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Freelance Political Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$83 - $138/hr

We are seeking an experienced freelance researcher with advanced skills in data science, research ... political candidates, organizational climate surveys, and more. Survey analysis is our most ...

... by freelance SMEs/writers; including evaluating for overall quality, spelling, grammar, clarity ... We work on a large number of disciplines, ranging from psychology to political science to criminal ...

Academic or professional background in international relations, political science, criminology, communication, or related fields * Experience in one or more domains: Counterterrorism, Hate Speech ...

Academic or professional background in international relations, political science, criminology, communication, or related fields * Experience in one or more domains: Counterterrorism, Hate Speech ...

New York Reporting Fellow

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$54K - $73K/yr

... political science, history, Jewish studies or a related field. * Up to two years of journalism experience, including internships, freelance work or entry-level newsroom roles. * Strong reporting ...

New York Reporting Fellow

Manhattan, NY

$54K - $73K/yr

... political science, history, Jewish studies or a related field. * Up to two years of journalism experience, including internships, freelance work or entry-level newsroom roles. * Strong reporting ...

Director, Communications

Washington, DC · On-site

$81K - $102K/yr

Directly supervises communications staff and indirectly supervises additional staff, freelancers ... Political Science, Public Policy, Government, Journalism, or a related field preferred. * Minimum ...

Director, Communications

Washington, DC · On-site

$81K - $102K/yr

Directly supervises communications staff and indirectly supervises additional staff, freelancers ... Political Science, Public Policy, Government, Journalism, or a related field preferred. * Minimum ...

Assistant Editor

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

... freelance editors, and designers * Enforce production schedules, regularly update project ... Bachelor's degree in political science, journalism, English, or a related field * At least two ...

Assistant Editor

New York, NY · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

... freelance editors, and designers * Enforce production schedules, regularly update project ... Bachelor's degree in political science, journalism, English, or a related field * At least two ...

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Freelance Political Science information

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$47

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How much do freelance political science jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance political science in the United States is $47.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $61.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance political science professional?

A freelance political science professional is an independent expert who offers services related to political analysis, research, writing, consulting, or teaching on a contract or project basis. Unlike traditional roles in academia or government, freelancers work with multiple clients such as think tanks, media outlets, NGOs, or educational institutions. Their work may include policy analysis, report writing, creating educational content, or advising on political matters. Freelance professionals have flexibility in choosing projects and clients, and their income depends on the volume and nature of the work they secure.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance political science professional?

To thrive as a freelance political science consultant, you need a solid academic background in political science, strong analytical abilities, and expertise in research methodologies. Proficiency with data analysis tools, academic databases, and presentation software is typically required, while advanced degrees or certifications can enhance credibility. Excellent written and verbal communication, networking, and self-motivation are standout soft skills for building client relationships and managing independent projects. These skills ensure the ability to deliver insightful analysis, maintain professional credibility, and succeed in a competitive, project-based environment.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance political science professionals, and how can they be addressed?

Freelance political science professionals often encounter challenges such as inconsistent workflow, securing new clients, and staying current on policy trends. Building a strong professional network and maintaining an updated portfolio can help attract regular clients. Additionally, keeping abreast of global political developments and utilizing online research tools are essential for delivering accurate, timely analysis. Joining professional associations and online communities can also provide support and lead to new opportunities.

What is the difference between Freelance Political Science vs Political Analyst?

AspectFreelance Political SciencePolitical Analyst
CredentialsDegree in Political Science or related fieldDegree in Political Science, Public Policy, or related field; often requires experience
Work EnvironmentRemote, project-based, self-employedTypically employed by think tanks, government agencies, or media outlets
Employer & IndustryClients across various sectors, including NGOs, media, consultingGovernment, media, research organizations
Search & Comparison IntentFreelance Political Science vs Political Analyst

Freelance Political Science involves independent consulting, research, and writing for diverse clients, offering flexibility. Political Analysts usually work within organizations analyzing policies and providing insights. Both roles require a background in political science, but freelance work emphasizes self-employment, while political analysts are typically employed by organizations.

More about Freelance Political Science jobs

What cities are hiring for Freelance Political Science jobs?

Cities with the most Freelance Political Science job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Political Science jobs?

The most popular types of Political Science jobs are:

What states have the most Freelance Political Science jobs?

States with the most job openings for Freelance Political Science jobs include:

Infographic showing various Freelance Political Science job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,230 per year, or $47.7 per hour.

Data Scientist/Social Science Researcher

ISHE

On-site

$83 - $138/hr

Other

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

We are seeking an experienced freelance researcher with advanced skills in data science, research design, and translational research. Reporting to and partnering directly with firm leadership, you will work across a varied portfolio—advocacy research, messaging polls for political candidates, organizational climate surveys, and more. Survey analysis is our most frequent type of project.

The ideal candidate brings a flexible mind and the ability to carry data-centric projects from research design and data cleaning through analysis and final deliverables. You will use your whole brain, learn new skills, teach your collaborators, and directly shape strategic decisions made by our corporate, political, and nonprofit clients.

We anticipate a workload of approximately 30–60 hours per month, varying with the project cycle. We would ideally fill this position with one person working across a wide range of projects, but we are also building a roster of partners for project-based work. Applicants with limited availability are welcome alongside those seeking more regular, intensive engagement.

Key Responsibilities
  • Draft public opinion surveys, using social scientific best practices, that answer clients’ key strategic questions.
  • Clean and process survey data efficiently, including the development of survey weights.
  • Produce survey deliverables: topline results, strategy-focused memos, and presentations with clear, data visualizations.
  • Design and execute research projects using internal client data.
  • Communicate complex quantitative results to audiences with varying levels of statistical fluency.
  • Advanced degree (PhD preferred) in a quantitative social science field, or equivalent experience
  • Demonstrated ability to design and conduct quantitative research projects efficiently
  • Knowledge of best practices and scientific principles of polling and public opinion research
  • High proficiency in R and/or STATA, our primary analysis tools
  • Experience with survey platforms such as Qualtrics or SurveyMonkey
  • Knowledge of and experience applying data visualization best practices
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office and presentation software
  • Excellent writing, communication, and critical thinking skills
  • Ability to balance priorities within and across projects, learn new skills, and adapt to new clients
  • High responsiveness and self-directed autonomy in a remote work environment
  • Understanding of and experience with equity-driven research and analysis

Commitment to working with people of diverse backgrounds and perspectives

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