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Software Research Assistant Jobs in Portland, OR

Legacy Health

Research Assistant 2

Portland, OR

$25.83 - $36.93/hr

This is a mid-level research assistant position. It provides, under the overall supervision of a ... Familiarization with confocal microscopy and image analysis software (e.g. Image J). Experience ...

Legacy Health

Research Asst 2

Portland, OR · On-site

$25.83/hr

This is a mid-level research assistant position. It provides, under the overall supervision of a ... Familiarization with confocal microscopy and image analysis software (e.g. Image J). Experience ...

Legacy Health

Research Assistant 2

Portland, OR

$25.83 - $36.93/hr

This is a mid-level research assistant position. It provides, under the overall supervision of a ... Familiarization with confocal microscopy and image analysis software (e.g. Image J). Experience ...

Suvoda

Software Developer

Portland, OR

... software in the required timeframe * Assist with the creation of implementation design and ... Participate in the product research and development process by providing the engineering team with ...

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Software Research Assistant information

What are some typical challenges faced by a Software Research Assistant when collaborating with cross-functional teams?

Software Research Assistants often work with developers, data scientists, and project managers, which can present challenges such as aligning research goals with project timelines and managing differing technical perspectives. Effective communication is key to ensuring that research findings are clearly understood and actionable for team members with varying backgrounds. Additionally, balancing independent research tasks with collaborative meetings and feedback cycles is a common part of the role. Adapting to fast-changing project requirements and integrating feedback from multiple stakeholders are valuable skills for success.

Is computer science dead due to AI?

As a Software Research Assistant, it is clear that computer science remains a vital field, with AI driving new research areas and technological advancements. AI complements traditional computer science skills such as programming, algorithms, and data analysis, creating ongoing demand for professionals with these expertise. The field continues to evolve, requiring continuous learning and adaptation.

What is the difference between Software Research Assistant vs Software Developer?

AspectSoftware Research AssistantSoftware Developer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field; some roles may require research experienceBachelor's or higher in Computer Science or related field; coding skills essential
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academic institutions, or R&D departmentsTech companies, startups, or software firms
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research organizations, tech companiesSoftware development firms, IT departments, tech startups
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research-focused roles in software developmentDeveloping and maintaining software applications

The main difference between a Software Research Assistant and a Software Developer lies in their focus and work environment. Research assistants primarily support research projects, often in academic or research settings, while developers focus on creating and maintaining software products in industry. Both roles require a strong foundation in computer science, but their day-to-day tasks and career paths differ accordingly.

What qualifications do I need to be a research assistant?

To be a software research assistant, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field. Strong programming skills, familiarity with research tools and methodologies, and good analytical abilities are also important qualifications.

How much is a research assistant paid?

Research assistants in software research roles typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, depending on experience, education level, and the organization. Full-time positions may offer annual salaries ranging from $30,000 to $60,000. Compensation can also include benefits such as flexible schedules and access to research tools.

Is it hard to get a job as a research assistant?

Securing a research assistant position can be competitive and often requires relevant academic background, research skills, and sometimes prior experience. Strong analytical abilities, familiarity with research tools, and good communication skills can improve chances of obtaining such roles.

What are Software Research Assistants?

Software Research Assistants are professionals who support research projects in the field of software engineering or computer science. They assist with tasks such as coding, data analysis, literature reviews, and the testing of software systems under the supervision of senior researchers or faculty members. Their work often involves gathering and organizing data, developing experimental software, and contributing to scholarly publications. This role is common in academic, research, and development environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Software Research Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Software Research Assistant, you need a solid background in computer science fundamentals, programming, and data analysis, often supported by a relevant degree or coursework. Familiarity with programming languages such as Python, Java, or C++, as well as experience with research tools, version control systems like Git, and possibly machine learning frameworks, is usually required. Attention to detail, critical thinking, effective communication, and strong organizational skills help you contribute to collaborative research environments and handle complex information. These skills and qualities are crucial for effectively supporting research projects, ensuring data accuracy, and driving innovative software solutions.
What are popular job titles related to Software Research Assistant jobs in Portland, OR? For Software Research Assistant jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Software Research Assistant jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Software Research Assistant jobs in Portland, OR are:
Software Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Software Research Assistant job openings in Portland, OR as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 93% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.
TREC Research Assistant

TREC Research Assistant

Portland State University

Portland, OR • On-site

$20.50 - $28/hr

Full-time, Contractor

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Portland State University rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

384th of 612 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Position Announcement
Position Details
Proposed Start Date
07/01/2026
Rank
L - Research Assistant
Working Title
TREC Research Assistant
Position Number
D90561
Representation
AU - AAUP
Faculty Type
Fixed Term Research/Grant
Fixed Term End Date:
06/30/2027
Position FTE
Variable between .5 and 1.0 FTE, starting at 1.0 FTE
Term of Service
12 month
Position Summary
Brief Description of PSU/School/Dept
The Transportation Research and Education Center (TREC) at Portland State University (PSU) is a multidisciplinary hub for all things transportation. We are home to the Initiative for Bicycle and Pedestrian Innovation (IBPI), the data programs PORTAL and BikePed Portal, the Better Block PSU program, and PSU's membership in PacTrans, the Pacific Northwest Transportation Consortium. Our continuing goal is to produce impactful research and tools for transportation decision makers, expand the diversity and capacity of the workforce, and engage students and professionals through education, seminars, and participation in research.
Position Summary
The Research Assistant position is responsible for assisting the TREC Director, Research Associates, and Program Managers in carrying out applied research projects, including the following: data collection, management, and analysis; literature reviews; communicating research in writing and orally; and reports to funding agencies. The Research Assistant supports development of research funding proposals.
1. Essential Job Functions
  • Conduct literature reviews, including identifying and synthesizing existing research from a wide range of sources (academic journals, government reports, websites, etc.)
  • Gather data using a predetermined protocol through a variety of methods, including surveys, observation (in-person and video), interviews, focus groups, and secondary sources.
  • Perform basic qualitative and/or quantitative data analysis.
  • Gather materials and information and prepare regular status reports to funding agencies.
  • Draft and edit reports and articles on research projects.
  • Manage simple websites for projects that communicate project activities and outputs.
  • Gather materials to assist in preparing research funding proposals.

2. Other Job Functions
  • Assist at large in-person TREC events, including set-up, registration, and clean-up. Staff information table at events.

This is an in-person on campus position. Up to one day remote, after training period and with the approval of the supervisor.
Primary Activity
R - Research
Minimum Qualifications
Master's degree in a field directly related to transportation planning, policy, or engineering.
  • Ability to write in a clear, direct style.
  • Exceptional attention to detail and ability to plan and manage multiple projects to meet critical deadlines.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills (written and oral) with a wide range of people and organizations
  • Collaborative. Ability to work as part of a team.
  • Flexible. Ability to adjust work tasks and deadlines to meet changingpriorities.
  • Experience with Google Docs, Sheets, Slides, Sites, and Calendar; Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint; and Adobe Acrobat.
  • Knowledge of key multimodal transportation concepts
  • Experience with descriptive statistics and bivariate statistical analysis (e.g., t-tests, Chi-square). Experience creating tables and graphs to display quantitative data.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience in data collection, including survey administration, interviews, and/or focus groups. Experience conducting literature reviews for research.
  • Experience with data analysis and visualization software, such as R, SPSS, Tableau, etc.

Key Cultural Competencies
  • Creates an environment that acknowledges, encourages and celebrates differences.
  • Functions and communicates effectively and respectfully within the context of varying beliefs, behaviors, orientations, identities and cultural backgrounds.
  • Seeks opportunities to gain experience working and collaborating in diverse, multicultural, and inclusive settings with a willingness to change for continual improvement
  • Adheres to all PSU's policies including the policies on Prohibited Discrimination & Harassment and the Professional Standards of Conduct.

Environmental Stewardship
Contributes to a culture of environmental stewardship, practices resource conservation, and actively works toward achieving long-term sustainability goals.
Professional Standards of Conduct
At Portland State University, all employees are expected to conduct themselves in a professional manner which maintains a safe, respectful, and productive environment for faculty, students, administrators, and staff. It is the responsibility of every member of the Portland State University community to conduct themselves in accordance with our PSU Professional Standards of Conduct which are available at https://www.pdx.edu/human-resources/professional-standards-conduct-policy.
Total Compensation Range & Benefits Statement
Salary is dependent on several factors, and new employees will typically start around the Q1 level to allow for later growth within the salary band. PSU has a structured process for determining starting compensation, taking into account years of related experience, applicable skills, knowledge and abilities, market parity, and internal equity.
The starting annual salary for this position will be $68,016 at 1.0 FTE, but may be negotiated above this rate dependent upon the factors above, the budget of the hiring department, and approval from HR.
An excellent benefits package includes 95% premium paid healthcare; a generous retirement and vacation package; and reduced tuition rates for employee, spouse or dependent at any of the Oregon University System schools.
Please visit our total compensation calculator to see the full value of our benefits package.
Application Instructions
Additional Information
Please provide a writing sample that includes at least one of the following elements: review of existing research; explanation of research methods; analysis of data (qualitative or quantitative); policy evaluation; or historical documentation and analysis. This may be a document written for a university course or in a professional setting. If the sample is co-authored, the applicant should clearly explain what they were responsible for. If AI was used in preparing or editing the writing sample, please explain how.
This is an in-person on campus position. Up to one day remote, after training period and with the approval of the supervisor.
Additional Application Instructions (deadlines, etc.)
Please list the names, telephone numbers and email addressesfor three professional references that may be contacted. References will be contacted only if you are selected as a finalist.
Does this position require the employee to drive a motor vehicle?
No
Background Check Required
Yes
If you have questions
Please contact asktrec@pdx.edu
Search Details
Posting Close Date
Projected Close Date for Posting
Open Until Filled
Application screening begins
06/15/2026
Will you consider an ABD applicant for this position?
No
If yes, when must the degree be earned?
Not applicable
If necessary, would you be willing to sponsor the succcessful applicant for permanent US residence, now or in the future?
No

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About Portland State University

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Portland State University (PSU) is a renowned institution located in Portland, Oregon. With a commitment to excellence and innovation, PSU offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, preparing students for successful careers. The university's faculty members are experts in their fields, providing a high-quality education in a dynamic learning environment. PSU is deeply connected to its community, actively engaging in initiatives that address local and global challenges. With a focus on sustainability, social justice, and community outreach, PSU strives to make a positive impact in Portland and beyond. Situated in a vibrant city known for its livability and surrounded by the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest, PSU offers students a unique and enriching educational experience that equips them to shape a better future.

Industry

Education

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Portland, OR, US

Year founded

1946

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