Life As a Survey Researcher
Position Description 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.
Daily Life Of a Survey Researcher
- Review, classify, and record survey data in preparation for computer analysis.
- Monitor and evaluate survey progress and performance, using sample disposition reports and response rate calculations.
- Support, plan, and coordinate operations for single or multiple surveys.
- Direct and review the work of staff members, including survey support staff and interviewers who gather survey data.
- Conduct surveys and collect data, using methods such as interviews, questionnaires, focus groups, market analysis surveys, public opinion polls, literature reviews, and file reviews.
- Produce documentation of the questionnaire development process, data collection methods, sampling designs, and decisions related to sample statistical weighting.
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Skills Needed to be a Survey Researcher
When polled, Survey Researchers say the following skills are most frequently used in their jobs:
Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Writing: Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Complex Problem Solving: Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Related Job Titles
- Statistician
- Survey Questionnaire Designer
- Survey Methodologist
- Survey Research Center Director
- Field Interviewer
Survey Researcher Employment Estimates
In 2016, there was an estimated number of 14,600 jobs in the United States for Survey Researcher. New jobs are being produced at a rate of 2.1% which is below the national average. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 300 new jobs for Survey Researcher by 2026. The BLS estimates 1,400 yearly job openings in this field.
The states with the most job growth for Survey Researcher are Tennessee, Colorado, and Oregon. Watch out if you plan on working in District of Columbia, Ohio, or Kansas. These states have the worst job growth for this type of profession.
Survey Researcher Average Salary
The average yearly salary of a Survey Researcher ranges between $29,620 and $103,400.
Survey Researchers who work in Maryland, North Carolina, or New York, make the highest salaries.
Below is a list of the median annual salaries for Survey Researchers in different U.S. states.
| State | Annual Mean Salary |
|---|---|
| Alaska | $59,270 |
| Arizona | $53,660 |
| California | $75,150 |
| Colorado | $69,530 |
| Connecticut | $51,740 |
| Delaware | $61,890 |
| District of Columbia | $73,690 |
| Hawaii | $36,920 |
| Illinois | $57,560 |
| Indiana | $59,300 |
| Kansas | $51,640 |
| Kentucky | $57,050 |
| Louisiana | $45,210 |
| Maine | $56,890 |
| Maryland | $90,920 |
| Massachusetts | $64,950 |
| Michigan | $64,400 |
| Minnesota | $62,870 |
| Missouri | $52,450 |
| Nebraska | $34,230 |
| Nevada | $35,410 |
| New Jersey | $76,040 |
| New Mexico | $39,010 |
| New York | $74,130 |
| North Carolina | $80,960 |
| Ohio | $59,510 |
| Oregon | $71,580 |
| Pennsylvania | $60,810 |
| Tennessee | $45,240 |
| Texas | $60,460 |
| Utah | $53,020 |
| Virginia | $59,410 |
| Washington | $66,150 |
| Wisconsin | $48,010 |
| Wyoming | $71,050 |
Tools & Technologies Used by Survey Researchers
Although they’re not necessarily needed for all jobs, the following technologies are used by many Survey Researchers:
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft Office
- JavaScript
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Web browser software
- Python
- Microsoft Access
- Email software
- Word processing software
- Microsoft Project
- Spreadsheet software
- Database software
- Structured query language SQL
- The MathWorks MATLAB
- SAS
- Extensible markup language XML
- IBM SPSS Statistics
- Oracle PeopleSoft
- R
How do I Become a Survey Researcher?
What kind of Survey Researcher requirements are there?
How many years of work experience do I need?
Who Employs Survey Researchers?
Survey Researchers work in the following industries:
Related Careers
Those thinking about becoming a Survey Researcher might also be interested in the following careers:
Are you already one of the many Survey Researcher in the United States? If you’re thinking about changing careers, these fields are worth exploring:
References:
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More about our data sources and methodologies.
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