Social Science Research Assistants
O*NET 19-4061.00 · SOC 19-4061
Social Science Research Assistant is a solid career choice. Median pay is $62k a year with +5% projected growth through 2035 (about as fast as average) and about 4,900 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Conduct interviews or surveys to gather social science data
- →Code and enter survey responses into statistical databases
- →Search academic literature and compile research background materials
- →Clean and verify datasets to ensure accuracy before analysis
- →Assist researchers in preparing tables and charts for reports
Education & How to Get In
A bachelor's degree is the standard entry point for Social Science Research Assistant roles. Related majors and internship experience during college significantly improve your chances. Many employers also value relevant certifications or project portfolios alongside the degree.
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Work Environment
Analytical, research labs, offices, or remote
Independent, focused deep work with periodic team check-ins
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Social Science Research Assistant involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Social Science Research Assistant?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Social Science Research Assistant Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Social Science Research Assistants is projected to grow 5% from 2025 to 2035, about as fast as average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·44% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target
- ·25% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Social Science Research Assistant make?
The median Social Science Research Assistant earns $62k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Social Science Research Assistant jobs?
Our model puts Social Science Research Assistant at 44 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 44% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target; 25% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace.
Is Social Science Research Assistant a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 5% between 2025 and 2035, which is about as fast as average. That works out to roughly 4,900 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Social Science Research Assistant?
A bachelor's degree is the standard entry point for Social Science Research Assistant roles, and relevant internships matter as much as the subject.
How long does it take to become a Social Science Research Assistant?
Typically about four years, typically a bachelor's degree. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 4 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Social Science Research Assistant career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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