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Social Science Jobs in Pittsburgh, PA (NOW HIRING)

Must have a Bachelor's Degree in Human Services/Education/Social Science. Examples of disciplines include: education, medicine, neuropsychology, occupational therapy, physical therapy, psychology ...

Must have a Bachelor's Degree in Human Services/Education/Social Science. Examples of disciplines include: education, medicine, neuropsychology, occupational therapy, physical therapy, psychology ...

Must have a Bachelor's Degree in Human Services/Education/Social Science. Examples of disciplines include: education, medicine, neuropsychology, occupational therapy, physical therapy, psychology ...

Must have a Bachelor's Degree in Human Services/Education/Social Science. Examples of disciplines include: education, medicine, neuropsychology, occupational therapy, physical therapy, psychology ...

Must have a Bachelor's Degree in Human Services/Education/Social Science. Examples of disciplines include: education, medicine, neuropsychology, occupational therapy, physical therapy, psychology ...

Must have a Bachelor's Degree in Human Services/Education/Social Science. Examples of disciplines include: education, medicine, neuropsychology, occupational therapy, physical therapy, psychology ...

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Social Science information

See Pittsburgh, PA salary details

$30.6K

$49.1K

$66K

How much do social science jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for social science in Pittsburgh, PA is $49,132.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,100.00 and $51,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are social science jobs?

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.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Social Science jobs in Pittsburgh, PA? The most popular types of Social Science jobs in Pittsburgh, PA are:
What cities near Pittsburgh, PA are hiring for Social Science jobs? Cities near Pittsburgh, PA with the most Social Science job openings:
Infographic showing various Social Science job openings in Pittsburgh, PA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,132 per year, or $23.6 per hour.
PREVENTION SPECIALIST

$52.21K/yr

Other

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Click on "Learn more about this agency" button below for IMPORTANT additional information.
The primary purpose of this position is to serve as Prevention Specialist at an Air or Space Force installation.Qualifications:In order to qualify, you must meet the basic requirement and specialized experience requirements described in the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards for General Schedule Positions, Individual Occupational Requirements (IOR) for Social Sciences Series 0101 and Group Coverage Qualification Standard for Professional and Scientific Positions.
BASIC REQUIREMENT:
Degree: behavioral or social science; or related disciplines appropriate to the position. NOTE: YOU MUST SUBMIT A COPY OF YOUR TRANSCRIPTS.
OR
Combination of education and experience that provided the applicant with knowledge of one or more of the behavioral or social sciences equivalent to a major in the field. NOTE: YOU MUST SUBMIT A COPY OF YOUR TRANSCRIPTS.
OR
Four years of appropriate experience that demonstrated that the applicant has acquired knowledge of one or more of the behavioral or social sciences equivalent to a major in the field.
In addition to meeting the basic requirement above, to qualify for this position you must also meet the qualification requirements listed below:
GS-09: SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-07 or equivalent in other pay systems. 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 public health practices.
OR
EDUCATION: 2 years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to a master's degree or master's or equivalent graduate degree that provides the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to do the work. NOTE: YOU MUST SUBMIT A COPY OF YOUR TRANSCRIPTS.
GS-11: SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-09 or equivalent in other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience includes performing delivery systems relating to violence prevention and the multiple uses of such systems; performing duties in behavioral, social science and/or public health practices, principles and theories relating to the prevention of violence; and training design, teaching and instructing individuals and groups.
OR
EDUCATION: 3 years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to a Ph.D. degree or Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree that provides the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to do the work. NOTE: YOU MUST SUBMIT A COPY OF YOUR TRANSCRIPTS.
GS-12: SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-11 or equivalent in other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience includes performing delivery systems relating to violence prevention and the multiple uses of such systems; performing duties in behavioral, social science and/or public health practices, principles and theories relating to the prevention of violence; and training design, teaching and instructing individuals and groups.
GS-13: SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-12 or equivalent in other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience includes managing all aspects of a complex integrated prevention programs; leading duties in behavioral, social science and/or public health practices, principles and theories relating to the prevention of violence; and analyzing, planning, organizing, and directing work operations to meet program requirements and objectives with available resources; and mentoring, leading, and appraising the staff of an organization.
GS-14: SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-13 or equivalent in other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience includes directing all aspects of a complex integrated prevention programs; directing complex duties in behavioral, social science and/or public health practices, principles and theories relating to the prevention of violence; and performing strategic planning, organizing, and directing work operations to meet program requirements and objectives with available resources; mentoring, directing, and appraising the staff of an organization.
GS-15: SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-14 or equivalent in other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience includes directing all aspects of a complex integrated prevention programs; directing complex duties in behavioral, social science and/or public health practices, principles and theories relating to the prevention of violence; and performing strategic planning, organizing, and directing work operations to meet program requirements and objectives with available resources; mentoring, motivating, and appraising the staff of an organization.
For additional information on qualifications, please see, https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/0100/social-science-series-0101/
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs): Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas:
1. Knowledge of laws, regulations, and policies as well as behavioral, social science and/or public health practices principles and theories relating to the prevention of violence.
2. Knowledge of a wide range of delivery systems relating to violence prevention and the multiple uses of such systems.
3. Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
4. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
5. Ability to analyze, plan, organize, and direct work operations to meet program requirements and objectives with available resources; mentor, motivate, and appraise the staff of an organization.
6. Ability to identify individual and community risk and protective factors to determine prevention and resilience activities to meet the needs of the base populace.
PART-TIME OR UNPAID EXPERIENCE: Credit will be given for appropriate unpaid and or part-time work. You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week.
VOLUNTEER WORK EXPERIENCE: Refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service Programs (i.e., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student and social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge and skills that can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.Education:IF USING EDUCATION TO QUALIFY: If position has a positive degree requirement or education forms the basis for qualifications, you MUST submit transcriptswith the application. Official transcripts are not required at the time of application; however, if position has a positive degree requirement, qualifying based on education alone or in combination with experience; transcripts must be verified prior to appointment. An accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education must accredit education. Click here to check accreditation.
FOREIGN EDUCATION: Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the requirements. You must show proof the education credentials have been deemed to be at least equivalent to that gained in conventional U.S. education program. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying.Employment Type: OTHER