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Science

Survey Researchers

Plan, develop, or conduct surveys. May analyze and interpret the meaning of survey data, determine survey objectives, or suggest or test question wording. Includes social scientists who primarily design questionnaires or supervise survey teams.

Median salary

$63,380

Typical range

$37k – $119k

Job outlook

See national outlook

AI exposure

Plan a path to Survey Researchers

Education

Typical entry: Master's degree

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Typical progression

  1. Survey Researchers Intern

    Internship

    $36,000

    ~4 mos to advance

  2. Junior Survey Researchers

    Entry / Junior

    $36,950

    ~2 yrs to advance

  3. Survey Researchers

    Established

    $63,380

    ~3 yrs to advance

  4. Senior Survey Researchers

    Senior

    $91,055

Internships are a common on-ramp here — they speed up landing that first role and improve your odds, which is why the Safe and High-ceiling plans build one in.

Key skills

A typical day

  • Conduct surveys and collect data, using methods such as interviews, questionnaires, focus groups, market analysis surveys, public opinion polls, literature reviews, and file reviews.
  • Prepare and present summaries and analyses of survey data, including tables, graphs, and fact sheets that describe survey techniques and results.
  • Consult with clients to identify survey needs and specific requirements, such as special samples.
  • Determine and specify details of survey projects, including sources of information, procedures to be used, and the design of survey instruments and materials.
  • Support, plan, and coordinate operations for single or multiple surveys.

Fields of study

Any field

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