Social Science Research Assistants
Job Zone 4 - Considerable preparation needed
Assist social scientists in laboratory, survey, and other social science research. May help prepare findings for publication and assist in laboratory analysis, quality control, or data management.
Median pay: $61,990/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)
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: +4.4% projected growth, 2024–2034 — about as fast as average.
About 5,200 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.
• Design and create special programs for tasks such as statistical analysis and data entry and cleaning.
• Provide assistance with the preparation of project-related reports, manuscripts, and presentations.
• Prepare tables, graphs, fact sheets, and written reports summarizing research results.
• Perform descriptive and multivariate statistical analyses of data, using computer software.
• Verify the accuracy and validity of data entered in databases, correcting any errors.
• Develop and implement research quality control procedures.
• Prepare, manipulate, and manage extensive databases.
• Perform data entry and other clerical work as required for project completion.
What's the median pay for Social Science Research Assistants?
The median pay for Social Science Research Assistants is $61,990 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Social Science Research Assistants?
Employment for Social Science Research Assistants is projected to change +4.4% from 2024 to 2034 - about as fast as average.
What education is typically required for Social Science Research Assistants?
Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree.
How many job openings are there each year for Social Science Research Assistants?
About 5,200 openings per year, on average, over the decade.