Why choose the Social Research Centre?

The Social Research Centre is Australia’s largest dedicated social research and evaluation agency. Chances are, you’ve come across one of our surveys. Our team includes research and evaluation specialists, statisticians and survey methodologists , data scientists and programmers, and Australia’s only probability-based online panel – Life in Australia™.

For almost 25 years, we’ve brought together experts and innovative thinkers to tackle society's biggest challenges. We conduct research that truly matters – projects that drive change, shape policy conversations, and leave a lasting positive impact on Australian communities.

About the role

We’re looking for early-career researchers to join our research and evaluation teams as Graduate Researchers. These are permanent, full-time positions for recent graduates who want to build a career in applied social research – not just study it in theory.

You will support real projects for government and public-interest clients, working across the research cycle from design through to analysis and reporting. You’ll be placed into one of our research teams and work alongside experienced researchers from day one.

Please note: this is not a policy officer, communications, academic, market research, UX or fully remote role. It is a hands-on applied research position based primarily in our Melbourne CBD office.

What we offer?

• Hands-on industry experience: Work on interesting and impactful projects
• Training and development: Build your skills and knowledge with tailored learning opportunities
• Supportive mentoring: Work alongside experienced professionals who’ll guide you, give feedback, and support your growth
• Career path: Join a world-class research team where you can continue to build experience and skills over time
• Perks: Access to our employee referral bonus, annual flu vaccinations, Employee Assistance Program, and regular social events

What you’ll be doing:

We’re a dynamic company where every day is different. You will support mixed-methods social research and evaluation projects, contributing to work such as:

• Research design: Assist with developing quantitative and qualitative research materials including questionnaires, discussion guides and participant information sheets
• Hands-on fieldwork: Gain real-world experience with helping run surveys, interviews, and focus groups that uncover real human stories.
• Data skills: Analyse and interpret quantitative and qualitative data and translate data into meaningful findings.
• Reporting: Help prepare reports, presentations and other written outputs for clients and stakeholders
• Project management: Plan and manage research projects from start to finish.
• Stakeholder management: Collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders. Build your experience in client-facing work.

Who should apply?

We’re looking for curious, motivated graduates who want to make an impact through applied research and evaluation. To be considered, you must meet all of the following eligibility criteria:

• Completed degree: You have completed (not currently studying) a degree in Social Sciences, Psychology, Sociology, Public Health, Public Policy, Criminology, or a closely related social research discipline within the last two years

• Work rights: You are an Australian or New Zealand citizen or an Australian permanent resident. Visa sponsorship is not available for this role
• Location: You are based in Melbourne or Victoria and able to attend the Melbourne CBD office at least three days per week under SRC’s hybrid working model

Applications that do not meet these criteria will not be progressed, regardless of other qualifications or experience.

What we’re looking for

• Eye for detail: You spot the small things that matter and love solving problems.
• Organised and efficient: You manage your time well and can handle multiple tasks.
• Team player and independent worker: You work well with others but are also great at getting things done on your own.
• Cool under pressure: Deadlines don’t stress you out—you stay focused and helpful even when things get busy.
• Positive and adaptable: You bring energy, flexibility, and a “can-do” attitude to every challenge.
• Eager to learn: You’re motivated to pick up new skills, grow, and take on new opportunities.
• Ready to help: You’re happy to jump in wherever needed to support the team and get the job done.
• Passion for social research: You care about making a difference and want to build a career that creates positive change.

Bonus points if you have:

• A basic understanding of research, survey and / or statistical methods

• Familiarity with research software such as SPSS, Stata, Q Research Software, R, NVivo, or Excel

How to Apply

Please submit the following via the advertised recruitment channels only. Applications submitted by email will not be accepted.

• Your CV
• Your academic transcript (applications without a transcript will not be considered)
• A one-page pitch that covers the following:

1. Why you’re the perfect fit for our team?
2. What exposure you have had to (quantitative and/or qualitative) research and evaluation approaches, methods or tools?
3. Why are you interested in applied social research specifically, rather than adjacent fields such as academia, policy, communications or market research?

One more thing: If you’ve read this far, please include the word ‘sunflower’ somewhere in your pitch.

Important: cover letters that do not address these points, or that appear to be generic or AI-generated without genuine personal reflection, will not be progressed to the next stage.

Recruitment process

Applications will be reviewed as they are received. Shortlisting may commence prior to any closing date. SRC reserves the right to close this advertisement early if a suitable candidate pool has been identified or a high volume of applications is received.

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to attend a group-based assessment session held in our Melbourne CBD office, where you will have the opportunity to learn more about the role and demonstrate your capabilities.

Use of technology in recruitment: Our recruitment process is human-led at every stage. We may use AI-based tools to support our review, but all decisions are made by our hiring team.

Accessibility and adjustments

If you require an adjustment to participate in the recruitment process, or are unable to apply via the online portal or provide a written cover letter, please contact [email protected] using the subject line: Graduate Researchers x4 enquiry via EthicalJobs. We will work with you to provide a reasonable adjustment or alternative application method.

Recruitment agencies

The Social Research Centre does not accept unsolicited resumes or candidate referrals from recruitment agencies for this role. Any resumes submitted without prior written agreement will not be considered and no fees will be payable.

The Social Research Centre values diversity and believes that an inclusive and fair work environment has a positive impact on the wellbeing of employees, job satisfaction and productivity. We encourage people of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander heritage, people with diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds, sexual orientation, gender identity; and people with disability to apply.