1

Social Science Researcher Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

$23.40 - $28.60/hr

Master's degree in public policy, sociology, criminology, political science, or a related social science discipline strongly preferred; bachelor's degree with significant research experience ...

Economist

Youngstown, OH · On-site

$74K/yr

Examples of specialized experience includes applying economics and quantitative social science methods as well as operations research analysis and models to perform difficult and complex assignments.

next page

Showing results 1-20

Social Science Researcher information

See Ohio salary details

$28.5K

$107.5K

$156.4K

How much do social science researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for social science researcher in Ohio is $107,525.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,700.00 and $146,400.00 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.

What are popular job titles related to Social Science Researcher jobs in Ohio?

For Social Science Researcher jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Ohio are hiring for Social Science Researcher jobs?

Cities in Ohio with the most Social Science Researcher job openings:

Infographic showing various Social Science Researcher job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,525 per year, or $51.7 per hour.

Public Health Researcher (Early Career)

Columbus, OH • On-site, Remote


Battelle Memorial Institute
Scientific Research and Development Services • 10K+ employees

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 120 rated laboratories

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer


$60K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Battelle delivers when others can't. We conduct research and development, manage national laboratories, design and manufacture products and deliver critical services for our clients-whether they are a multi-national corporation, a small start-up or a government agency.
We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.
Job Summary
We are currently seeking a Social Scientist - Entry Level. This position is an early career opportunity located in Columbus, OH or in the Washington D.C. area.
This role supports social science research, data collection, and analysis through structured work assignments. The Social Scientist - Entry Level will extract information from existing databases and literature and prepare that information for further analysis.
This role applies quantitative and qualitative theories, methods, and techniques across the social sciences to analyze human, organizational, and social phenomena and to address emerging and prevailing societal issues - including those related to energy, environment, technological innovation, health and human safety, national defense and security, and public policy. Areas of research may include sociology, psychology, behavioral science, computational social science, economics, political science, human geography, demography, anthropology, history, linguistics, and law.
Responsibilities
  • Conducts social science research, data collection, and analysis.
  • Performs structured work assignments.
  • Extracts information from existing databases or literature and prepares information for analysis.
  • Conducts, designs and/or leads social science research.
  • Applies quantitative and qualitative theories, methods, and techniques across social sciences to analyze human, organizational and social phenomena.
  • Address emerging and prevailing societal issues concerning energy, environment, technological innovation, health and human safety, national defense and security, and public policy.

Key Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience in a related field
  • Applicants must have authorization to work in the United States. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of any employment Visa currently.

Compensation Data
Battelle is committed to fair and equitable compensation practices. The salary range for this role is $60,000 - $70,000 per year, in addition to our comprehensive benefits package. A candidate's salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to education, relevant work experience, skills, and certifications. Salary ranges may vary based on geographic location and market conditions.
Benefits: Live an Extraordinary Life
We care about your well-being, not just on the job. Battelle offers comprehensive and competitive benefits to help you live your best life.
  • Balance life through a compressed work schedule: Most of our team follows a flexible, compressed work schedule that allows for every other Friday off-giving you a dedicated day to accomplish things in your personal life without using vacation time.
  • Enjoy enhanced work flexibility, including a hybrid arrangement: You have options for where and when you work. Our Together with Flexibility model allows you to work 60% in-office and 40% remote, with Monday and Tuesday as common in-office days, dependent on team and position needs .
  • Take time to recharge: You get paid time off to support work-life balance and keep motivated.
  • Prioritize wellness: Stay healthy with medical, dental, and vision coverage with wellness incentives and benefits plus a variety of optional supplemental benefits.
  • Better together: Coverage for partners, gender-affirming care and health support, and family formation support.
  • Build your financial future: Build financial stability with an industry-leading 401(k) retirement savings plan. For most employees, we put in 5 percent whether you contribute or not, and match your contributions on top of that.
  • Advance your education: Tuition assistance is available to pursue higher education.

A Work Environment Where You Succeed
For brilliant minds in science, technology, engineering and business operations, Battelle is the place to do the greatest good by solving humanity's most pressing challenges and creating a safer, healthier and more secure world.
You will have the opportunity to thrive in a culture that inspires you to:
  • Apply your talent to challenging and meaningful projects
  • Receive select funding to pursue ideas in scientific and technological discovery
  • Partner with world-class experts in a collaborative environment
  • Nurture and develop the next generation of scientific leaders
  • Give back to and improve our communities

Vaccinations & Safety Protocols
Battelle may require employees, based on job duties, work location, and/or its clients' requirements to follow certain safety protocols and to be vaccinated against a variety of viruses, bacteria, and diseases as a condition of employment and continued employment and to provide documentation that they are fully vaccinated. If applicable, Battelle will provide reasonable accommodations based on a qualified disability or medical condition through the Americans with Disabilities Act or the Rehabilitation Act or for a sincerely held religious belief under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (and related state laws).
Battelle is an equal opportunity employer. We provide employment and opportunities for advancement, compensation, training, and growth according to individual merit, without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, age, genetic information, disability, veteran-status veteran or military status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable Federal, state, or local law. Our goal is for each staff member to have the opportunity to grow to the limits of their abilities and to achieve personal and organizational objectives. We will support positive programs for equal treatment of all staff and full utilization of all qualified employees at all levels within Battelle.
The above statements are intended to describe the nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, activities and skills required of staff members. No statement herein is intended to imply any authorities to commit Battelle unless special written permission is granted by Battelle's Legal Department.
For more information about our other openings, please visit www.battelle.org/careers


What Battelle Memorial Institute employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom