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Social Science Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

ICF

Research Associate, Social Marketing

Reston, VA

Bachelor's degree in public health, the social sciences, marketing or a related field * 5+ years of experience in social science research or marketing analytics to include experience conducting ...

US Department of the Air Force

$61K/yr

Examples of specialized experience includes performing limited duties relating to violence prevention and the multiple uses of systems and performing duties in behavioral, social science and/or ...

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

$61K/yr

Examples of specialized experience includes performing limited duties relating to violence prevention and the multiple uses of systems and performing duties in behavioral, social science and/or ...

US Department of the Air Force

VA · On-site

$61K/yr

Examples of specialized experience includes performing limited duties relating to violence prevention and the multiple uses of systems and performing duties in behavioral, social science and/or ...

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

VA · On-site

$61K/yr

Examples of specialized experience includes performing limited duties relating to violence prevention and the multiple uses of systems and performing duties in behavioral, social science and/or ...

US Department of the Air Force

$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.

US Department of the Air Force

Economist

Dahlgren, VA · 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.

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

Economist

Dahlgren, VA · 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.

US Department of the Air Force

Economist

Fort Eustis, VA · 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.

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All JobsSocial Science JobsSocial Science Jobs in Virginia

Social Science information

See Virginia salary details

$31.2K

$50.2K

$67.4K

How much do social science jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for social science in Virginia is $50,175.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,100.00 and $52,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a social science job?

Social science jobs are roles that involve studying human behavior, society, and social relationships using research and analytical methods. These jobs can include positions such as sociologists, psychologists, anthropologists, political scientists, and social workers. Professionals in social science often work in research, education, government, or non-profit organizations, aiming to understand and address social issues. Their work helps inform policies, support communities, and contribute to a better understanding of societal dynamics.

How to get a job in social science?

There are a variety of jobs available in social science, though a few require significant formal qualifications, such as a master’s degree or doctorate. Narrow your search to careers you are interested in before delving into specific job requirements, and then gain related experience at internships available through university programs. Subsequent to that, you should pursue entry-level research opportunities whenever they are available.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a social scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Social Scientist, you need a solid background in research methods, data analysis, and a relevant degree such as sociology, psychology, or anthropology. Familiarity with statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R, or Stata), qualitative analysis tools, and sometimes advanced certifications in research methods are typically required. Strong critical thinking, communication, and collaboration skills help in interpreting findings and conveying results to diverse audiences. These competencies are crucial for producing rigorous, impactful research that informs policy, academia, or organizational decision-making.

What are some common challenges social science professionals face when working on interdisciplinary teams?

Social science professionals often collaborate with colleagues from fields such as public health, engineering, or data science. One common challenge is bridging differences in research methodologies and terminology, which can lead to misunderstandings or communication gaps. Successful collaboration requires strong interpersonal skills, adaptability, and the ability to explain social science concepts in accessible ways. By fostering open dialogue and mutual respect, social scientists can contribute valuable perspectives and ensure their insights are integrated into broader projects.

What is the difference between Social Science vs Sociology?

AspectSocial ScienceSociology
CredentialsBachelor's or higher in social sciences, often with specializationBachelor's or higher in sociology or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch institutions, government agencies, NGOsAcademic settings, research organizations, community programs
Industry UsageBroad social sciences including anthropology, political scienceFocused on social behaviors, institutions, and society

Social science is a broad field encompassing various disciplines like anthropology, political science, and sociology. Sociology is a specific social science focused on studying social behaviors, institutions, and societal structures. While sociology is a subset of social science, the latter covers a wider range of disciplines and applications.

What can I do with social science?

A social science degree prepares individuals for careers in research, policy analysis, community development, education, and government roles. Professionals in this field often work as social scientists, policy analysts, market researchers, or educators, utilizing skills in data analysis, critical thinking, and communication. Job opportunities are available in public and private sectors, often requiring strong analytical tools and understanding of social systems.

What careers come from social science?

Social science graduates can pursue careers such as social researcher, policy analyst, community development specialist, human resources manager, and market researcher. These roles often require strong analytical, communication, and research skills, and may involve working in government, non-profits, or private sectors.
More about Social Science jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Social Science jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Social Science jobs in Virginia are:

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

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

What job categories do people searching Social Science jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Social Science jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Social Science jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Social Science job openings:

Social Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Social Science job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,175 per year, or $24.1 per hour.

Research Associate, Social Marketing

ICF

Reston, VA

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Our strategic health communications and social marketing work tackles some of society's greatest challenges and drives audiences to make positive attitudinal and behavioral changes.

A growing research team needs a self-starter to support formative, process, and summative evaluations that guide the planning, implementation, and revision of national health communications and social marketing campaigns. This entry-level position is ideal for someone who is starting a career in mixed methods (i.e., qualitative and quantitative) research and likes to support multiple projects.

We seek to hire a Research Associate to support formative, process, and summative evaluations that guide the planning, implementation, and revision of national health communications and social marketing efforts.

As a Research Associate, you will:

  • Help develop recruitment and data collection materials (e.g., format surveys or interview guides).
  • Support sampling (e.g., search for sources in EBSCO, Google Scholar, and other portals; schedule individual or group interviews with potential participants; distribute survey invitations).
  • Assist with data collection (e.g., abstract information from the sources, take notes during individual or group discussions).
  • Enter data using software such as Microsoft Excel.
  • Support data analysis (e.g., code text using software such as NVivo or MaxQDA).
  • Assist with reporting (e.g., create and format tables and graphs using software such as Microsoft Excel, Power BI, Looker Studio or PowerPoint, manage reference lists using software such as EndNote).
  • Coordinate purchasing, subcontracting, and consulting requisitions by obtaining and comparing vendor and consultant quotes, establishing suitable justifications, developing or modifying forms, and processing payments.

As a Research Associate, you will have:

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in public health, the social sciences, marketing or a related field
  • 5+ years of experience in social science research or marketing analytics to include experience conducting qualitative and/or quantitative research, including research design, data collection, analysis, and interpretation

Professional Skills

  • Strong verbal and written communication, organizational, and administrative skills
  • Ability to prioritize, multi-task, and work under strict deadlines in a fast-paced environment
  • High level of attention to detail
  • High level of comfort with learning new skills and/or working with unfamiliar topic areas
  • Strong self-starting and self-motivation skills

Desired Qualifications

  • Master's degree in public health, social or behavioral sciences, marketing, or a related field
  • 2+ years of experience in social science research, market research, or marketing analytics
  • Knowledge of behavioral science or behavior change principles and their application to communications, programs, or interventions
  • Experience with human-centered design, Design Thinking, user-centered design, or similar approaches to understanding audience needs
  • Fluent in Spanish

Bot and Third-Party Applications

Please note that this application must be submitted directly by the applicant for consideration.Failure to do so may result in the application being excluded for consideration.Applicants needing an accommodation for disability or religious purposes in connection with the application process should contactCandidateaccommodation@icf.comfor assistance.

Working at ICF

ICF is a global advisory and technology services provider, but we're not your typical consultants. We combine unmatched expertise with cutting-edge technology to help clients solve their most complex challenges, navigate change, and shape the future.

We can only solve the world's toughest challenges by building a workplace that allows everyone to thrive. We are an equal opportunity employer.Together, our employees are empowered to share theirexpertiseand collaborate with others to achieve personal and professional goals. For more information, please read ourEEOpolicy.

We will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Reasonable Accommodations are available, including, but not limited to, for disabled veterans, individuals with disabilities, and individuals withsincerely heldreligious beliefs, in all phases of the application and employment process. To requestan accommodation,please emailCandidateaccommodation@icf.comand we will be happy toassist. All information you provide will be kept confidential and will be used only to the extentrequiredto provide needed reasonable accommodations.

Read more aboutworkplacediscriminationrightsor our benefit offerings which are included in theTransparency in (Benefits) CoverageAct.

Candidate AI Usage Policy

At ICF, we are committed to ensuring a fair interview process for all candidates based on their own skills and knowledge. As part of this commitment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools to generate orassistwith responses during interviews (whether in-person or virtual) is notpermitted. This policy is in place tomaintainthe integrity and authenticity of the interview process.

However, we understand that some candidates may require accommodationthat involves the use of AI. Ifsuch anaccommodation is needed, candidates are instructed to contact us in advance atcandidateaccommodation@icf.com. Weare dedicated to providingthe necessary support to ensure that all candidates have an equal opportunity to succeed.


Pay Range - There are multiple factors that are considered in determining final pay for a position, including, but not limited to, relevant work experience, skills, certifications and competencies that align to the specified role, geographic location, education and certifications as well as contract provisions regarding labor categories that are specific to the position.

The pay range for this position based on full-time employment is:

$61,232.00 - $104,094.00Nationwide Remote Office (US99)

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