ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Political Research Intern Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Center for Naval Analyses

Service Desk - Intern

Arlington, VA · On-site

$17.50 - $23/hr

Conduct research for assigned projects. * Assist in analyzing data gathered in support of a project ... political affiliation, military service and protected veterans, or other non-merit based factors.

New

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPolitical Research Intern JobsPolitical Research Intern Jobs in Virginia

Political Research Intern information

What does a political research intern do?

A Political Research Intern assists political organizations, campaigns, or think tanks by gathering and analyzing data on political trends, policies, and public opinion. Their tasks often include conducting literature reviews, creating reports, and supporting senior researchers with administrative or data-related duties. This role helps interns develop analytical skills, understand the political process, and gain experience with research methodologies. The position is ideal for students or recent graduates interested in political science, public policy, or government work.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a political research intern?

To thrive as a Political Research Intern, you need strong analytical abilities, research proficiency, and a background in political science or related fields, often supported by enrollment in or completion of a relevant degree program. Familiarity with data analysis tools, public policy databases, and software like Excel or SPSS is commonly required. Excellent written and verbal communication, attention to detail, and adaptability are standout soft skills in this role. These skills are crucial for producing accurate, insightful research that informs policy decisions and supports the goals of political organizations or campaigns.

What types of projects and tasks can I expect to work on as a political research intern?

As a Political Research Intern, you can expect to contribute to a variety of projects, such as compiling and analyzing data on legislative trends, tracking policy developments, and preparing briefing materials for senior staff. Typical daily responsibilities include conducting literature reviews, summarizing news coverage, and assisting with the creation of reports or presentations. Collaboration is common, as you'll likely work closely with other interns, research analysts, and policy experts, gaining insight into the research process and how findings inform advocacy or campaign strategies. This hands-on experience helps you develop analytical and communication skills vital for future roles in political research or policy analysis.

What is the difference between Political Research Intern vs Political Campaign Assistant?

AspectPolitical Research InternPolitical Campaign Assistant
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recent graduate in political science, communications, or related fieldSimilar educational background, often with some experience in campaigns or volunteering
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, research-focused, often in offices or remotelyCampaign offices, event coordination, voter outreach activities
Employer & Industry UsagePolitical organizations, think tanks, government agenciesPolitical campaigns, candidate offices, advocacy groups
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level research roles in politicsLearning about campaign support roles and grassroots activities

The main difference is that a Political Research Intern primarily focuses on gathering and analyzing political data and policy research, while a Political Campaign Assistant is more involved in supporting campaign operations, voter outreach, and event coordination. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and are common in political organizations, but they serve different functions within the political landscape.

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 cities in Virginia are hiring for Political Research Intern jobs?

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

Political Research Intern jobs near you

Fall 2026 Research Intern

Cook Political Report

Arlington, VA • On-site

Other

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Job Opportunity

Research interns at The Cook Political Report are responsible for a mix of long-term projects and daily administrative tasks and are invited to attend meetings and any relevant virtual panels or press conferences. Interns are responsible for:

  • Research: Updating internal and external polling trackers. Researching select House, Senate and/or Governors candidates. Learning to create a FEC report & pull ad spending data. Assisting with historical research of past House, Senate and Governors elections.
  • Projects: Assisting an editor on a project with a deliverable.
  • Writing and editing: Supporting website content updates by searching for broken links and other errors on the website. Learning the basics of HTML.
  • Internal meetings: Attending weekly staff meetings. Attending meetings with the supervising editor/mentor. Attending any training calls with editors to support efforts on their weekly projects and tasks.

This position is an in-person opportunity, developed for students who are applying for this position to fulfill an academic requirement. We occasionally have paid internship positions available as well. Ideal candidates are:

  • Actively pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree in Government, Political Science or a related field of study.
  • Experienced with spreadsheets (Excel, Sheets, etc), data visualization and digital publishing.
  • Comfortable working independently.
  • Outstanding writers with excellent attention to detail.

The Cook Political Report provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, or disability. In addition to federal law requirements, The Cook Political Report complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. Invincible Summer Media, Inc. expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status.

Apply