Social Science Research Assistants
Social science research assistants support scientists and researchers studying human behavior, society, and social issues. They work in universities, government agencies, research firms, and nonprofits, handling tasks like data collection, laboratory analysis, quality control, and preparing research for publication. The role bridges fieldwork and office-based analysis across surveys, experiments, and observational studies.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against social science research assistants and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week includes managing datasets, entering and checking survey responses for accuracy, running quality control tests on collected information, and organizing research materials. Assistants may help conduct interviews or observations, transcribe recordings, perform basic statistical analysis, or prepare tables and charts for research papers. Tasks vary depending on the specific research project and stage, alternating between field activities and desk-based computer work.
Who this work suits
Holland code ICS. Investigative work is figuring things out: analysis, research, problem-solving. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You enjoy investigating how people behave and function in groups, and you're detail-oriented about organizing information systematically. If you prefer structured work with clear procedures and accuracy standards over creative problem-solving, this role aligns well with your strengths.
What it takes
Preparation: Considerable preparation (most need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a bachelor’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma | $60,460 | $69,090 | $84,780 | 100 |
| Delaware | $53,780 | $68,230 | $80,350 | 40 |
| Kansas | $54,970 | $67,740 | $67,740 | 170 |
| Georgia | $52,830 | $66,620 | $99,090 | 1,840 |
| Kentucky | $51,750 | $66,390 | $82,500 | 1,190 |
| Missouri | $49,750 | $65,940 | $66,090 | 750 |
| New Hampshire | $47,420 | $65,690 | $77,100 | 70 |
| Maryland | $54,820 | $65,550 | $84,490 | 700 |
| District of Columbia | $56,830 | $65,330 | $81,420 | 1,560 |
| Illinois | $47,720 | $64,890 | $74,700 | 250 |
| South Carolina | $50,070 | $64,490 | $79,740 | 500 |
| North Carolina | $52,130 | $63,710 | $67,680 | 2,930 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against social science research assistants and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 19-4061.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.