Position
Salary

How much does a Researcher make?

The average salary for a Researcher is $94,473 per year in the US.

Researchers play an important role in gathering information and insights. They work in various fields, including science, social science, and technology. These professionals often earn a good income. The average yearly salary for researchers stands at around $94,473. This number can vary based on experience, education, and the specific industry.

Here are some common salaries researchers might earn:

  • Entry-level researchers can expect to earn about $30,000 per year.
  • With a few years of experience, salaries can rise to around $48,674.
  • Experienced researchers often earn between $67,347 and $86,021 annually.
  • Top-tier researchers with extensive experience can earn over $100,000 per year.
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What are the highest paying cities for a Researcher?

Researchers in San Francisco, CA, enjoy the highest average salaries, making it a prime location for such positions. The competitive environment in tech hubs like San Jose and Seattle also provides excellent compensation packages. Other cities like Austin, Nashville, and Boston offer attractive pay, with average salaries exceeding $115,000.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Researcher jobs, highlighting San Francisco, CA with the highest at $168,995 and San Diego, CA with the lowest at $100,762.
  1. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $168,995
    In San Francisco, professionals thrive in a vibrant tech environment. Companies like Google and Salesforce offer cutting-edge opportunities. Working here means engaging with innovative projects and a dynamic team.
    Find Researcher jobs in San Francisco, CA


  2. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $145,753
    San Jose is at the heart of Silicon Valley. Here, tech giants like Apple and Intel provide enriching research experiences. Opportunities for collaboration with industry leaders are plentiful.
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  3. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $135,111
    Seattle is known for its thriving tech scene. Microsoft and Amazon offer numerous research roles. Professionals enjoy a blend of innovation and diverse experiences.
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  4. Huntsville, AL
    Average Salary: $127,245
    Huntsville hosts key aerospace and defense companies. Working here means contributing to important national projects. The research environment is both challenging and rewarding.
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  5. Austin, TX
    Average Salary: $119,535
    Austin is a tech hub with a vibrant culture. Companies like Dell and IBM provide excellent research opportunities. Professionals enjoy a laid-back atmosphere with high-impact projects.
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  6. Nashville, TN
    Average Salary: $119,357
    Nashville offers a mix of tech and creative research. With companies like Amazon and Vanderbilt University, professionals find unique opportunities. The city's friendly culture enhances the work experience.
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  7. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $115,919
    Boston is a center for education and research. Leading universities and tech companies like Harvard and MIT offer rich experiences. Professionals engage in groundbreaking work.
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  8. Durham, NC
    Average Salary: $115,577
    Durham is home to Research Triangle Park. Companies like IBM and GlaxoSmithKline provide many research jobs. The collaborative environment fosters innovation.
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  9. Jacksonville, FL
    Average Salary: $109,905
    Jacksonville offers a growing tech scene. With companies like Fidelity and Lockheed Martin, research roles are diverse. The city provides a supportive environment for career growth.
    Find Researcher jobs in Jacksonville, FL


  10. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $100,762
    San Diego's tech industry is booming. Companies like Qualcomm and Illumina offer exciting research positions. Professionals enjoy a mild climate and beautiful surroundings.
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What are the best companies a Researcher can work for?

Looking for a research job? Consider top companies like OpenAI, BTS Software Solutions, and Apple, where researchers enjoy high salaries. OpenAI leads with an impressive average salary, making it a prime choice for those in the field. Other notable companies include Palo Alto Networks and Amazon.com, offering competitive pay packages.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Researcher jobs, highlighting OpenAI with the highest at $364,375 and Microsoft with the lowest at $138,222.
  1. OpenAI
    Average Salary: $364,375
    OpenAI offers exciting Researcher jobs with the chance to lead groundbreaking AI research. Locations include San Francisco, CA, and Redmond, WA.


  2. BTS Software Solutions
    Average Salary: $255,000
    BTS Software Solutions provides Research positions with a focus on advanced tech projects. They operate in multiple cities, including Atlanta, GA, and Austin, TX.


  3. Apple
    Average Salary: $222,113
    Apple offers opportunities for Researchers to innovate in tech and design. They have locations in Cupertino, CA, and Austin, TX.


  4. Palo Alto Networks
    Average Salary: $189,022
    Palo Alto Networks hires Researchers to improve cybersecurity. They are based in several cities, including Palo Alto, CA, and Austin, TX.


  5. Amazon.com
    Average Salary: $179,333
    Amazon.com employs Researchers to explore new technologies. They have offices in Seattle, WA, and Austin, TX.


  6. Morgan Stanley
    Average Salary: $163,115
    Morgan Stanley seeks Researchers to work on financial technology. Locations include New York, NY, and Austin, TX.


  7. Ursus
    Average Salary: $145,159
    Ursus offers Researcher positions focusing on environmental tech. They have offices in Denver, CO, and Washington, DC.


  8. Deloitte
    Average Salary: $142,000
    Deloitte has Research jobs that span various industries. They operate in multiple cities, including New York, NY, and Chicago, IL.


  9. TikTok
    Average Salary: $141,365
    TikTok hires Researchers to innovate in social media tech. They have offices in Los Angeles, CA, and Culver City, CA.


  10. Microsoft
    Average Salary: $138,222
    Microsoft offers Research positions across various tech fields. Locations include Redmond, WA, and New York, NY.

How to earn more as a Researcher?

Becoming a high-earning researcher involves more than just conducting experiments. It means focusing on certain areas that can boost your income and job satisfaction. Start by gaining specialized skills that set you apart from the competition. This can mean learning new technologies or advanced research methods. Building a strong network within your field also helps. Attending conferences and joining professional organizations keeps you connected and informed about the latest trends.

Experience matters. Take on projects that challenge you and expand your skill set. Look for opportunities to publish your findings in reputable journals. This not only adds credibility to your resume but also opens doors to higher-paying positions. Don't hesitate to seek mentorship from experienced researchers. Their guidance can provide valuable insights and help you navigate your career path. Researchers who actively seek out these opportunities often find themselves earning more and achieving greater professional success.

Here are five key factors to consider for earning more as a researcher:

  1. Specialized Skills: Learn new technologies and research methods that are in demand.
  2. Networking: Attend conferences and join professional organizations to stay connected.
  3. Experience: Take on challenging projects to build a strong portfolio.
  4. Publications: Aim to publish your work in reputable journals to increase your credibility.
  5. Mentorship: Seek guidance from experienced researchers to gain valuable insights.

Currently 483 Researcher job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Researcher in the US?

Learn what a Researcher does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Researcher today.
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Researcher
483 Job Openings