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Political Research Analyst Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Fox News Media is seeking a Political Information Specialist to join its news research department ... Research, verify, analyze, and synthesize complex information from a wide range of sources to ...

Senior Research Analyst

Raleigh, NC

$112K - $113K/yr

Keep abreast of market, economic and political developments likely to impact client priorities ... Advanced-level research and analytical skills. Good interpersonal skills, comfortable dealing with ...

Senior Research Analyst

Raleigh, NC

$112K - $113K/yr

Keep abreast of market, economic and political developments likely to impact client priorities ... Advanced-level research and analytical skills. Good interpersonal skills, comfortable dealing with ...

Operations Research Analyst

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

... analysis experience. * Bachelor's degree in operations research or related field with at least 24 ... in political science, intelligence, foreign or international relations, or national security ...

Operations Research Analyst

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

... analysis experience. * Bachelor's degree in operations research or related field with at least 24 ... in political science, intelligence, foreign or international relations, or national security ...

Showing results 41-60

Political Research Analyst information

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$38.5K

$74K

$99.5K

How much do political research analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for political research analyst in the United States is $73,965.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,000.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a political research analyst do?

A political research analyst studies data related to politics and government. Your duties in this position involve analyzing information to make projections, identify trends, and support theories and political strategies. As a research analyst, your responsibilities include defining the scope and goal of each research project and finding and organizing relevant data. Some researchers perform statistical analysis to find and identify trends and study voting patterns and polling results. You compile the results of your research and create reports on your findings. Political research analysts can work for think tanks, consulting firms, organizations, or political campaigns.

What does a political research analyst do?

A Political Research Analyst studies political systems, trends, policies, and public issues to provide insights that inform decision-making for governments, organizations, or campaigns. They collect and analyze data from various sources, such as election results, public opinion polls, and legislative records. Their work often involves preparing reports, forecasting political trends, and advising on policy development. Political Research Analysts play a key role in helping stakeholders understand the implications of political events and strategies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a political research analyst, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Political Research Analyst, you need strong analytical skills, a background in political science or related fields, and proficiency in data interpretation. Familiarity with statistical analysis software, data visualization tools, and databases is typically required, along with experience in research methodologies. Outstanding written and verbal communication, critical thinking, and attention to detail set top candidates apart. These skills enable analysts to produce accurate, insightful reports that inform strategic decisions and policy recommendations.

How do political research analysts typically collaborate with different departments or stakeholders within an organization?

Political Research Analysts often work closely with policy teams, communications departments, and senior leadership to provide timely and accurate analysis of political trends and legislative developments. They may also collaborate with external partners, such as advocacy groups or consultants, to gather diverse perspectives and ensure comprehensive research. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as analysts must present complex findings in accessible formats and adapt their insights to the needs of various audiences within the organization.

What is the difference between Political Research Analyst vs Policy Analyst?

AspectPolitical Research AnalystPolicy Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in political science, public policy, or related field; research skillsBachelor's or master's in public policy, political science, or related; analytical skills
Work EnvironmentResearch firms, government agencies, think tanksGovernment agencies, advocacy groups, think tanks
Employer & Industry UsageFocuses on political trends, public opinion, electoral analysisFocuses on policy development, analysis, and recommendations

Both roles involve research and analysis, often requiring similar educational backgrounds. However, Political Research Analysts primarily focus on political trends and public opinion, while Policy Analysts concentrate on developing and evaluating policies. The roles often overlap but serve different end goals within the political and policy landscape.

Are political research analyst jobs in demand?

Political research analyst jobs are in demand due to ongoing political campaigns, policy analysis needs, and the increasing use of data-driven decision making. These roles often require strong analytical skills, familiarity with research tools, and knowledge of political processes, with employment opportunities available in government agencies, think tanks, and consulting firms.

Do political research analysts make good money?

Political research analysts typically earn a median annual salary that varies by experience, education, and location, with entry-level positions starting around $40,000 and experienced analysts earning over $80,000. The role often requires strong analytical skills, proficiency with data analysis tools, and a background in political science or related fields. Salaries can increase with specialization, advanced degrees, and working for government agencies, think tanks, or consulting firms.

What cities are hiring for Political Research Analyst jobs?

Cities with the most Political Research Analyst job openings:

What states have the most Political Research Analyst jobs?

States with the most job openings for Political Research Analyst jobs include:

Infographic showing various Political Research Analyst job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,965 per year, or $35.6 per hour.

Research Analyst - Emerging Threats

Systems Planning and Analysis

Arlington, VA โ€ข On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Overview
Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) delivers high-impact, technical solutions to complex national security issues. With over 50 years of business expertise and consistent growth, we are known for continuous innovation for our government customers, in both the US and abroad. Our exceptionally talented team is highly collaborative in spirit and practice, producing Results that Matter. Come work with the best! We offer opportunity, unique challenges, and clear-sighted commitment to the mission. SPA: Objective. Responsive. Trusted.
The Sea, Land, Air Analysis Group's mission is to deliver objective analyses, plans and strategies to US Navy, US Marine Corps, USAF, other DoD, and Australian Defence Force clients to support technology development, acquisition, delivery and sustainment decisions. The group provides the core of SPA thought leadership on Undersea Strategy, Software Development and Cost Estimating, with additional benchmark capabilities in AI/ML & Decision Analytics, Modeling and Simulation, and Future Force Assessments.
SPA has a need for a Research Analyst to conduct research and analysis on emerging deterrence challenges and strategic threat trends. This role supports AF/A10's work on new technologies, adversary behaviors, and evolving strategic environments.
Responsibilities
The Research Analyst - Emerging Threats conducts structured research on topics such as emerging nuclear and non-nuclear capabilities, novel delivery systems, strategic competition trends, and cross-domain escalation risks. They review open-source and classified reporting, think-tank and academic work, and internal studies to build well-sourced analytic products. They develop research papers, briefings, and decision-support materials that inform AF/A10's emerging issues, deterrence concepts, and wargaming or study efforts. They also help support forums, workshops, and seminars on emerging deterrence issues by preparing background materials, notes, and post-event summaries.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in international relations, security studies, political science, or a related field
  • 4+ years of experience in research and analysis on strategic, defense, or national security topics
  • Strong analytic writing skills and experience producing structured reports and briefings
  • Active TS/SCI clearance and the ability to maintain it throughout employment

Desired Qualifications:
  • Experience supporting deterrence, arms control, or strategic competition research projects or wargames
  • Familiarity with one or more relevant technical or regional areas (e.g., nuclear modernization, hypersonics, space/cyber threats, PRC/Russia deterrence issues)

Pay Range Information
At SPA, we strive to deliver a robust total compensation package that will attract and retain top talent. Elements of the compensation package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities. SPA provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work. The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, etc. Please note that the salary information shown below is a general guideline only. Salaries are commensurate with experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations. Virginia, Pay Transparency Salary range: USD $120,000.00/Yr. - USD $150,000.00/Yr.