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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.

What you’d do

  • 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.
  • Monitor and evaluate survey progress and performance, using sample disposition reports and response rate calculations.
  • Collaborate with other researchers in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of surveys.
  • Conduct research to gather information about survey topics.

Skills that matter

  • Active Listening
  • Critical Thinking
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Speaking
  • Writing
  • Mathematics

How to get there

Extensive preparation: most need graduate school, such as a master's degree or higher

Also called

  • Research Associate
  • Research Scientist
  • Survey Methodologist
  • Survey Researcher
  • Data Analyst
  • Market Survey Representative

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