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Social Science Researcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ISHE

$83 - $138/hr

Advanced degree (PhD preferred) in a quantitative social science field, or equivalent experience * Demonstrated ability to design and conduct quantitative research projects efficiently * Knowledge of ...

New

ISHE

Data Scientist/Social Science Researcher

Evanston, IL · On-site

$83 - $138/hr

Advanced degree (PhD preferred) in a quantitative social science field, or equivalent experience * Demonstrated ability to design and conduct quantitative research projects efficiently * Knowledge of ...

New

BLN24

Social Science Research Lead

Mclean, VA · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Social Science Research Lead Position Overview BLN24 has an exciting opportunity for a Social Science Research Lead to supportNationalOceanic and Atmospheric Administration. This position provides ...

BLN24

Social Science Research Lead

Mclean, VA · On-site

Job Title: Social Science Research Lead Position Overview: BLN24 has an exciting opportunity for a Social Science Research Lead to support National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. This ...

BLN24

Social Science Research Lead

Mclean, VA · On-site

Job Title:  Social Science Research Lead Position Overview: BLN24 has an exciting opportunity for a Social Science Research Lead to support National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. This ...

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Social Science Researcher information

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$30K

$113.1K

$164.5K

How much do social science researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for social science researcher in the United States is $113,102.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $154,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a social science researcher?

A Social Science Researcher studies human behavior, societies, and institutions using qualitative and quantitative research methods. They gather and analyze data, conduct surveys, interview participants, and interpret trends to provide insights on social issues. Their work informs policies, academic studies, and organizational practices across various fields such as sociology, psychology, economics, and political science.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a social science researcher?

To thrive as a Social Science Researcher, you need strong analytical skills, knowledge of social science theories, and a relevant degree such as sociology, psychology, or political science. Familiarity with statistical analysis software (e.g., SPSS, R, or NVivo), data collection tools, and sometimes research ethics certification are typically required. Excellent written and verbal communication, critical thinking, and collaboration skills help distinguish top performers in this role. These abilities are vital for designing rigorous studies, interpreting complex data, and effectively sharing findings with both academic and non-academic audiences.

What are the common challenges faced by social science researchers and how are they addressed?

Social Science Researchers often encounter challenges such as recruiting representative study participants, managing large or complex data sets, and navigating tight deadlines for grant-funded projects. Addressing these challenges usually involves close teamwork, proactive project planning, and regular communication with supervisors or collaborators. Many organizations also provide resources such as access to participant databases, collaboration with data analysts, or project management tools to help researchers succeed. By seeking support from mentors and actively engaging with peers, researchers can effectively overcome obstacles and make meaningful contributions to their field.

Do social science researchers make good money?

Social science researchers' salaries vary depending on experience, education, and employer, but they generally earn a median annual wage that is close to the national average for social science occupations. Advanced degrees and specialized skills, such as data analysis or statistical software proficiency, can lead to higher compensation. Salaries can also differ based on whether they work in academia, government, or private sectors.

What degree do you need to be a social science researcher?

A social science researcher typically needs at least a bachelor's degree in social sciences such as sociology, anthropology, psychology, or political science. Many roles require a master's degree or higher for advanced research positions, along with strong analytical skills and experience with research methods and statistical tools.
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Social Science Researcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Social Science Researcher job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,102 per year, or $54.4 per hour.

Data Scientist/Social Science Researcher

On-site

ISHE
See more jobs at ISHEexternal

$83 - $138/hr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

We are seeking an experienced freelance researcher with advanced skills in data science, research design, and translational research. Reporting to and partnering directly with firm leadership, you will work across a varied portfolio—advocacy research, messaging polls for political candidates, organizational climate surveys, and more. Survey analysis is our most frequent type of project.

The ideal candidate brings a flexible mind and the ability to carry data-centric projects from research design and data cleaning through analysis and final deliverables. You will use your whole brain, learn new skills, teach your collaborators, and directly shape strategic decisions made by our corporate, political, and nonprofit clients.

We anticipate a workload of approximately 30–60 hours per month, varying with the project cycle. We would ideally fill this position with one person working across a wide range of projects, but we are also building a roster of partners for project-based work. Applicants with limited availability are welcome alongside those seeking more regular, intensive engagement.

Key Responsibilities
  • Draft public opinion surveys, using social scientific best practices, that answer clients’ key strategic questions.
  • Clean and process survey data efficiently, including the development of survey weights.
  • Produce survey deliverables: topline results, strategy-focused memos, and presentations with clear, data visualizations.
  • Design and execute research projects using internal client data.
  • Communicate complex quantitative results to audiences with varying levels of statistical fluency.
  • Advanced degree (PhD preferred) in a quantitative social science field, or equivalent experience
  • Demonstrated ability to design and conduct quantitative research projects efficiently
  • Knowledge of best practices and scientific principles of polling and public opinion research
  • High proficiency in R and/or STATA, our primary analysis tools
  • Experience with survey platforms such as Qualtrics or SurveyMonkey
  • Knowledge of and experience applying data visualization best practices
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office and presentation software
  • Excellent writing, communication, and critical thinking skills
  • Ability to balance priorities within and across projects, learn new skills, and adapt to new clients
  • High responsiveness and self-directed autonomy in a remote work environment
  • Understanding of and experience with equity-driven research and analysis

Commitment to working with people of diverse backgrounds and perspectives

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