Life As a Survey Researcher
Career 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.
A Day in the Life of a Survey Researcher
- Conduct research to gather information about survey topics.
- Conduct surveys and collect data, using methods such as interviews, questionnaires, focus groups, market analysis surveys, public opinion polls, literature reviews, and file reviews.
- Review, classify, and record survey data in preparation for computer analysis.
- Determine and specify details of survey projects, including sources of information, procedures to be used, and the design of survey instruments and materials.
- Direct and review the work of staff members, including survey support staff and interviewers who gather survey data.
- Produce documentation of the questionnaire development process, data collection methods, sampling designs, and decisions related to sample statistical weighting.
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Survey Researcher Skills
Below is a list of the skills most Survey Researchers say are important on the job.
Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
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.
Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
Complex Problem Solving: Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Other Survey Researcher Job Titles
- Pollster
- Survey Questionnaire Designer
- Study Director
- Survey Research Associate
- Survey Methodologist
Is There Going to be Demand for Survey Researchers?
There were about 14,600 jobs for Survey Researcher in 2016 (in the United States). 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. There will be an estimated 1,400 positions for Survey Researcher per year.
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.
Do Survey Researchers Make A Lot Of Money?
Survey Researchers make between $29,620 and $103,400 a year.
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 |
What Tools do Survey Researchers Use?
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 to Become a Survey Researcher
Are there Survey Researchers education requirements?
How Long Does it Take to Become a Survey Researcher?
Survey Researchers Sector
Below are examples of industries where Survey Researchers work:
You May Also Be Interested In…
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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