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.
Common Job Titles
- Data Analyst
- Field Interviewer
- Research Associate
- Research Fellow
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeFormulate research objectives and strategic survey plans balancing client needs, methodological rigor, and resource constraints.Advanced
- KnowledgeAnalyze survey data using statistical software and quantitative methods to identify patterns, trends, and meaningful insights for research objectives.Proficient
- KnowledgeDesign questionnaires and survey instruments incorporating research objectives, question wording principles, and validation methods.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate sampling methodologies and data collection approaches to ensure statistical validity and minimize bias in research design.Proficient
- KnowledgeInterpret complex statistical results and research findings for diverse stakeholders including clients, management, and interdisciplinary teams.Proficient
- KnowledgeApply advanced statistical techniques and analytical tools using SPSS, SAS, R, and Python for multivariate analysis and data modeling.Proficient
- KnowledgeAssess data quality and survey implementation processes to maintain methodological standards and ensure reliable research outcomes.Proficient
- MindsetIntegrate client consultation with technical research requirements when communicating complex methodological concepts to non-technical audiences.Proficient
- MindsetAdvocate best practices in survey methodology and ethical research standards when collaborating with interdisciplinary teams and external organizations.Proficient
- KnowledgeDevelop data collection protocols and field operations strategies coordinating survey teams using CATI systems, web platforms, and mobile technologies.Proficient
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Survey Researchers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
7,720
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $36,950. 25th percentile: U.S. $46,110. 50th percentile: U.S. $63,380. 75th percentile: U.S. $85,370. 90th percentile: U.S. $118,730. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $36,950 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $118,730 |
| Workers on average earn | $73,470 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- English Language4.4/5
- Mathematics4.3/5
- Customer and Personal Service3.5/5
- Administration and Management3.4/5
- Computers and Electronics3.3/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- C++
- Extensible markup language XML
- IBM SPSS Statistics
- JavaScript
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft Active Server Pages ASP
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Project
- Microsoft Teams
- Microsoft Word
- Oracle Java
- Oracle PeopleSoft
- Perl
- Python
- R
- SAS
- Structured query language SQL
- Tableau
- The MathWorks MATLAB
- Zoom
Technology Skills
- Acarda CallAssist
- Acarda ForbiddenCalls
- Adobe ColdFusion
- Apian SurveyPro
- Argus Perceptual Mapper
- Askia Design
- Askia Vista
- Askia Web
Tools & Equipment
- Laser printers
- Notebook computers
- Optical character readers
- Personal computers
- Personal digital assistants PDA
- Scanners
- Tablet computers