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Political Researcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

John DiStaso Political Fellowship The John DiStaso Political Fellowship is a one-semester paid ... Excellent writing and research skills * Excellent communication and interpersonal skills * Deadline ...

We look for applicants who have great political instincts and knowledge of politicians, political parties, outside groups, and the legislative process. The ideal Research Associate candidate should ...

About HIT Strategies HIT Strategies is an insights firm that decodes the political and consumer landscape where traditional firms fail. Our diverse team of researchers specialize in reaching the ...

About HIT Strategies HIT Strategies is an insights firm that decodes the political and consumer landscape where traditional firms fail. Our diverse team of researchers specialize in reaching the ...

Position Information Position Title Assistant Professor of Political Science Job Summary The ... Demonstrated potential for scholarly research and publication Physical Demands FLSA Exempt Status ...

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Political Researcher information

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$30K

$113.1K

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How much do political researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for political researcher in the United States is $113,102.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $154,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Political Researchers face when gathering and analyzing data?

Political Researchers often encounter challenges such as accessing reliable and up-to-date information, especially from restricted or rapidly changing sources. Balancing objectivity and accuracy when interpreting data is essential, as is managing tight deadlines for delivering research to stakeholders. Additionally, researchers frequently collaborate with analysts, policy experts, and communication teams, requiring strong communication skills to ensure findings are clearly presented and actionable.

What does a political researcher do?

A political researcher gathers, analyzes, and interprets data related to political systems, public policies, elections, and government activities. They often work for think tanks, political parties, advocacy groups, or academic institutions, supporting decision-making by providing insights and recommendations. Their work may include conducting surveys, reviewing legislation, monitoring media, and preparing reports on political trends or issues. Political researchers play a vital role in informing political strategies and public understanding of political processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Political Researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Political Researcher, you need strong analytical skills, a background in political science or a related field, and experience in qualitative and quantitative research methods. Familiarity with data analysis software (such as SPSS or Stata), public databases, and citation management tools is typically required. Excellent written and verbal communication, attention to detail, and critical thinking are vital soft skills for interpreting information and presenting findings. These abilities enable Political Researchers to produce accurate, insightful analysis that supports policy decisions, campaigns, and scholarly work.
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What cities are hiring for Political Researcher jobs? Cities with the most Political Researcher job openings:
What states have the most Political Researcher jobs? States with the most job openings for Political Researcher jobs include:
Infographic showing various Political Researcher job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,102 per year, or $54.4 per hour.

John DiStaso Political Fellowship

Hearst Newspapers

Manchester, NH

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

John DiStaso Political Fellowship

The John DiStaso Political Fellowship is a one-semester paid position at Hearst ABC affiliate WMUR-TV in Manchester, NH.  Our Fellow will work closely with members of our political team on several projects including daily political coverage, our 2022 and 2024 election-related coverage, and our weekly political show, "CloseUP".  The Fellowship will be awarded to a motivated junior or senior in college who is interested in pursuing a career in political journalism.

More about John DiStaso

John DiStaso was the most experienced political journalist in New Hampshire. He was often referred to as the "dean" of New Hampshire's political press corps. John died from complications of pancreatic cancer on April 21, 2022, at the age of 68.  Throughout his career, DiStaso interviewed four sitting presidents and countless presidential candidates while covering 11 New Hampshire primaries. John spent much of his career working for New Hampshire's largest newspaper, "The Union Leader".  He spent the last seven years of his career working for WMUR, where he wrote daily for WMUR.com regularly breaking stories.  He also often appeared on WMUR-TV to provide analysis for political stories.

The opportunity

In this political fellowship, you'll play a meaningful role on the experienced political team of WMUR. You'll follow in John's footsteps working on daily political coverage. You'll learn from John's enduring legacy, as well as the experienced political team at WMUR to gain the knowledge and experience to launch a successful career in political journalism.

How to qualify

  • Working toward a bachelor's degree in Political Science, Journalism, Communications or a related degree
  • Experience in journalism through internships or college media
  • Goal to work in the field of journalism
  • Excellent writing and research skills
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Deadline driven
  • Willingness to work various shifts including nights, weekends and holidays
  • You also need to have a strong academic record, and two recommendations from faculty or internship supervisors

How to apply

Please apply on our career site. Include the following documentation in your application:

  • Include the following documentation in your application:
    • A letter expressing interest in the fellowship and promoting your candidacy
    • A summary of your commitment to journalism (one page, single-spaced)
    • A current resume citing work experience and accomplishments
    • A complete academic transcript through your completed semester
    • Two academic or professional recommendations
    • Finalists will be interviewed by phone and either in-person or via video conference

Application deadlines

For the fall fellowship, applications are due by June 15th. For the spring fellowship, applications are due by September 15th. Decisions regarding fall selection will be made in July and decisions regarding spring selection will be made in October.

Hearst Television (HTV) owns and/or operates 35 television and two radio stations serving 27 media markets across 39 states reaching over 22 million U.S. television households. HTV is recognized as one of the industry's premier broadcasting companies and has been honored with numerous awards for distinguished journalism, industry innovation, and community service.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. we do not discriminate in hiring on the basis of sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, creed, national, origin, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.