Survey Researchers
Survey researchers design and conduct surveys to gather data on opinions, behaviors, and characteristics. They develop questionnaires, analyze results, and interpret findings for government agencies, universities, research firms, and private companies. This work involves planning survey objectives, testing question wording, and sometimes supervising survey teams.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against survey researchers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A survey researcher might spend part of the week refining survey questions based on pilot testing feedback, then analyzing response data using statistical software. They could attend meetings to discuss client objectives, review completed surveys for quality control, and prepare reports interpreting what the data reveals. Administrative tasks include managing survey budgets and coordinating with fieldwork teams collecting responses.
Who this work suits
Holland code ICE. Investigative work is figuring things out: analysis, research, problem-solving. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to enjoy solving problems systematically and have a strong attention to detail—essential for designing precise questions and spotting data patterns. You're comfortable working with numbers and processes, preferring structure and clear methodologies to guide your work.
What it takes
Preparation: Extensive preparation (graduate degree and/or many years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a master’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota | $99,940 | $104,220 | $113,260 | 340 |
| District of Columbia | $81,770 | $102,390 | $137,040 | 150 |
| Michigan | $76,210 | $101,550 | $125,610 | 150 |
| North Carolina | $66,110 | $96,560 | $127,320 | 350 |
| New Jersey | $77,970 | $95,580 | $108,840 | 100 |
| Wisconsin | $73,650 | $92,660 | $118,170 | 60 |
| Colorado | $69,980 | $89,870 | $103,400 | 110 |
| Connecticut | $67,420 | $88,320 | $124,070 | 110 |
| New York | $73,290 | $86,890 | $106,440 | 380 |
| Wyoming | $65,730 | $84,360 | $84,360 | 40 |
| Maryland | $62,520 | $84,030 | $113,040 | 390 |
| California | $68,840 | $83,520 | $119,090 | 1,180 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Insights Professional Certification (IPC) — Insights Association
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 survey researchers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 19-3022.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.