How to become survey researcherseducation, training, experience and the steps to enter
Median annual pay
$69,460
25th–75th pct. $51,270–$99,760
Top pay (est.)
$170,100
Top 10% $130,860
Pay in 5 years
$73,300est.
2031
Pay in 10 years
$77,400est.
$66,600–$89,900
Outlook score
28/100
★☆☆☆☆ Weak
AI replacement risk
99%
Very high
Job growth (10 yr)
−4.8%
600 openings / yr
How to become survey researchers
Typical education
Master's degree
BLS
Related experience
None
On-the-job training
None
A step-by-step guide for this occupation is being prepared. The education, training and experience data above show the typical path.
Skills, education and requirements for Survey Researchers
Key skills
O*NET skill level ratings (0–7).
Key knowledge areas
What the work involves
Processing InformationOrganizing, Planning, and Prioritizing WorkAnalyzing Data or InformationCommunicating with People Outside the OrganizationMaking Decisions and Solving ProblemsCommunicating with Supervisors, Peers, or SubordinatesInterpreting the Meaning of Information for OthersUpdating and Using Relevant Knowledge
Important abilities
Written ExpressionInductive ReasoningOral ExpressionDeductive ReasoningWritten ComprehensionOral Comprehension
Education of workers
Training before entry
Related work experience
Job Zone 5 — extensive preparation needed (O*NET)
Difficulty of entry: ★★★☆☆ Moderate (from education, training, experience and Job Zone)
Career path and how to earn more as survey researchers
Career-path guidance is being prepared. Pay by percentile is shown in the Pay section.
Pay and employment figures are national statistics. Projected pay, outlook scores and AI replacement risk are estimates from the Shigoto Zukan model, not guarantees. To request a correction, use the contact form. How to read the data
Sources: BLS OEWS May 2025; BLS Employment Projections 2025–35; O*NET 31.0 Database by USDOL/ETA (CC BY 4.0), modified by Shigoto Zukan. Pay ranges, projections and scores are Shigoto Zukan estimates.