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Political Research Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Inova

Research Assistant

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$21.49 - $35.03/hr

We are looking for dedicated Research Assistant in the Fairfax and Ashburn area to work in children ... or ethnic origin, political affiliation, pregnancy (including childbirth, pregnancy-related ...

Inova Primary Care

Research Assistant

Fairfax, VA

$19.75 - $27/hr

We are looking for dedicated Research Assistant in the Fairfax and Ashburn area to work in children ... or ethnic origin, political affiliation, pregnancy (including childbirth, pregnancy-related ...

Virginia Tech

Research Assistant

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

$17 - $23.25/hr

Research Assistant Apply now Back to search results Job no: 533999 Work type: Staff Senior ... political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise ...

Virginia Tech

Research Assistant

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

$17 - $23.25/hr

Research Assistant Apply now Back to search results Job no: 535375 Work type: Staff Senior ... political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise ...

Virginia Tech

Research Assistant

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

$18/hr

Research Assistant Apply now Back to search results Job no: 534078 Work type: Hourly Wage/Part-Time ... political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise ...

Hatalom

Research Assistant - MCU/CDET

Quantico, VA · On-site

$20.75 - $28.50/hr

Research Assistant Marine Corps University (MCU) / College of Distance Education and Training (CDET ... Political Science, or a related field. * One (1) to three (3) years of experience supporting ...

Hatalom

Research Assistant - MCU/CDET

Quantico, VA · On-site

$20.75 - $28.50/hr

Research Assistant Marine Corps University (MCU) / College of Distance Education and Training (CDET ... Political Science, or a related field. * One (1) to three (3) years of experience supporting ...

Hatalom

Research Assistant - MCU/CDET

Quantico, VA · On-site

$20.75 - $28.50/hr

Research Assistant Marine Corps University (MCU) / College of Distance Education and Training (CDET ... Political Science, or a related field. * One (1) to three (3) years of experience supporting ...

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All JobsPolitical Research JobsPolitical Research Assistant JobsPolitical Research Assistant Jobs in Virginia

Political Research Assistant information

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How much do political research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for political research assistant in Virginia is $21.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.03 and $24.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a political research assistant?

Political Research Assistants are professionals who support political scientists, lawmakers, advocacy organizations, or think tanks by gathering, analyzing, and interpreting political data and trends. Their work often involves conducting research on policies, legislation, election results, or public opinion. They may also help prepare reports, briefs, and presentations to inform decision-making. Strong analytical, writing, and organizational skills are essential for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a political research assistant?

To thrive as a Political Research Assistant, you need strong analytical skills, a background in political science or related fields, and proficiency in research and data interpretation. Familiarity with research databases, statistical software (such as SPSS or Stata), and online information-gathering tools is typically required. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective written and verbal communication are essential soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure accurate analysis, clear reporting, and the ability to support informed decision-making in political environments.

How does a political research assistant typically collaborate with other members of a campaign or policy team?

Political Research Assistants frequently work in close coordination with policy analysts, communications staff, and campaign strategists. They gather and synthesize information on policy issues, opposition research, and public sentiment, then share their findings to help shape messaging and strategic decisions. Regular team meetings and collaborative projects are common, requiring strong communication skills and adaptability. This role often serves as a bridge between data-driven insights and actionable strategies for the broader team.

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

AspectPolitical Research AssistantPolicy Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in political science, public policy, or related fieldBachelor's or master's degree in political science, public policy, or related field
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, research institutes, political campaignsGovernment agencies, think tanks, advocacy groups
Employer & Industry UsageUsed for supporting political campaigns, legislative researchUsed for analyzing policies, advising lawmakers
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for entry-level research roles in politicsCompared for policy development and analysis roles

The main difference is that Political Research Assistants focus on gathering and analyzing political data to support campaigns or legislative efforts, while Policy Analysts develop and evaluate policies to advise decision-makers. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and are found in government and research settings, but their core responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

Do political research assistants get paid a lot?

Political research assistants typically earn a moderate salary that varies based on experience, location, and employer. Entry-level positions may pay around $40,000 to $60,000 annually, with higher salaries for those with specialized skills or advanced education. Compensation can also include benefits such as health insurance and paid time off.

How much does a political research assistant get paid?

The average salary for a political research assistant ranges from $35,000 to $55,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with advanced skills or in larger organizations can earn higher wages. Some roles also offer benefits such as health insurance and paid time off.

What qualifications do I need to be a political research assistant?

A political research assistant typically needs a bachelor's degree in political science, public policy, or a related field. Strong research, analytical, and communication skills are essential, along with proficiency in data analysis tools and familiarity with political environments. Some positions may prefer experience with policy analysis or legislative processes.

What are the most commonly searched types of Political Research jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Political Research jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Political Research Assistant jobs in Virginia?

For Political Research Assistant jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Political Research Assistant jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Political Research Assistant jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Political Research Assistant jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Political Research Assistant job openings:

Political Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Political Research Assistant job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,639 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Senior Political Research Analyst

Stand Together

Arlington, VA • On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Americans for Prosperity (AFP) is the premier grassroots organization focused on advocating solutions to the country's greatest challenges. We recognize that tens of millions of Americans are frustrated with the extreme partisanship in government that keeps common-sense reforms from being passed, and instead seek to stand with policy leaders who are committed to finding a better way. 
 
Americans for Prosperity is part of the Stand Together philanthropic community. 

As a Senior Political Research Analyst, you will leverage your research experience to better inform our electoral strategies.
How You Will Contribute
  • Conduct policy and legislative research on political candidates and analyze research findings 
  • Work closely and communicate with internal teams on policy perspectives and priorities to help inform their work and collaboration across the organization 
  • Perform open-source research on a variety of individuals to inform our decision-making 
  • You will write, edit, and substantiate claims made in a variety of research documents 
  • Develop and expand your knowledge base on legislation at the federal and state levels 
  • Track and identify changing candidate positions on a variety of priority issues 
  • Generate and inform product development with other internal teams 
What You Will Bring
  • 4+ years of political research experience 
  • Effective oral and written communicator
  • Incredible, unrelenting attention to detail
  • Ability to juggle multiple projects, customers, and deadlines amidst shifting priorities and embrace change 
  • High degree of digital literacy and social media knowledge
  • Experience with lesser utilized and not mainstream social media platforms
  • Self-starter and have demonstrated experience learning and adapting to changing plans and environments
  • A keen desire to assist in driving impactful changes across all levels of society and appreciate that while politics and elected officials are part of that transformation, they aren't the only solution
  • An incessant curiosity to find the answer and facts and present information in an unbiased, accurate manner
  • Experience performing and critically analyzing open-source research 
  • Knowledge of domestic political landscapes
  • Enthusiasm to contribute to Stand Together's vision and principled approach to solving problems, and a commitment to stewarding our culture, which champions values including transformation and innovation, entrepreneurialism, humility, and respect. 
What We Offer
  • Competitive benefits: Enjoy a 6% 401(k) match with immediate vesting, flexible time off, comprehensive health and dental plans, plus wellness and mental health support through Peloton and Talkspace.
  • A meaningful career: Join a passionate community of over 1,400 employees dedicated to improving lives and driving innovative solutions to complex social challenges.
  • Commitment to growth: Thrive in a non-hierarchical environment that empowers employees to discover, develop and apply their unique talents.
  • Competitive compensation: Our approach rewards the value you create through competitive salaries and bonus opportunities, allowing you to share in the success you help drive.
$90,000 - $130,000 a year
For this role, the anticipated base salary range is $90,000-$130,000 per year. This role may also be eligible for additional bonus compensation designed to align total compensation with an employee's overall contribution to the organization.
 
Our Principles-Based Management (PBM) compensation philosophy is grounded in an individualized approach that rewards the long-term value each person creates for the organization. Compensation decisions are informed by a variety of factors, including relevant experience, capabilities, demonstrated skills, role responsibilities, and expected contribution. Consistent with this approach, base salary may vary within or outside of the anticipated range based on these considerations.
Our Values: Working for an organization within the Stand Together philanthropic community is different from many other places. The culture is deeply rooted in Principle Based Management (PBM), a framework guided by the principles that drive human progress, such as dignity, openness, and bottom-up empowerment. PBM empowers employees to be entrepreneurial, to innovate, and to continually drive transformation.   
 
We believe diversity fuels creativity, broadens knowledge, and helps drive success.  That is why we're proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and strive to treat all employees and applicants with honesty, dignity, and respect.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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