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Political Research Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Data Scientist

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$60K - $75K/yr

This role sits at the intersection of data science, engineering, and political analysis. The work ranges from modeling voter behavior to building internal platforms that accelerate research workflows ...

Data Scientist

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$60K - $75K/yr

This role sits at the intersection of data science, engineering, and political analysis. The work ranges from modeling voter behavior to building internal platforms that accelerate research workflows ...

Data Scientist

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$125 - $150/hr

This role sits at the intersection of data science, engineering, and political analysis. The work ranges from modeling voter behavior to building internal platforms that accelerate research workflows ...

Skilled at breaking down political institution analysis, policy evaluation, and research design for political science. Guides students through analyzing legislative processes, comparing political ...

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Political Research information

What is a political research?

A Political Research job involves analyzing political trends, policies, and public opinions to provide insights for governments, organizations, or campaigns. Researchers gather data from surveys, historical records, and news sources to assess political developments and their potential impact. They may also evaluate legislation, electoral strategies, and social issues to support decision-making. Political researchers often work for think tanks, advocacy groups, media organizations, or political parties. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and an understanding of political systems are essential for this role.

What does a political research do?

In political research roles, daily tasks often include gathering and analyzing political data, monitoring news sources and legislative developments, and preparing reports or briefings for stakeholders. Researchers may design surveys, conduct interviews, and use statistical software to interpret trends or voter behavior. Collaboration with policy analysts, communications teams, and campaign staff is common to ensure research findings are integrated into strategic decision-making. The work environment can range from academic and non-profit organizations to government agencies and private consulting firms, often involving tight deadlines and quick turnarounds.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in political research?

To thrive in Political Research, you need strong analytical skills, proficiency in data collection and statistical analysis, and a background in political science or related fields. Familiarity with tools such as SPSS, Excel, GIS software, and experience with survey platforms or public databases is advantageous. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and excellent written and verbal communication are vital soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for generating accurate, actionable insights that inform policy, campaigns, or organizational strategies in a fast-paced environment.

How to become a political research analyst?

To become a political research analyst, typically a bachelor's degree in political science, public policy, or a related field is required. Developing skills in data analysis, research methods, and familiarity with tools like SPSS or Stata is important, and gaining experience through internships or entry-level research positions can help build expertise in political analysis.

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 jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Political Research job openings:

Infographic showing various Political Research job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution.

Major Donor/Sales Research Coordinator

CPAC Foundation

Alexandria, VA • On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Position Overview

We are looking for a meticulous and collaborative individual to join our organization. The Major Donor/Sales Research Coordinator will support CPAC's major donor development operation by identifying, researching, and qualifying prospective donors from CPAC's existing universe of attendees, mail donors, past donors, sponsors, VIP participants, and other known contacts.

This role will help build a disciplined donor pipeline by analyzing internal giving history, conducting wealth and philanthropic research, preparing prospect profiles, and supporting senior leadership with the information needed to engage top prospects effectively.

Key Responsibilities

Name and research prospective major donors from CPAC's existing donors, attendees, sponsors, and event lists.

Conduct wealth screening and public-source research to assess donor capacity, philanthropic giving, political and issue affinity, and relationship pathways.

Analyze internal gift history to identify current donors, lapsed donors, upgrade opportunities, loyal low-dollar donors, and highly engaged event participants.

Screen approximately 250 to 500 prospects per month and qualify approximately 75 to 125 prospects per month based on capacity, affinity, access, and readiness.

Help move approximately 20 to 40 qualified prospects per month into active cultivation with a clear recommended next step.

Prepare concise prospect profiles and briefing materials for senior leadership, board members, and other donor-facing leaders.

Maintain correct prospect records in the donor database or development tracking system.

Support weekly move-management meetings by tracking next steps, follow-up actions, and prospect activity.

Help with donor stewardship by identifying donors who should receive thank-you calls, personalized updates, event invitations, or re-engagement outreach.

Qualifications

Experience of 1 year minimum in prospect research and development, fundraising operations, political research, public records research preferred.

Strong research, writing, analytical, and organizational skills.

Effective communication skills and collaborative mindset.

Able to evaluate donor capacity, affinity, access, and readiness.

Familiarity with donor databases, CRM systems, spreadsheets, wealth-screening tools, or public research platforms preferred.

Ability to format information into clear, useful donor briefings.

Strong diligence and data accuracy. Ability to manage confidential information with discretion.

Commitment to CPAC's mission and understanding of the conservative movement preferred.

Reporting Relationship

The Prospect Researcher will report to the VP, Events & Giving and work closely with senior leadership, development staff, and other donor-facing principals to support CPAC's major donor pipeline and long-term philanthropic revenue growth.

Benefits Offered:

CPAC offers a competitive benefits package that includes health care, vision, and dental insurance available Day One, Employer 401k plan, Personal Time off and Float Holidays to use at employee discretion. This is an hourly position, rate range is $21 - $23, based on experience.