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Political Research Assistant Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Assistant Professor Job Summary: The highly ranked Department of Philosophy, in collaboration with ... The area of research is 17th and 18th century British Political and Moral Philosophy and could ...

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Political Research Assistant information

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$8

$20

$42

How much do political research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for political research assistant in Wisconsin is $20.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.17 and $22.83 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 popular job titles related to Political Research Assistant jobs in Wisconsin?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Political Research Assistant job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,913 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Assistant Professor Of Political Science

Madison, WI • On-site


University of Wisconsin-Madison
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Job description

Current Employees: If you are currently employed at any of the Universities of Wisconsin, log in to Workday to apply through the internal application process.
Job Category: Faculty
Employment Type: Regular
Job Profile: Assistant Professor
Job Summary:
The Department of Political Science seeks to hire an Assistant Professor with a research focus in American Political Thought and/or American Constitutionalism. We are particularly interested in scholars of the American founding period who demonstrate the enduring value and significance of founding-era political and constitutional thought.
Applicants for the position should have a PhD in Political Science with an impressive record of scholarly publication or a productive research program with excellent publishing potential, as well as demonstrated rigor in ongoing and future scholarship. The expectation is that this scholar will teach graduate and undergraduate courses in Political Theory, American Political Thought, the History of Western Political Thought, and/or Constitutional Law. Applicants should therefore demonstrate a record of or potential for teaching excellence in these areas. While the minimum teaching load of 12 credits per academic year is set by State statute and UW policy, through a combination of allowable adjustments, the usual teaching load in the Department of Political Science is three courses per academic year (two in one semester and one in the other).
The successful candidate will advance the educational mission of the College of Letters & Science that values, prioritizes, and actualizes evidence-based and student-centered teaching and (undergraduate student) mentoring. They will contribute to an environment that fosters engagement and a sense of belonging for faculty, staff, students and members of the broader community.
The successful candidate, as a member of the College of L&S, will also proactively contribute to, support, and advance the college's commitment to excellence among all aspects of their teaching, mentoring, research, and service.
In the College of Letters & Science, we provide a liberal arts education that is both broad and deep through excellent, empathic teaching. We hire faculty who are interested in pursuing difficult questions, making new discoveries, and making an impact in their field. We reward excellent teaching and classroom innovation, and we are committed to shared governance. Learn more about the L&S mission on our webpage: https://ls.wisc.edu/about/mission .
Key Job Responsibilities:
The Department of Political Science seeks to hire an Assistant Professor with a research focus in American Political Thought and/or American Constitutionalism. We are particularly interested in scholars of the American founding period who demonstrate the enduring value and significance of founding-era political and constitutional thought.
Applicants for the position should have a PhD in Political Science with an impressive record of scholarly publication or a productive research program with excellent publishing potential, as well as demonstrated rigor in ongoing and future scholarship. The expectation is that this scholar will teach graduate and undergraduate courses in Political Theory, American Political Thought, the History of Western Political Thought, and/or Constitutional Law. Applicants should therefore demonstrate a record of or potential for teaching excellence in these areas.
Department:
Political Science
Compensation:
Negotiable - 9 months / ongoing / renewable
Required Qualifications:
Applicants for the position should have a PhD in Political Science with an impressive record of scholarly publication or a productive research program with excellent publishing potential, as well as demonstrated rigor in ongoing and future scholarship. In addition, the successful candidate will demonstrate fostering or the ability to foster a teaching, learning, mentoring, departmental, and a research environment where all can thrive.
Preferred Qualifications:
NA
Education:
PhD in Political Science or similar by the start of appointment
How to Apply:
Apply online at "Jobs at UW" (http://jobs.wisc.edu) under Job Requisition JR10011980. Applications must be received through UW- Madison's online application system. Applications submitted outside of this system will not be considered. Click the "Apply Now" button to start the application process. Applicants should submit the following items:
1. a letter of application,
2. curriculum vitae,
3. a research statement,
4. a teaching and mentoring statement,
5. a writing sample.
Applicants will receive an email requesting the names and contact information for three references; each reference will each receive an electronic link through which they can upload a signed letter of reference. For full consideration, all materials must be received no later than 11:59pm on September 15. Applications will be accepted until position is filled. Please note that applicants will be evaluated based upon submitted application materials and therefore should speak to and include evidence of their qualifications.
Application materials must clearly demonstrate the applicant's dedication to excellence in student-centered teaching and mentoring. Additionally, materials should showcase the applicant's ability to purposefully plan their teaching practices, evidenced through goals, action plans, reflection, and related documentation. This portion of the application materials must be created by the applicant and may include supporting letters. It cannot be only in the form of letters and testimony by others.
Contact Information:
For questions please contact Professor Jeffrey Church, Search Committee Chair, at jchurch4@wisc.edu
Relay Access (WTRS): 7-1-1. SeeRELAY_SERVICEfor further information.
Institutional Statement on Diversity:
Diversity is a source of strength, creativity, and innovation for UW-Madison. We value the contributions of each person and respect the profound ways their identity, culture, background, experience, status, abilities, and opinion enrich the university community. We commit ourselves to the pursuit of excellence in teaching, research, outreach, and diversity as inextricably linked goals.
The University of Wisconsin-Madison fulfills its public mission by creating a welcoming and inclusive community for people from every background - people who as students, faculty, and staff serve Wisconsin and the world.
The University of Wisconsin-Madison is an Equal OpportunityEmployer.
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to, including but not limited to, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, or status as a protected veteran and other bases as defined by federal regulations and UW System policies. We promote excellence by acknowledging skills and expertise from all backgroundsand encourage all qualified individuals to apply. For more information regarding applicant and employee rights and to view federal and state required postings, visit the Human Resources Workplace Poster website.
To request a disability or pregnancy-related accommodationfor any step in the hiring process (e.g., application, interview, pre-employment testing, etc.), please contact the Divisional Disability Representative (DDR)in the division you are applying to.Please make your request as soon as possible to help the university respond most effectively to you.
Employment may require a criminal background check. It may also require your references to answer questions regarding misconduct, including sexual violence and sexual harassment.
The University of Wisconsin System will not reveal the identities of applicants who request confidentiality in writing, except that the identity of the successful candidate will be released. See Wis. Stat. sec. 19.36(7).
The Annual Security and Fire Safety Report contains current campus safety and disciplinary policies, crime statistics for the previous 3 calendar years, and on-campus student housing fire safety policies and fire statistics for the previous 3 calendar years. UW-Madison will provide a paper copy upon request; please contact the University of Wisconsin Police Department.

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About University of Wisconsin

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The University of Wisconsin, based in Madison, WI, US, functions in the educational industry and is a renowned and respected institution for higher education. Its official website is wisc.edu. Established in 1848, this public research university is recognized globally for its innovative approach to education, research, creativity, and public service. It embodies a strong commitment to academic freedom and academic excellence. As a major contributor to the Wisconsin Idea, it aims to accomplish its mission of generating well-rounded individuals who will contribute substantially to society, the local community, and the global economy.

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Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Madison, WI, US

Year founded

2005


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