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.

SOC: 19-3022.00

Common Job Titles

Data AnalystField InterviewerResearch AssociateResearch Fellow

What You'll Need to Succeed

AI-generated

Key competencies for this occupation at a glance

  • KnowledgeFormulate research objectives and strategic survey plans balancing client needs, methodological rigor, and resource constraints.
  • KnowledgeAnalyze survey data using statistical software and quantitative methods to identify patterns, trends, and meaningful insights for research objectives.
  • KnowledgeDesign questionnaires and survey instruments incorporating research objectives, question wording principles, and validation methods.
  • KnowledgeEvaluate sampling methodologies and data collection approaches to ensure statistical validity and minimize bias in research design.
  • KnowledgeInterpret complex statistical results and research findings for diverse stakeholders including clients, management, and interdisciplinary teams.
  • KnowledgeApply advanced statistical techniques and analytical tools using SPSS, SAS, R, and Python for multivariate analysis and data modeling.
  • KnowledgeAssess data quality and survey implementation processes to maintain methodological standards and ensure reliable research outcomes.
  • MindsetIntegrate client consultation with technical research requirements when communicating complex methodological concepts to non-technical audiences.
  • MindsetAdvocate best practices in survey methodology and ethical research standards when collaborating with interdisciplinary teams and external organizations.
  • KnowledgeDevelop data collection protocols and field operations strategies coordinating survey teams using CATI systems, web platforms, and mobile technologies.
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

MetricU.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 XMLIBM SPSS StatisticsJavaScriptMicrosoft AccessMicrosoft Active Server Pages ASPMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft ProjectMicrosoft TeamsMicrosoft WordOracle JavaOracle PeopleSoftPerlPythonRSASStructured query language SQLTableauThe MathWorks MATLABZoom

Technology Skills

Acarda CallAssistAcarda ForbiddenCallsAdobe ColdFusionApian SurveyProArgus Perceptual MapperAskia DesignAskia VistaAskia Web

Tools & Equipment

Laser printersNotebook computersOptical character readersPersonal computersPersonal digital assistants PDAScannersTablet computers