:  2-4 years of experience in social science, health, or neurological research required; human subjects preferred. Prior experience within the DoD/VA systems of care preferred.

Certifications:  Current certification in Basic Life Support if working in a hospital environment.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

  • Knowledge of standard qualitative and quantitative data collection techniques.
  • Ability to work well independently and with a team; familiarity with social science research methodology is required.
  • Ability to follow detailed instructions.
  • Excellent communication, writing, and analytical skills required.
  • Ability to work comfortably with computer software, including Microsoft Office and basic statistical or data entry software.
  • Adherence to legal, professional and ethical codes with respect to confidentiality and privacy.
  • Provides research guidance to junior research staff.
  • May encounter patients who are confused, agitated or abusive. Must be available to travel locally, regionally and nationally.

Additional Information:

Location: 34800 Naval Medical Center San Diego, 34800 Bob Wilson Drive, San Diego, CA

Travel: some required.

Remote, Onsite, or Hybrid: Onsite

#LI-JC1

***Contingent upon contract award***

Company Overview

Odyssey is a world-class technical, engineering, and integration company serving the warfighting ecosystem with airborne integration, ISR, C2, and warfighter readiness capabilities. Odyssey meets the military's operational needs by integrating layered defense systems from equipment, technology, and services to data, information, and business operations. We streamline defense acquisition and sustainment, engineering the technical battlefield with domain-specific proficiency to ensure lethality. Odyssey is dedicated to excellent contract execution, peak organizational performance, and fostering a workplace built on employee care.

Odyssey is proud to live out our core values of commitment, ambition, and respect in our work and communities through OdysseyCares, a philanthropic group focused on giving back through direct donations, an employer match program, and volunteering events.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

Please Note:

Final compensation for this position will be determined by various factors such as the Federal Government contract labor categories and contract wage rates, relevant work experience, specific skills and competencies, geographic location, education, and certifications.

This position is filled through continuous recruitment and will remain open until a sufficient pool of applications has been received.Hired applicants may be eligible for benefits, including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, Tricare supplement, short-term disability, long-term disability, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, employee assistance program, learning and development benefit, paid time off, and holidays.Odyssey Benefits

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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