ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Assistant Professor Political Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsProfessor Political Science JobsAssistant Professor Political Science Jobs

Assistant Professor Political Science information

See salary details

$42.5K

$80.1K

$135K

How much do assistant professor political science jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant professor political science in the United States is $80,057.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,000.00 and $91,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Assistant Professor of Political Science, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Professor of Political Science, you generally need a Ph.D. in political science or a closely related field, along with a strong record of research and teaching. Familiarity with academic research databases, statistical analysis software such as SPSS or Stata, and learning management systems like Canvas or Blackboard is typically required. Excellent communication, mentorship, and organizational skills help foster student engagement and contribute to a collegial academic environment. These competencies are essential for effective teaching, advancing research, and building a positive reputation within the academic community.

What are some typical challenges Assistant Professors in Political Science face during the tenure-track period?

Assistant Professors in Political Science often balance teaching, research, and service commitments, which can be demanding, especially during the tenure-track years. Managing a heavy teaching load while producing high-quality, publishable research is a common challenge. Additionally, building a professional network, securing research funding, and actively participating in departmental service or committees are essential for career advancement. Developing a clear research agenda and seeking mentorship from senior faculty can help navigate these challenges and set a strong foundation for tenure review.

What does an Assistant Professor of Political Science do?

An Assistant Professor of Political Science teaches undergraduate and sometimes graduate courses in political science, conducts research in their area of expertise, and publishes scholarly work. They also advise students, participate in departmental and university service, and may apply for research grants. This position is typically an entry-level, tenure-track faculty role at a college or university.

What is the difference between Assistant Professor Political Science vs Lecturer Political Science?

AspectAssistant Professor Political ScienceLecturer Political Science
Required CredentialsDoctorate in Political Science or related fieldMaster's degree often sufficient; PhD preferred
Work EnvironmentAcademic institutions, research, teachingPrimarily teaching-focused, often contract-based
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, colleges, research institutionsUniversities, colleges, community colleges
Common Search & ComparisonYesNo

The main difference between an Assistant Professor Political Science and a Lecturer Political Science lies in their credentials, job responsibilities, and employment status. Assistant Professors typically hold a PhD, engage in research alongside teaching, and have a tenure-track position. Lecturers usually focus primarily on teaching, often with a master's degree, and may work on contract or part-time. Both roles are common in academic settings, but Assistant Professors are more involved in research and long-term academic career development.

More about Assistant Professor Political Science jobs
What cities are hiring for Assistant Professor Political Science jobs? Cities with the most Assistant Professor Political Science job openings:
What states have the most Assistant Professor Political Science jobs? States with the most job openings for Assistant Professor Political Science jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Assistant Professor Political Science jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Assistant Professor Political Science jobs are:
Assistant Professor Political Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Professor Political Science job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 65% Full Time, and 35% Part Time. Highlights an 82% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,057 per year, or $38.5 per hour.

Political Science and Criminal Justice: Visiting Assistant Professor in American Politics

Universities of Wisconsin

Eau Claire, WI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Current Employees: If you are currently employed at any of the Universities of Wisconsin, log in to Workday to apply through the internal application process.
Position Title:
Political Science and Criminal Justice: Visiting Assistant Professor in American Politics
Job Category:
Academic Staff
Employment Type:
Terminal (Fixed Term)
Job Profile:
Lecturer
Job Duties:
POSITION: A full-time, instructional academic staff position is available in the Department of Political Science & Criminal Justice with an emphasis in American Politics for the 2026-2027 academic year beginning August 17, 2026. The official title is Lecturer with a working title of Visiting Assistant Professor. This is a one-year appointment with salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.
QUALIFICATIONS: A master's degree is required from a regionally accredited institution in political science. The following will be considered assets: evidence of successful teaching at the collegiate level; demonstrated commitment to support and enhance the diversity and cultural and global awareness of students, faculty, and staff.
DUTIES: Teach courses in American Politics. Preference will be given to candidates qualified to teach introduction to US politics, Wisconsin state & local government, and Survey of the US Constitution.
THE UNIT: The Department of Political Science and Criminal Justice consists of 13 full-time faculty in the fields of political science and criminal justice. With approximately 400 majors and 150 minors, the department is one of the largest in the College of Arts and Sciences. Our award-winning program faculty work collaboratively with students on research, oversee Service-learning and internship projects, lead international and domestic immersion experiences, and have opportunities to teach abroad.
UNIVERSITY and EAU CLAIRE COMMUNITY: UW-Eau Claire, an institution of approximately 9,000 students and 1,100 faculty and staff, is consistently recognized as a top comprehensive university in the Midwest and is widely known as a leader in faculty-undergraduate research and study abroad. We strive for excellence in liberal education and select graduate and professional programs through commitment to teaching and learning and dedication to our core values of diversity, sustainability, leadership, and innovation. To learn more about UWEC, visit https://www.uwec.edu/human-resources/employment-opportunities/.
The City of Eau Claire, situated at the confluence of the Chippewa and Eau Claire rivers, is at the center of a metropolitan area of approximately 100,000 people located 90 miles east of Minneapolis/St. Paul. The area features beautiful parks and trails, strong public schools, a vibrant arts scene and local food culture, and abundant recreational opportunities.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE: Applications are submitted electronically. Please follow instructions found on the following Web site: https://wisconsin.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/UW_Comprehensives (Job ID #10010978). Please be sure you have included the following in PDF format:
  • Letter of application
  • Curriculum vita
  • Unofficial graduate school transcript
  • Statement of teaching philosophy
  • Names and contact information for three references.

Please direct requests for additional information to:
Geoff Peterson, Chair of the Department of Political Science & Criminal Justice, petersgd@uwec.edu
To ensure consideration, completed applications must be received by June 1, 2026. However, screening may continue until position is filled.
Key Job Responsibilities:
  • Serves as an initial point of contact for students as it relates to specific course or series content and expectations
  • Develops instructional design and curriculum relevant to a course of instruction
  • Facilitates classroom, online and/or laboratory instruction for one or more courses, including assessment of student performance

Department:
Compensation:
Required Qualifications:
Preferred Qualifications:
Education:
How to Apply:
Contact Information:
Special Notes:
INSTITUTIONAL OVERVIEW
UW-Eau Claire, an institution of approximately 9,000 students and 1,200 faculty and staff, is consistently recognized as a top comprehensive university in the Midwest and is widely known as a leader in faculty-undergraduate research and study abroad. We strive for excellence in liberal education and select graduate and professional programs through commitment to teaching and learning and dedication to our core values of diversity, sustainability, leadership, and innovation. To learn more about UWEC, visit https://www.uwec.edu/human-resources/employment-opportunities/ .
The City of Eau Claire, situated at the confluence of the Chippewa and Eau Claire rivers, is at the center of a metropolitan area of approximately 100,000 people located 90 miles east of Minneapolis/St. Paul. The area features beautiful parks and trails, strong public schools, a vibrant arts scene and local food culture, and abundant recreational opportunities.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
The university reserves the right to contact additional references with notice given to the candidates at an appropriate time in the process. Employment will require a background check. Employment will also require you and your references to answer questions regarding past conduct related to sexual violence and sexual harassment.
The Universities of Wisconsin will not reveal the identities of applicants who request confidentiality in writing, except that the identity of the successful candidate will be released. See Wis. Stat. §. 19.36(7).
The UW-Eau Claire Police Department is dedicated to maintaining a safe and secure environment for learning and working. Although crime at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire is limited, the University Police want students, faculty and staff to be aware of crime on campus and the area surrounding the campus. The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act is a federal law that requires colleges and universities to disclose annual information about campus crime. Visit Campus Security and Fire Report. Also visit our Campus Security Authority(CSA) policy.
UW is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other bases protected by applicable federal or State law and UW System policies. We are committed to building a workforce that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills, and encourage all qualified individuals to apply.

Apply