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Political Fellow Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Postdoctoral Fellow

Chapel Hill, NC

$41.70K - $56.60K/yr

... Fellow Vacancy ID PDS004670 Full-time/Part-time Full-Time Temporary Hours per week 40 FTE 1 Work ... The PPE Program is committed to integrating abstract work in philosophy, political science, and ...

Postdoctoral Fellow

Chapel Hill, NC

$41.70K - $56.60K/yr

... Fellow Vacancy ID PDS004670 Full-time/Part-time Full-Time Temporary Hours per week 40 FTE 1 Work ... The PPE Program is committed to integrating abstract work in philosophy, political science, and ...

Postdoctoral Fellow

Chapel Hill, NC

$41.70K - $56.60K/yr

... Fellow Vacancy ID PDS004670 Full-time/Part-time Full-Time Temporary Hours per week 40 FTE 1 Work ... The PPE Program is committed to integrating abstract work in philosophy, political science, and ...

Postdoctoral Fellow

Chapel Hill, NC · On-site

$41.70K - $56.60K/yr

... Fellow Vacancy ID PDS004670 Full-time/Part-time Full-Time Temporary Hours per week 40 FTE 1 Work ... The PPE Program is committed to integrating abstract work in philosophy, political science, and ...

Policy Fellow

Atlanta, GA · Hybrid

$47.10K - $63.90K/yr

... political participation seek to ensure the fundamental and basic human rights of all people to ... The Fellow is a term-limited two-year fellowship position for an experienced attorney. The fellow ...

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Showing results 1-20

Political Fellow information

See salary details

$25K

$59K

$83.5K

How much do political fellow jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for political fellow in the United States is $59,022.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,000.00 and $66,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Political Fellow, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Political Fellow, you need a solid understanding of political science, public policy, and current affairs, often supported by a relevant degree or prior policy experience. Familiarity with data analysis tools, legislative tracking software, and research databases is typically required. Strong written and verbal communication, analytical thinking, and networking abilities are crucial soft skills for this role. These qualities enable Political Fellows to effectively support policy initiatives, contribute to research, and build relationships with stakeholders.

What are some common challenges Political Fellows face when transitioning from academic studies to hands-on policy work?

Political Fellows often experience a shift from theoretical learning to the fast-paced, practical demands of policy and advocacy work. Adapting to tight deadlines, managing multiple projects, and navigating the complexities of stakeholder engagement can be challenging. Fellows typically work closely with seasoned professionals, which provides valuable mentorship but also requires strong communication and collaboration skills. Embracing feedback and remaining flexible are key to thriving in this dynamic environment.

What are Political Fellows?

Political Fellows are individuals who participate in fellowship programs designed to provide hands-on experience in politics, policy, or government. These fellowships often involve working closely with elected officials, political organizations, or advocacy groups, and may include responsibilities like policy research, event planning, communications, and constituent outreach. Political Fellows typically gain valuable insights into the political process, expand their professional networks, and develop skills relevant to public service or political careers. Programs may vary in length, focus, and eligibility requirements, but they generally aim to prepare participants for future leadership roles in the political sphere.

What is the difference between Political Fellow vs Policy Analyst?

AspectPolitical FellowPolicy Analyst
Required CredentialsTypically a bachelor's degree, often in political science, public policy, or related fieldsUsually a bachelor's or master's degree in public policy, political science, or economics
Work EnvironmentInternship or temporary position within government, nonprofit, or political organizationsResearch-focused role in think tanks, government agencies, or consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by political campaigns, government offices, and advocacy groupsCommon in policy research organizations, government departments, and consulting firms

While both roles involve engagement with public policy and politics, a Political Fellow typically participates in internships or temporary programs to gain experience, whereas a Policy Analyst conducts research and analysis to inform policy decisions. The roles often overlap in skills and industry usage, but differ mainly in scope and career stage.

More about Political Fellow jobs
Infographic showing various Political Fellow job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $59,022 per year, or $28.4 per hour.

John DiStaso Political Fellowship

Hearst Newspapers

Manchester, NH

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

John DiStaso Political Fellowship

The John DiStaso Political Fellowship is a one-semester paid position at Hearst ABC affiliate WMUR-TV in Manchester, NH.  Our Fellow will work closely with members of our political team on several projects including daily political coverage, our 2022 and 2024 election-related coverage, and our weekly political show, "CloseUP".  The Fellowship will be awarded to a motivated junior or senior in college who is interested in pursuing a career in political journalism.

More about John DiStaso

John DiStaso was the most experienced political journalist in New Hampshire. He was often referred to as the "dean" of New Hampshire's political press corps. John died from complications of pancreatic cancer on April 21, 2022, at the age of 68.  Throughout his career, DiStaso interviewed four sitting presidents and countless presidential candidates while covering 11 New Hampshire primaries. John spent much of his career working for New Hampshire's largest newspaper, "The Union Leader".  He spent the last seven years of his career working for WMUR, where he wrote daily for WMUR.com regularly breaking stories.  He also often appeared on WMUR-TV to provide analysis for political stories.

The opportunity

In this political fellowship, you'll play a meaningful role on the experienced political team of WMUR. You'll follow in John's footsteps working on daily political coverage. You'll learn from John's enduring legacy, as well as the experienced political team at WMUR to gain the knowledge and experience to launch a successful career in political journalism.

How to qualify

  • Working toward a bachelor's degree in Political Science, Journalism, Communications or a related degree
  • Experience in journalism through internships or college media
  • Goal to work in the field of journalism
  • Excellent writing and research skills
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Deadline driven
  • Willingness to work various shifts including nights, weekends and holidays
  • You also need to have a strong academic record, and two recommendations from faculty or internship supervisors

How to apply

Please apply on our career site. Include the following documentation in your application:

  • Include the following documentation in your application:
    • A letter expressing interest in the fellowship and promoting your candidacy
    • A summary of your commitment to journalism (one page, single-spaced)
    • A current resume citing work experience and accomplishments
    • A complete academic transcript through your completed semester
    • Two academic or professional recommendations
    • Finalists will be interviewed by phone and either in-person or via video conference

Application deadlines

For the fall fellowship, applications are due by June 15th. For the spring fellowship, applications are due by September 15th. Decisions regarding fall selection will be made in July and decisions regarding spring selection will be made in October.

Hearst Television (HTV) owns and/or operates 35 television and two radio stations serving 27 media markets across 39 states reaching over 22 million U.S. television households. HTV is recognized as one of the industry's premier broadcasting companies and has been honored with numerous awards for distinguished journalism, industry innovation, and community service.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. we do not discriminate in hiring on the basis of sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, creed, national, origin, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.