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Social Science Research Associate Jobs in California

Moffitt

Research Associate I

West Covina, CA

$18.19 - $27.83/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 ...

Murphy Research

Research Associate

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$50K - $52K/yr

We are actively seeking full-time Research Associates to join the Murphy Research consulting team ... You have a background in the social sciences: degree or lab experience in psychology, sociology, or ...

Murphy Research

Research Associate

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$50K - $52K/yr

We are actively seeking full-time Research Associates to join the Murphy Research consulting team ... You have a background in the social sciences: degree or lab experience in psychology, sociology, or ...

Murphy Research

Research Associate

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$50K - $52K/yr

We are actively seeking full-time Research Associates to join the Murphy Research consulting team ... You have a background in the social sciences: degree or lab experience in psychology, sociology, or ...

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Social Science Research Associate information

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$32

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

As of Jul 30, 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 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 key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Social Science Research Associate, and why are they important?

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 are Social Science Research Associates?

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 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,149 per year, or $24.6 per hour.

Research Associate I

Brandeis University

Brandeis, CA

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

The Cohen Center for Modern Jewish Study is seeking to hire a Research Associate. The Research Associate contributes to all phases and aspects of research projects as a member of interdisciplinary social science research teams. Primary responsibilities include grant writing, research design, data collection and analysis, and managing the write-up of research reports.

The hiring range for the position is $51.3k-$64.1k.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Independently conducts project research within agreed upon parameters. Recommends experimental design to PIs/Co-PIs and other team members. 30%

  • Collects and/or oversees collection of relevant data utilizing a variety of techniques, e.g. synthesizing published data; conducting interviews; ordering and analyzing transcriptions; deploying online surveys; or observing and recording focus groups. 20%

  • Analyzes a wide variety of quantitative and qualitative data. 20%

  • Assists in all phases of research: from the development of grant proposals, research design and creation of instruments to the preparation of final manuscripts. 20%

  • Performs other assignments as needed. 10%

Job Requirements:

  • Education: MS/MA/equivalent or BS/BA

  • Work Experience: 1-3 years or 3-5 years

Pay Range Disclosure

The University's pay ranges represent a good faith estimate of what Brandeis reasonably expects to pay for a position at the time of posting. The pay offered to a selected candidate during hiring will be based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience and education/training, internal peer equity, and applicable legal requirements.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Brandeis University is an equal opportunity employer which does not discriminate against any applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, ancestry, religious creed, gender identity and expression, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy, age, genetic information, disability, caste, military or veteran status or any other category protected by law (also known as membership in a "protected class").

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