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Entry Level Political Science Research Assistant Jobs

Research Assistant

Detroit, MI · On-site

$19 - $26.25/hr

Research Assistant Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Research Assistant at its ... Bachelor's Degree in any area of social science research (including political science, anthropology ...

Position Information Position Title Assistant Professor of Political Science Job Summary The ... Demonstrated potential for scholarly research and publication Physical Demands FLSA Exempt Status ...

$2.7K/wk

Position Information Recruitment/Posting Title Lecturers, Political Science Department Political ... Recently, Rutgers-Camden earned Carnegie classification as an R2 research university due to a high ...

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Entry Level Political Science Research Assistant information

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$11

$19

$30

How much do entry level political science research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level political science research assistant in the United States is $19.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level political science research assistant do?

An entry level political science research assistant supports senior researchers or professors by gathering and analyzing data, conducting literature reviews, and helping to prepare reports or presentations. Their duties often include searching for relevant academic articles, summarizing findings, managing databases, and sometimes assisting with surveys or interviews. This role is a great opportunity to gain hands-on experience in political science research and develop valuable skills in analysis, writing, and project management.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Political Science Research Assistant, you need a solid understanding of political science concepts, strong research and analytical skills, and typically a bachelor’s degree in political science or a related field. Familiarity with data analysis tools like SPSS, Stata, or Excel, as well as academic databases such as JSTOR, is often required. Attention to detail, strong written and verbal communication, and the ability to work collaboratively are standout soft skills for this role. These competencies are essential for producing accurate research, supporting senior researchers, and contributing effectively to the success of research projects.

What types of projects and tasks can I expect to work on as an Entry Level Political Science Research Assistant?

As an Entry Level Political Science Research Assistant, you can expect to support senior researchers and faculty with a variety of tasks, including gathering and analyzing data, conducting literature reviews, preparing summaries of academic articles, and assisting in the preparation of reports and presentations. Your daily responsibilities may also include managing databases, fact-checking information, and coordinating with other team members to ensure deadlines are met. This role offers valuable exposure to the research process and provides opportunities to learn about different methodologies and topical areas within political science, setting a strong foundation for future career advancement.
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Political Science Research Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Political Science Research Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Political Science Research Assistant job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,474 per year, or $19.9 per hour.

$21.36 - $24.04/hr

Part-time

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Summary
The Federal Judicial Center (Center) is the federal courts' agency for research and continuing education. Congress established the Center in 1967 as a separate organization within the federal judicial system at the request of the Judicial Conference of the United States. A nine-member board, chaired by the Chief Justice of the United States, determines its basic policies.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
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The Research Division undertakes empirical research related to the operation of the federal courts, often at the request of the Judicial Conference of the United States and its committees, specific courts, or other groups in the federal court system.
The primary duties and responsibilities of the graduate student research assistant are to provide support to Research Division project teams in the design and conduct of social science research aimed at discovering innovative or improved approaches to the judicial administration in federal appellate, district, and bankruptcy courts. Specific duties and responsibilities, generally exercised under the guidance of a Research Associate or Senior Research Associate, may include support with:
  • Conducting literature reviews;
  • Organizing, coding, and analyzing data;
  • Creating and documenting datasets;
  • Creating tables and graphs to present research findings;
  • Developing research instruments such as interview protocols, questionnaires, and coding protocols;
  • Writing and administering online surveys; and
  • Writing reports of research findings.

The Federal Judicial Center offers a range of telework and flexible work schedule options based on the employee's position categorization. The Graduate Student Research Assistant position is a remote-eligible position and will not require relocation.
Requirements
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Conditions of employment
KEY REQUIREMENTS:
  • Selectee must be a United States Citizen, subject to the exceptions enumerated at https://www.uscourts.gov/careers/search-judiciary-jobs/citizenship-requirements-employment-judiciary.
  • Selectee must favorably complete a background investigation.
  • Relatives of Center staff members may not be employed at the Center in any capacity.
  • All requirements must be met for full consideration.

The Federal Judicial Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to achieving a professional and collegial workplace in which everyone is valued and treated fairly and respectfully.
Qualifications
  • Currently enrolled and seeking a graduate degree in a social or behavioral science discipline such as psychology, sociology, or political science at an accredited educational institution, on a full-time basis;
  • Experience working in a research environment either as a paid employee, intern, or volunteer, or as part of a graduate school program;
  • Knowledge of statistical programs such as SAS, SPSS, STATA, and R;
  • Knowledge of database management programs such as Excel, Access, or FileMaker;
  • Strong writing skills; and
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to work collaboratively.

Summer graduate student research assistants are asked to commit to at least eight weeks of employment for 30 to 39 hours per week.
Spring and fall semester graduate student research assistants are asked to commit to 12 to 15 hours per week.
Graduate student research assistants are limited to working a maximum of 39 hours per week.
Education
Currently enrolled and seeking a graduate degree in a social or behavioral science discipline such as psychology, sociology, or political science at an accredited educational institution, on a full-time basis.
Additional information
SALARY AND BENEFITS:
  • Graduate Students (first and second year): $21.36 per hour
  • Graduate Students (third year or completed degree): $24.04 per hour

This position is part time. Benefits are not applicable for this position.
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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
Help
This position is part time. Benefits are not applicable for this position.