How to become a survey researcher

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.

Steps to get there

Most employers expect most of these occupations require graduate school. for example, they may require a master's degree, and some require a ph.d., m.d., or j.d. (law degree)..Extensive skill, knowledge, and experience are needed for these occupations. Many require more than five years of experience. For example, surgeons must complete four years of college and an additional five to seven years of specialized medical training to be able to do their job.

What survey researchers 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.
• 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.

Skills that matter most

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

Is survey researcher a good career?

On the numbers, this job pays above the typical job. Median pay is 36% above the all-occupation median. Whether it fits you depends on the work itself, the schooling you are willing to do and where you want to live.

Where it pays most

• Minnesota $104,220
• District of Columbia $102,390
• Michigan $101,550
• North Carolina $96,560
• New Jersey $95,580

Survey Researchers salary by state and city

Sources: O*NET® 31.0 (CC BY 4.0, USDOL/ETA) and BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025.