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Social Science Research Associate Jobs in Michigan

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Social Science Research Associate information

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

As of Aug 18, 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:

Infographic showing various Social Science Research Associate job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. 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.

Associate Research Scientist (Quality Assurance Lead)

Arbor Research Collaborative for Health

Ann Arbor, MI • On-site, Remote

$80K - $128K/yr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Characteristic Duties and Responsibilities 

  •  As Quality Assurance Lead for the OPTN Patient Safety and Compliance task order, coordinates all QA across all systems and ensure there is a process in place for issue resolution across all teams/orgs. Maintains familiarity with modern quality assurance standards and tools. Champions automated testing and test coverage.
  •  Leads of team of Quality assurance analysts that design and execute software tests to identify problems and learn how the software works.
  •  Oversee, develop and execute comprehensive suites of automation test plans and test cases, maintaining and adding to existing automation framework, continued evaluation of test cases for inclusion in regression, automation for new features, and development of toolsets to augment QA and development testing.
  • Contribute to major research projects and provide input into new directions for existing program areas. 
  • Participate in successful proposals for new research studies that meaningfully support or extend Arbor Research’s portfolio. Lead proposals for supplementary support, including individual training grants. 
  • Develop and carry out methodological and/or applied research leading to peer-reviewed publications, reports to sponsoring agencies, and other dissemination strategies. Research agendas will be formulated to target both individual and organizational development goals and may be supported by funded project activity and dedicated organizational resources. 
  • Provide scientific and operational oversight for research projects. Work with a Project Manager to oversee the management of individual and team tasks and timelines. 
  • Make significant contributions to study protocol development and analytic approaches. Provide mentorship and/or guidance to the analytic staff. 
  • Present seminars, talks, and lectures externally on behalf of Arbor Research, and internally for staff advancement and education. 
  • Work creatively to identify additional ways to translate research findings into improving health services practice and policy. 
  • Lead projects including those focused on providing expert technical assistance to clients or health care organizations, implementation of health policies or health care delivery models, monitoring, program evaluation, and learning collaboratives. 
  • Provide operational oversight for projects, often including as a project director, deputy project director, or task lead. Work with a Project Manager to oversee the management of individual and team tasks and timelines. Build and maintain relationships with project sponsors, external partners, and internal managers and staff. 

A successful Associate Research Scientist typically advances to Research Scientist in one to three years. 

Core Values 

Our core values define who we are as an organization and serve as the foundation of our code of ethics. Arbor Research expects all employees to embody these and demonstrate them in our day-to-day work. 

  • Collaborative Spirit 

We expect each staff member to learn from and teach one another and ask each to exhibit a curiosity and respect for the contributions of others. 

  • Creativity 

We strive to cultivate a challenging, stimulating, and supportive environment where our employees are expected to be inquisitive, take initiative, and demonstrate ingenuity. 

  • Credibility 

Our employees are smart, thoughtful, and objective in their work. We expect them to be technically solid in their area of expertise, and for those conducting research to demonstrate scientific rigor. 

  • Dedication 

Our team achieves success because of our dedication to carrying out high quality work and delivering trusted results. 

Supervision  

Associate Research Scientists work closely with a formal mentor to initiate and guide their own work. Additional opportunities for mentorship and collaboration will be made available among the organization’s methodological and clinical teams. Formal supervision is provided by a Senior Research Scientist (or other senior research staff member) who may or may not also be the formal mentor. 

Required Qualifications 

  • MD, PhD or master's degree and/or relative experience in health services research, biostatistics, epidemiology, health economics, health policy or other social science field 
  • Capability to succeed in research, as demonstrated by development of specific content-area expertise, lead, or senior authorship on refereed publications, and/or invited presentations 
  • Demonstrated potential to meaningfully contribute to research projects, as well as securing funding for new projects consistent with the Arbor Research mission   
  • Strong oral and written communication skills  
  • Ability to travel, including international, with several nights away from home per year 

Annual Salary Range 

$80,000 - $128,500 (US National Average) 

Base Compensation Determination

Base Compensation is determined by market range and geographic location pay zones. Base Compensation also includes various individual factors unique to each candidate such as job level, prior experience, skill set, certification and educational which may impact the compensation structure.

This position is classified as exempt according to FLSA guidelines