Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists

Job Zone 4 - Considerable preparation needed

Research conditions in local, regional, national, or online markets. Gather information to determine potential sales of a product or service, or plan a marketing or advertising campaign. May gather information on competitors, prices, sales, and methods of marketing and distribution. May employ search marketing tactics, analyze web metrics, and develop recommendations to increase search engine ranking and visibility to target markets.

Pay & job outlook

Median pay: $78,760/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)

$43,390$155,480

Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.

Job outlook: +6.7% projected growth, 2024–2034 — faster than average.

About 87,200 openings per year, on average, over the decade.

Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.

Top skills

WritingCritical ThinkingReading ComprehensionSpeakingComplex Problem SolvingActive ListeningJudgment and Decision MakingActive LearningMathematicsMonitoring

Top knowledge areas

English LanguageCustomer and Personal ServiceSales and MarketingMathematicsAdministration and ManagementCommunications and MediaAdministrativeComputers and Electronics

Core tasks

• Prepare reports of findings, illustrating data graphically and translating complex findings into written text.

• Collect and analyze data on customer demographics, preferences, needs, and buying habits to identify potential markets and factors affecting product demand.

• Conduct research on consumer opinions and marketing strategies, collaborating with marketing professionals, statisticians, pollsters, and other professionals.

• Measure and assess customer and employee satisfaction.

• Devise and evaluate methods and procedures for collecting data, such as surveys, opinion polls, or questionnaires, or arrange to obtain existing data.

• Measure the effectiveness of marketing, advertising, and communications programs and strategies.

• Seek and provide information to help companies determine their position in the marketplace.

• Forecast and track marketing and sales trends, analyzing collected data.

Frequently asked questions

What's the median pay for Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists?

The median pay for Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists is $78,760 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

What's the job outlook for Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists?

Employment for Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists is projected to change +6.7% from 2024 to 2034 - faster than average.

What education is typically required for Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists?

Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree.

How many job openings are there each year for Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists?

About 87,200 openings per year, on average, over the decade.