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Social Science Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Research Scientist

Portland, OR · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Doctorate or equivalent degree in demography, statistics, sociology, ecology, geography, economics, or a related quantitative social science discipline OR in mathematics, physics, or a quantitative ...

Lead AI and Data Science Engineer II

Portland, OR · On-site

$108K - $143K/yr

Organizational research and storytelling ground analyses in rigorous social science and clear, decision-oriented narratives. Data science applies statistical analysis, machine learning, and AI to ...

Market Research Analyst

Portland, OR · Hybrid

$60K - $70K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are looking for candidates who have professional or academic experience in the field of energy efficiency or sustainability, in social science research methods, and/or in program evaluation. They ...

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Showing results 1-20

Social Science information

See Portland, OR salary details

$33.4K

$53.7K

$72.1K

How much do social science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for social science in Portland, OR is $53,671.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,300.00 and $56,200.00 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, analysts, counselors, or educators, utilizing skills in data collection, critical thinking, and communication. Job opportunities are available in public and private sectors, often requiring strong analytical tools and understanding of human behavior.

What careers come from social science?

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

What are the most commonly searched types of Social Science jobs in Portland, OR?

The most popular types of Social Science jobs in Portland, OR are:

What are popular job titles related to Social Science jobs in Portland, OR?

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

What job categories do people searching Social Science jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Social Science jobs in Portland, OR are:

What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Social Science jobs?

Cities near Portland, OR with the most Social Science job openings:

Infographic showing various Social Science job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,671 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

Adjunct Instructor for Social Sciences and Sociology

Warner Pacific University

Portland, OR

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Summary Description: The Adjunct Instructor for Social Sciences and Sociology reports to the Chair of  Social  Sciences and Humanities and is responsible for teaching lower and upper division courses on either the traditional campus or the evening Professional and Graduate Studies campus.  The traditional campus is located on Mt. Tabor in SE Portland and our Professional and Graduate Studies courses run in SE Portland. Terms on the traditional campus typically run 15 weeks and terms in the evening courses run five weeks for undergraduate programs and six weeks for graduate.
We need instructors with graduate degrees who have taken graduate courses in the area of instruction for the following subject areas:
  • Human Development
  • Sociology
  • Criminology
  • Psychology
  • Counseling
  • Social Science Research Methods
  • Government: US, State & Local, US Legal System, Policy Analysis, International Relations

Essential Functions:
  • Teach assigned courses in areas of social science, modeling current best practices in teaching, demonstrating a commitment to sound andragogical and pedagogical practices.
  • Clearly communicate to students when and how to secure instruction and feedback outside of regular course meeting hours, including use of University Learning Management System.
  • Provide prompt and thorough feedback to students to ensure their ability to incorporate changes before subsequent assignments.
  • Work collegially with faculty, staff, and students.
  • Understand and promote the mission, values, and core themes of Warner Pacific University.
  • Exhibit excellent communication skills in all interactions with faculty, staff, and students.
  • Contribute to the support and implementation of the University Strategic Plan.
  • Participate in Warner Pacific University professional development opportunities.
  • Adhere to University policies and procedures.
  • Demonstrate commitment to a Christian liberal arts education by upholding the mission of the University and abiding by the Employment Standards and Lifestyle Agreement.
  • Exhibit commitment to inclusiveness and sensitivity in areas of national origin, ethnicity, culture, gender, and disabilities.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Graduate degree with coursework in the field of instruction
  • Experience working with diverse populations.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Ph.D. in field of instruction
  • Professional experience in the field.
  • College teaching experience in relevant curriculum.

Physical Demands – Work Environment: 
The position is located in a typical office environment.  Professional/business casual attire is required
To apply, please read the Employment and Lifestyle Standards statement below, then complete the online application at www.warnerpacific.edu/jobs. Please also submit the following with your application (you may attach these documents at the conclusion of the online application):
 
*Cover Letter
*Curriculum Vitae or Resume
*Unofficial Transcripts
*Essay Response to the Following Questions:
 
1.  How does your personal faith reflect the principles stated in terms 1, 2, and 3 of the Employment Standards? (listed below)
 2.  How does your personal philosophy of education and commitment to the synthesis of faith and learning reflect the principles stated in items 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8? (listed below)
Employment and Lifestyle Standards: 
Warner Pacific is a Christ-centered urban liberal arts University dedicated to providing students from diverse backgrounds an education that prepares them to engage actively in a constantly changing world. The University was founded in 1937 by the Church of God (Anderson, Indiana). Central to Warner Pacific’s identity as a Christ-centered higher education institution is the policy of hiring persons whose personal and professional lives reflect:
 
1.   A belief in the deity of and commitment to Jesus Christ and the Christian faith, as interpreted through the historic witness of Scripture and the continuing ministry of the Holy Spirit.
2.  The practice of following Christ through day-to-day personal lifestyle choices.
3.  A vitality of Christian experience maturing in insight and application and appreciative of differing viewpoints.
4.  A commitment to life-long learning and service through personal and professional development.
5.  For teaching faculty, the expression of artful teaching, based on mastery of relevant subject matter and in an environment of purposeful and rigorous inquiry amongst a community of scholars who support one another.
6. A capability, by temperament, preparation, and will, to support students as they confront the intellectual, social, physical, emotional, and spiritual challenges of their lives.
7.   A sensitivity to and support for the mission, core themes, vision, values, ethos and traditions of the Warner Pacific University community.
8. A commitment to teaching and serving in harmony with the doctrines of the Holy Bible. 
Employee Agreement:
Mission-based hiring is of critical importance to Warner Pacific University. Employees are expected to demonstrate and articulate a vital Christian faith and to live in a manner consistent with a Christ-centered lifestyle as informed by the Scriptures of the New Testament.
 
Warner Pacific’s students, faculty and staff are expected to foster an environment of mutual respect and accountability, to care for the personal dignity of others and to exercise integrity in their conduct and communication. The University environment is expected to be free from discrimination and harassment (including bullying). When an individual’s behavior has direct implications for others and/or the well-being of the University community, there may be cause for institutional involvement, regardless of where the situation occurs.
 
Warner Pacific University desires to provide a safe and healthy environment for staff, faculty, students, visitors and guests. Therefore, smoking is not permitted on University property, in its vehicles, or at any University sponsored event. The use of illegal drugs or non-prescribed controlled substances is strictly prohibited. Use of alcoholic beverages or tobacco products is strictly prohibited on Warner Pacific University campuses.
 Warner Pacific University's Mission:  Warner Pacific is a Christ-centered, urban, diverse, minority-serving, Hispanic-serving, liberal arts University dedicated to providing students with an education that prepares them to engage actively in a constantly changing world. Our hiring practices reflect our missional commitment to being a Christ-centered institution.
Warner Pacific University’s Commitment to Diversity: Warner Pacific University is an Equal Opportunity Employer that seeks a diverse workforce of committed Christians from all racial, ethnic, and socio-economic backgrounds. Warner Pacific University is committed to hiring staff and faculty with an intentionality that demonstrates the importance of having an employee community that reflects the racial and ethnic diversity of the students we serve.
Equal Employment Opportunity:
Warner Pacific provides equal opportunity for employment and advancement for all employees and applicants regardless of race, color, sex, gender, national origin, citizenship status, disability, age, genetic information, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status and any other status protected by laws and regulations to which Warner Pacific is subject.  All employment decisions, including hiring, promotions, compensation, benefits, transfers, and terminations are made in a manner that does not discriminate against individuals in the categories discussed above.  Because Warner Pacific is a Christian liberal arts University, the University exercises its legal right to hire Christian employees to fulfill its mission and purpose.
** NOTE: All job offers are contingent upon successfully passing a background check and completing all required paperwork.