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Social Science Researcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 3, 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 job?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Social Science Researcher position, and why are they important?

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 most common challenges faced by Social Science Researchers, and how are they typically addressed in the workplace?

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.

More about Social Science Researcher jobs
What cities are hiring for Social Science Researcher jobs? Cities with the most Social Science Researcher job openings:
What states have the most Social Science Researcher jobs? States with the most job openings for Social Science Researcher jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Social Science Researcher jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Social Science Researcher jobs are:
Social Science Researcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Social Science Researcher job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,102 per year, or $54.4 per hour.

Evaluation and Social Science Researcher

Center for Energy and Environment

Minneapolis, MN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Location
Hybrid - 1-2 days/week in our Minneapolis office
Join Our Dynamic Market Transformation Team
The Market Transformation team is looking for an Evaluation and Social Science Researcher to help us evaluate progress of our initiatives, identify critical and strategic market insights, and turn insights into action. The Evaluation and Social Science Researcher will apply their research expertise to gauge the effectiveness of our market transformation initiatives and help us gain new understandings to create more successful initiatives.
The Evaluation and Social Science Researcher will be responsible for managing and conducting research activities including research design, data collection, data analysis, and report writing, as well as managing subcontractors and vendors to perform similar work. This position will report to the Sr. Manager of Market Transformation Evaluation.
Who We Are
Center for Energy and Environment (CEE) is a clean energy nonprofit with offices in North Loop of Minneapolis and Roseville, MN. We provide practical energy solutions for homes, businesses, and communities to cut energy waste and harmful emissions. We collaborate regularly with field peers and partners, and we employ curious people who enjoy learning and contributing to the Midwest's quality of life and economy. Recognized as one of Minnesota's top 200 workplaces by the Star Tribune, CEE is known for its open communication, respect for diverse perspectives, and commitment to work-life balance.
The Market Transformation Department is the home base for our Efficient Technology Accelerator program (etamn.org) and energy codes work. Our department works on deploying emerging technologies rapidly and working to make efficiency and low carbon solutions the new normal.
What We Offer
  • Insurance Coverage Options: To ensure you and your family are well protected, we have got you covered with Medical Insurance, Dental Insurance, Health Saving Account, and Flexible Spending Accounts. Please see our 2026 Benefit Summary.
  • Impact: We want to make the world a better and more energy efficient place. Our work and the decisions we make are rooted in this foundational desire.
  • Future Planning: To help you secure your financial future, benefit from our retirement saving program. Reach your goal sooner with our immediate vesting and company contribution.
  • Work/Life Balance: We recognize the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance and are dedicated to supporting our team members in various aspects of their lives. Our benefits include generous Paid Time Off (PTO), paid parental leave, and salary continuation for major medical events, ensuring that you have the support you need during significant life moments and personal challenges.
  • Holidays: Our company provides nine paid holidays each year, offering you ample time to observe important occasions and enjoy personal time.
  • Growth: We want everyone to grow and learn within their roles. We offer professional development opportunities and education assistance.
  • Championing DEI: Our committed DEI Committee promotes a diverse and inclusive work environment by establishing clear goals and assessing progress throughout the organization.

What You'll Do
Social research design and implementation
  • Develop research and sampling plans, working across teams to identify best practices and feasible options
  • Develop surveys, interview guides, and other data collection instruments
  • Conduct literature reviews and other background research
  • Conduct interviews, administer surveys, and implement other data collection methods with key stakeholders and market actors including manufacturers, distributors, contractors, and consumers.
  • Analyze results using appropriate qualitative coding processes or quantitative statistical analyses

Project and subcontractor management
  • Manage internal research processes and coordinate across teams to meet project milestones
  • Develop and manage requests for proposals and other vendor selection processes
  • Apply research expertise to subcontractor development and implementation processes to ensure projects are rigorous and high quality
  • Manage subcontractors, ensuring that projects remain on schedule and on budget

Report research findings
  • Draft reports compiling key research findings and recommendations
  • Create compelling presentations for teams internally and externally
  • Work with our teams to turn research findings into actionable steps and identify additional research needs

Assist with overall evaluation strategy activities
  • Support development, tracking, and reporting on our progress indicators using our CRM and research results
  • Support evaluation plan and logic model design and refinement as needed
  • Lead research efforts for other departments within CEE as needed
  • Other duties as assigned

Skills & Knowledge We're Looking For
  • Minimum 5 years of experience with designing and managing social research or evaluation projects
  • Experience with a wide variety of research methods and the ability to determine the best approaches given certain contexts and constraints
  • Strong project and relationship management skills with experience managing project teams or subcontractors
  • Strong ability to understand and translate technical concepts into survey/interview questions and deliverables for a range of audiences
  • Experience interviewing and building rapport with a range of individuals; demonstrating persistence and creativity in engaging harder-to-reach populations a plus
  • Experience with qualitative analysis software (e.g., Atlas.TI, NVIVO) and/or quantitative data analysis and visualization software (e.g., SPSS, STATA, R, Tableau, GIS)
  • Ability to distill complex research data into relevant and appropriate conclusions and recommendations
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, especially Microsoft Excel, required
  • Excellent interpersonal skills and written/verbal communication
  • Flexibility, adaptability, and a can-do attitude to support the team

Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree or higher in social science, environmental studies, or related fields with relevant coursework in social science research methods.
  • Knowledge of energy efficiency and decarbonization is a plus; must be willing to learn and dive into related technical content.

Compensation
Dependent on qualifications and experience, we expect the pay range upon hire for this position will be $81,000 - $85,000 annually.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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