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Assistant Political Science Jobs in Portland, ME

Assistant Political Science information

See Portland, ME salary details

$9

$21

$46

How much do assistant political science jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant political science in Portland, ME is $21.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.28 and $21.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an assistant political science?

Assistant Political Science positions typically refer to academic roles, such as Assistant Professors or Research Assistants, in the field of political science. Individuals in these roles often teach undergraduate or graduate courses, conduct research, and participate in scholarly activities. The position may also involve assisting senior faculty members with administrative tasks, grading, and curriculum development. Assistant Political Science positions are usually entry-level roles in academia and can be a stepping stone to higher academic ranks or research careers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant political science professor?

To thrive as an Assistant Political Science Professor, a strong academic background in political science (usually a Ph.D.) and experience in teaching and research are essential. Familiarity with academic databases, data analysis software (such as SPSS or Stata), and learning management systems is typically required. Excellent communication, critical thinking, and mentoring abilities help foster student engagement and scholarly collaboration. These skills are crucial for delivering high-quality education, advancing research, and contributing to the academic community.

What are some common challenges faced by assistant political science professors in their first few years, and how can they overcome them?

New Assistant Political Science professors often face challenges such as balancing teaching responsibilities with research demands, adapting to institutional expectations, and building a professional network. Navigating the tenure-track process can be stressful, especially when trying to publish research while maintaining high-quality instruction and contributing to departmental service. To overcome these challenges, new faculty should seek mentorship from senior colleagues, prioritize time management, and actively participate in academic conferences and departmental meetings to foster collaboration and professional growth.

What is the difference between Assistant Political Science vs Research Assistant?

AspectAssistant Political ScienceResearch Assistant
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Political Science or related field; some roles may prefer a master'sBachelor's degree in a relevant field; often a prerequisite for research projects
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, political organizations, academic institutionsUniversities, research institutes, think tanks
Employer & Industry UsagePolitical offices, NGOs, policy organizationsAcademic research projects, scientific studies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in political science and related fieldsComparing research support roles in academia and research settings

The main difference is that an Assistant Political Science typically supports political projects, policy analysis, or government work, while a Research Assistant focuses on conducting research, data collection, and analysis in academic or scientific settings. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ in their work environment and specific responsibilities.

How to be a political assistant?

To become a political assistant, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in political science, public administration, or related fields. Gaining experience through internships, developing strong communication and organizational skills, and understanding government processes are essential. Familiarity with office software and political issues also enhances job prospects.

What can I do with an associate degree in political science?

An assistant political science role typically involves supporting research, policy analysis, or administrative tasks in government agencies, nonprofits, or political organizations. With an associate degree, you can work as a legislative aide, research assistant, or in community outreach, often requiring strong communication and organizational skills. Further education or certifications can enhance career advancement opportunities.

What do assistant political science research assistants do?

Assistant political science research assistants support faculty or research teams by collecting and analyzing data, reviewing literature, and preparing reports or presentations. They often use tools like statistical software and may assist with survey design or fieldwork, typically working under supervision in academic or research settings.

What kind of job can I get with assistant political science?

An assistant in political science can work in research, policy analysis, government agencies, or non-profit organizations. These roles often require strong analytical skills, familiarity with data analysis tools, and knowledge of political systems and theories.

What are the most commonly searched types of Political Science jobs in Portland, ME?

The most popular types of Political Science jobs in Portland, ME are:

Assistant Professor of Government and Legal Studies

Bowdoin College

Brunswick, ME โ€ข On-site

$92K - $98K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Posting Details
Posting Details
Title
Assistant Professor of Government and Legal Studies
Posting Number
F00299JP
Department
Government
Position Summary
Bowdoin College's Department of Government and Legal Studies invites applications for a full-time tenure-track faculty appointment at the Assistant Professor level in the comparative politics of Africa. The position will begin July 1, 2027. The successful candidate will teach two courses per semester across a range of offerings, including the department's introductory course in comparative politics, taught in rotation. Bowdoin is particularly interested in candidates dedicated to undergraduate teaching and with a promise of long-term successful research. A Ph.D. in political science is expected by the date of the appointment.
Bowdoin College offers opportunities for professional development, a fully-funded, year-long pre-tenure sabbatical leave (after three years of teaching and successful reappointment), and regular, generously funded, post-tenure sabbaticals. Support for teaching, grant submission, artificial intelligence initiatives, computing software, and community partnerships in courses is available. The College also offers robust programming and resources for establishing and enhancing mentoring networks.
At Bowdoin, we are committed to inclusive excellence, an ongoing collective practice that honors our institutional commitment to provide an outstanding liberal arts education and serve the common good. The College is home to talented students, faculty and staff and we encourage applications from candidates committed to the inclusive instruction and support of a diverse student population, and those who will enrich and contribute to the College's multifaceted diversity.
Accessibility during the application and interview stages, as well as once employed, is a priority of the College: https://www.bowdoin.edu/accessibility/index.html. In addition, visa sponsorships for faculty hires are available.
Bowdoin College accepts only electronic submissions. Please submit: 1) a cover letter that includes a description of your research; 2) a curriculum vitae; 3) a statement that describes your teaching philosophy and practice, including how you create inclusive learning environments that prepare students to interact constructively with a diversity of people, spaces, situations, and ideas; 4) a writing sample; and 5) the names and contact information for three references who have agreed to provide letters of recommendation. Letter writers will be automatically contacted upon submission of your application.
Review of applications will begin September 21 and continue until the position is filled. The anticipated hiring range for this appointment at the assistant professor rank without prior tenure-track experience is $92,000 - $98,000 annually; the salary offered will be commensurate with the successful candidate's experience and with internal peer equity. All offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of a satisfactory background check.
Founded in 1794, Bowdoin has maintained its commitment to the liberal arts for well over 200 years. Bowdoin's reputation as a preeminent liberal arts college rests on the excellence of its faculty, students, and staff; intimate size; strong sense of community; and connections to the people, history, and natural beauty of Maine. Bowdoin's campus is situated in a beautiful natural setting. Located in Brunswick, Maine, a town of approximately 20,000, the College is a short drive from the Maine coast, twenty-five miles from Portland and 120 miles from Boston. Bowdoin College complies with applicable provisions of federal and state laws that prohibit unlawful discrimination in employment, admission, or access to its educational or extracurricular programs, activities, or facilities based on race, color, ethnicity, ancestry and national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, age, marital status, place of birth, genetic predisposition, veteran status, or against qualified individuals with physical or mental disabilities on the basis of disability, or any other legally protected statuses. For further information about the College and our department, please visit our website: http://www.bowdoin.edu.
Posting Date
07/07/2026
Applications Accepted Until
Open Until Filled
Yes
Special Instructions to Applicants
Employment Category
Full Time Year Round
Job Start Date
07/01/2027
Job End Date
Job Type
Faculty
Background Check Package Requirements
Faculty/Administrative