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Social Science Research Associate Jobs in Michigan

University of Michigan

Research Associate

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$43K - $53K/yr

Job Summary We are seeking a full-time Research Associate in the U-M School of Public Health ... Experience in presenting at scientific conferences * Demonstrated ability to work independently ...

Wayne State University

Research Assistant

Detroit, MI · On-site

$19 - $26.25/hr

Bachelor's Degree in any area of social science research (including political science, anthropology, demography, education, geography, psychology, public health, social work, sociology, survey ...

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

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for social science research associate in Michigan is $21.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.29 and $27.31 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 Michigan?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cities in Michigan 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 Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 32% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,783 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Research Assistant/Associate (Program Evaluation & Survey Research) at Wayne State University D[...]

Feitong Buke

Detroit, MI • On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Other

Posted 7 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Develop formative and summative evaluation plans and construct logic models to capture program activities and outcomes.

  • Perform day-to-day oversight of program evaluation and primary data collection activities, including surveys, interviews, and focus groups.

  • Conduct statistical analysis of evaluation data and produce reports or deliverables, including presentations to policy-making bodies and professional organizations.

Job description

Research Assistant/Associate (Program Evaluation & Survey Research) job at Wayne State University. Detroit, MI. Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Research Assistant/Associate (Program Evaluation & Survey Research) at its Detroit campus location.

Essential functions (job duties)

The Center for Urban Studies, a research center located within Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan, seeks an experienced Program Evaluator to serve as a Research Assistant/Associate.

Responsibilities
  • Develop formative and summative evaluation plans and construct comprehensive logic models that capture program activities and outcomes.
  • Design evaluation procedures/protocols and develop data collection/survey instruments and manage and supervise the construction and maintenance of databases and web-based data profiles.
  • Collaborate with others regarding data management, and in the planning and implementation of data quality assurance plans.
  • Perform day-to-day oversight in program evaluation and primary data collection activities, including large survey mailing, face-to-face and telephone interviews, focus groups, and so forth; monitor data collection progress; and seek innovative strategies to increase survey response rates.
  • Conduct statistical analysis of evaluation data and assume a lead role in producing reports or other deliverable documents and prepare and deliver presentations to policy-making bodies and professional organizations.
  • Initiate grant proposals in the area of program evaluation and survey research, including identifying funding sources and RFPs; conducting literature reviews; developing research question; designing research methods, data analysis plan, and data collection procedures.
  • Assist in the preparation of articles for consideration in refereed journals on an ongoing basis.
  • Prepare regular updates to Center Director and Managing Director.
Qualifications
  • A degree in social science research (including political science, public administration, demography, education, geography, psychology, public health, social work, sociology, survey methodology, statistics, and urban studies), especially coursework in program evaluation and advanced statistical analyses, is required. Working toward a Ph.D. in progress is highly preferred.
  • Experience in designing or leading Program Evaluation projects/studies, and managing primary data collection, especially in an academic setting.
  • Experience in evaluating early childhood or special education statewide programs is a plus.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Demonstrated experience in designing, implementing, and managing program evaluation projects, including both formative and summative dimensions. Experience with the development and use of logic models to describe complex programs.
  • Skilled at designing and implementing data collection tools, including survey instruments to conduct primary data collection.
  • Ability to develop action plans and systems to facilitate and track implementation of evaluation and survey findings and recommendations.
  • A strong working knowledge of social science research methods and experience in managing primary data collection procedures (CATI lab, web-based surveys, mail surveys, in-person interviews, focus groups, etc.) and practicalities of implementation required.
  • Effectively utilize software necessary to convert and process data (e.g. SAS, SPSS, Excel, Access, Dbase). Computer programming capability, including CATI programming software (especially for remote work), is an advantage.
  • Experience in statistical analyses.
  • Supervision skills and experience, including effective recruitment strategies and performance assessment, is a plus.
  • Ability to manage several projects simultaneously, prioritize and plan work activities while meeting respective deadlines. Strong organizational and time-management skills.
  • Flexible and adaptable style; a professional and resourceful style; the ability to work independently and as a team player, to take initiative, and to manage multiple tasks and projects at a time.
  • Strong diplomatic skills to present, and answer questions and concerns effectively.
  • Outstanding written and oral communication skills.

University policy requires certain persons who are offered employment to undergo a background check, including a criminal history check, before starting work. If you are offered employment, the university will inform you if a background check is required.

The university welcomes applications from persons with disabilities and veterans. Wayne State is an equal opportunity employer.

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