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Social Science Researcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

By applying behavioral, cultural, political, and social science research methods, you will provide data-driven insights that inform operational planning, influence activities, and strategic decision ...

By applying behavioral, cultural, political, and social science research methods, you will provide data-driven insights that inform operational planning, influence activities, and strategic decision ...

S. and partner forces better understand the human dimension of conflict and competition By applying behavioral, cultural, political, and social science research methods, you will provide data-driven ...

S. and partner forces better understand the human dimension of conflict and competition By applying behavioral, cultural, political, and social science research methods, you will provide data-driven ...

Support and implement social science research tasks of moderate to high technical complexity * Contribute to the planning, execution, and management of qualitative and quantitative research projects

S. and partner forces better understand the human dimension of conflict and competition By applying behavioral, cultural, political, and social science research methods, you will provide data-driven ...

S. and partner forces better understand the human dimension of conflict and competition By applying behavioral, cultural, political, and social science research methods, you will provide data-driven ...

By applying behavioral, cultural, political, and social science research methods, you will provide data-driven insights that inform operational planning, influence activities, and strategic decision ...

Support and implement social science research tasks of moderate to high technical complexity * Contribute to the planning, execution, and management of qualitative and quantitative research projects

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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 Sep 14, 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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Infographic showing various Social Science Researcher job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,102 per year, or $54.4 per hour.

Social Science Research Analyst

New York, NY โ€ข On-site

$125K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

This position is located in the Department of Health & Human Services (HHS), Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation.
As a Social Science Research Analyst, GS-0101-13, develops and uses survey, market research, and statistical methodologies and techniques to conduct studies of assigned HHS programs.Qualifications:ALL QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS MUST BE MET WITHIN 30 DAYS OF THE CLOSING DATE OF THIS ANNOUNCEMENT.
Your resume (limited to no more than 2 pages) must include detailed information as it relates to the responsibilities and specialized experience for this position. Evidence of copying and pasting directly from the vacancy announcement without clearly documenting supplemental information to describe your experience will result in an ineligible rating. This will prevent you from being considered further.

In order to qualify for the GS-13, you must meet the following:
Applicants must demonstrate that they meet the basic AND specialized experience requirements as noted below.
Basic Requirement: You must meet one of the items listed below (A, B, or C):
A. Possess a degree in behavioral or social science; or related disciplines appropriate to the position (must provide transcript); OR
B. Possess a combination of education and experience that provided you with the knowledge of one or more of the behavioral or social sciences equivalent to a major in the field (must provide transcript); OR
C. Possess four years of appropriate experience that demonstrates acquired knowledge of one or more of the behavioral or social sciences equivalent to a major in the field (must be demonstrated in your resume).
AND
Specialized Experience:
You must meet the following: You must demonstrate in your resume at least one year (52 weeks) of qualifying specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 grade level in the Federal government, obtained in either the private or public sector, to include:
1. Conducting policy or program analyses involving healthcare quality measures or value-based payment models to evaluate outcomes and develop data-driven recommendations;
2. Leading cross-functional projects with contractors, model teams, and senior leadership to coordinate quality initiatives and resolve issues impacting program operations;
3. Preparing executive-level reports, briefing papers, or policy memoranda to communicate analytical findings to senior leadership in support of federal healthcare initiatives; And
4. Managing multiple concurrent projects involving healthcare quality measures or program evaluation to coordinate with contractors and leadership while ensuring timely delivery of analyses.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills, and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
Time-in-Grade: To be eligible, current Federal employees must have served at least 52 weeks (one year) at the next lower grade level from the position/grade level(s) to which they are applying.Education:Education Requirement: In addition to meeting the qualification requirements, all candidates must have the following educational requirements: .
TRANSCRIPTS are required to verify satisfactory completion of the educational requirement listed above. Please see "Required Documents" section below for what documentation is required at the time of application.
Click the following link to view the occupational questionnaire: https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/13054472Employment Type: OTHER