Survey Researchers
O*NET 19-3022.00 · SOC 19-3022
Survey Researcher is a risky career choice. Median pay is $69k a year with -4.8% projected growth through 2035 (declining) and about 600 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Design questionnaires to collect data on public opinions or behaviors.
- →Select representative sample populations for surveys using statistical methods.
- →Conduct telephone, online, or in-person interviews with survey participants.
- →Analyze survey response data to identify trends and patterns.
- →Write research reports summarizing survey findings for clients or agencies.
Education & How to Get In
Survey Researcher roles typically require a master's degree, doctorate, or professional degree. This is a long-term investment, expect 6–10 years of post-secondary education, but the depth of expertise commands strong compensation and career stability.
Get Started Learning
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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 Survey Researcher involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Survey Researcher?
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 Survey Researcher Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Survey Researchers is projected to decline 4.8% from 2025 to 2035, declining for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·40% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target
- ·32% 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 Survey Researcher make?
The median Survey Researcher earns $69k 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 Survey Researcher jobs?
Our model puts Survey Researcher at 41 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 40% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target; 32% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace.
Is Survey Researcher a growing field?
Employment is projected to shrink 4.8% between 2025 and 2035, which is declining. That works out to roughly 600 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Survey Researcher?
Survey Researcher roles generally require a master's, doctorate or professional degree, so plan for graduate study rather than a bachelor's alone.
How long does it take to become a Survey Researcher?
Typically six to ten years, typically a master's, doctorate or professional degree. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 5 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Survey Researcher 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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