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How much do political science associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for political science associate in California is $16.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.95 and $17.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Political Science Associate typically collaborate with senior researchers and policy analysts on projects?

Political Science Associates often work closely with senior researchers and policy analysts by assisting in data collection, literature reviews, and the preparation of research reports. They may participate in team meetings to discuss project objectives, share preliminary findings, and contribute to the development of research methodologies. This collaboration provides valuable mentorship opportunities and helps Associates gain exposure to various research techniques and policy issues. Additionally, Political Science Associates may have the chance to co-author publications or present findings, supporting their professional growth within the field.

What can I do with an associate's degree in political science?

A political science associate's degree prepares individuals for entry-level roles such as legislative aide, research assistant, or community outreach coordinator. It also provides foundational skills useful for careers in public administration, advocacy, or further education in political science or related fields.

What is the difference between Political Science Associate vs Political Analyst?

AspectPolitical Science AssociatePolitical Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in political science or related fieldBachelor's or master's degree in political science, public policy, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch institutions, government agencies, NGOsThink tanks, government offices, media outlets
Employer & Industry UsageAcademic, government, nonprofit sectorsMedia, policy research, government consulting
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Political Science Associate and a Political Analyst lies in their roles. Political Science Associates typically focus on research, data collection, and supporting projects within academic or nonprofit settings. Political Analysts often interpret political data, provide insights, and influence policy or media coverage. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds, but their job functions and work environments differ slightly.

What jobs are associated with a degree in political science?

A degree in political science can lead to careers such as policy analyst, government affairs specialist, legislative assistant, public relations manager, or political consultant. These roles often require strong research, communication, and analytical skills, and may involve working in government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private firms.

Is an Associates in political science worth it?

An associate's degree in political science can provide foundational knowledge of government, policy, and research methods, which can be useful for entry-level roles such as research assistant or legislative aide. However, many higher-level positions in political science typically require a bachelor's or master's degree, so the value depends on career goals and the level of responsibility desired.

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

To thrive as a Political Science Associate, you typically need a strong foundation in political theory, research methods, data analysis, and a relevant bachelor’s or master’s degree. Familiarity with statistical software (such as SPSS or Stata), academic databases, and government information systems is often required. Analytical thinking, strong written and verbal communication, and attention to detail help set candidates apart. These skills are crucial for producing insightful research, interpreting complex data, and supporting policy analysis or academic projects accurately.

What professions make 200,000 a year without a degree?

In the field of political science, roles such as political consultants, lobbyists, or government affairs directors can reach or exceed $200,000 annually, often requiring extensive experience, networking, and specialized skills. Outside of this field, professions like sales managers, real estate brokers, or entrepreneurs may also achieve this income level without a formal degree, but success typically depends on performance, industry knowledge, and business acumen.

What does a Political Science Associate do?

A Political Science Associate supports research and analysis related to political systems, government policies, and public affairs. They often assist senior researchers or professors by gathering data, conducting literature reviews, and preparing reports or presentations. Their work may involve qualitative or quantitative research, tracking political trends, and contributing to policy recommendations. Political Science Associates may work in academic, governmental, or private sector organizations, helping to inform decision-making and public understanding of political issues.
What are the most commonly searched types of Political Science jobs in California? The most popular types of Political Science jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Political Science Associate jobs in California? For Political Science Associate jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Political Science Associate jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Political Science Associate jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Political Science Associate jobs? Cities in California with the most Political Science Associate job openings:
Political Science Associate jobs near you
Associate Instructor (Political Science)

Associate Instructor (Political Science)

Mt. San Jacinto College

CA • On-site

$66.84 - $74.07/hr

Part-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Salary: $66.84 - $74.07 Hourly
Location : District Wide (multiple campuses), CA
Job Type: Part Time
Job Number: 00828
Department: Political Science
Division: Instruction
Opening Date: 05/17/2017
Closing Date: Continuous
Salary Level: 1
Salary Schedule Range (From Step - To): 1 - 3
Weekly Hours: Varies (TBD)
Daily Work Schedule (Start - Stop): Varies (TBD)
Contract Length: Less than 10 months
Occupational Group: F Faculty
Position Type: A Non Regular Faculty (Facl or Non T Facl)
Categorically Funded: No
# of Positions: 5
JOB SUMMARY
ABOUT ASSOCIATE FACULTY:
Mt. San Jacinto Community College District welcomes applications on an on-going basis for Associate Faculty positions. We invite candidates to join the Associate Instructor (Political Science) pool. Applications meeting the minimum qualifications will be stored electronically for six (6) months following verification. Qualified applications will be referred to deans and department chairs, who will contact candidates for interviews as needs arise.
This position is in the University Professional and Technical Employees CWA Local 9119 AFL-CIO Union - http://www.upte.org
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements and duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to this class.
  • Provide instruction that includes lecture and/or laboratory classes in Assigned Course in accordance with established Mt. San Jacinto Community College District approved curriculum and course outlines
  • Inform students about course requirements, evaluation procedures, attendance and participation requirements in a course syllabus
  • Effectively teach and communicate with students of diverse backgrounds
  • Advise students on academic and career matters
  • Maintain necessary attendance, scholastic and student records, and submit them according to published guidelines
  • Prepare and grade class assignments and evaluations according to course syllabus
  • Maintain currency in field
  • Develop, maintain and evaluate curriculum
  • Develop, maintain and review course specific and program level student learning outcomes
  • Promote student success through the scholarship of teaching and learning

QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS
REQUIRED APPLICATION MATERIALS
Applicants must upload only the documents listed below. Additional attachments will not be accepted and may result in the application being deemed incomplete or not considered for review.
  • Resume/Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • Transcripts, including a foreign transcript evaluation report (if applicable)
  • Cover Letter
  • (Optional) Petition for Equivalence
  • (Optional) Additional Transcripts

***The degree(s) listed on your conferred transcript(s) must precisely align with the degree titles specified in the and as outlined below. If the degree title on your transcript varies from the specified title, your application will be considered as not meeting the minimum qualifications. In such cases, applicants are strongly encouraged to submit a Petition for Equivalence. For more information and access to the petition form, please visit the webpage***
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  1. A Master's degree from an accredited institution in political science, government, or international relations; OR
  2. A Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in political science, government, or international relations; AND A Master's degree from an accredited institution in economics, history, public administration, social science, sociology, any ethnic studies, Juris Doctor Degree (J.D.), or Legum Baccalaureus (LL.B.); OR
  3. The Equivalent

***To ensure a fair and compliant screening process, application materials must only include minimal personal information. Application materials must not include your date of birth, Social Security number, photographs, URLs, QR codes, LinkedIn profiles, or any other embedded links directing to personal information or external websites. The only exception applies to transcript documents where certain information may appear by default. Application submissions containing any of the above items will be marked as incomplete and will not be considered***
ACADEMIC EQUIVALENCY
Minimum qualifications for Faculty and Administrators for California Community Colleges are established by the Chancellor's Office. Applicants who do not meet the minimum qualifications to teach in a desired discipline but feel that they possess the equivalent of qualifications, may attach an Application for Equivalence. Applicants who claim equivalent qualifications shall provide conclusive evidence that they possess qualifications that are at least equivalent to those required by the minimum qualifications. The conclusive evidence must be as clear and reliable as college transcripts.
Applicants may view the Chancellor's Office minimum qualifications, and Academic Equivalency related forms and policies by viewing the Academic Equivalency link on the Human Resources web page.
Please note, submission of a Petition for Equivalence with an application packet does not guarantee approval or advancement through a recruitment process. The Board of Trustees assures that all employees and applicants for employment will be provided equal opportunity regardless of race, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, or veteran status.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT
The conditions herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals to perform the essential job functions.
Environment: Work is generally performed in an indoor classroom that may also include working in a lab setting.
Physical: Primary function requires sufficient physical ability and mobility to work in a classroom and or lab setting and may travel from site to site; to stand or sit for prolonged periods of time; to occasionally stoop, bend, kneel, crouch, reach and twist; to lift carry, push, and/or pull light to moderate amounts of weight occasionally lifting up to 30 pounds or more, carrying supplies, equipment; to operate classroom equipment requiring repetitive hand movements and fine coordination including use of a computer keyboard; and to verbally communicate to exchange information.
Vision: See in the normal visual range with or without correction; vision sufficient to read computer screens and printed documents; and to operate assigned equipment.
Hearing: Hear in the normal audio range with or without correction.
THE COLLEGE
To learn more about Mt. San Jacinto Community College District, you may visit .
BENEFITS DEPEND ON JOB CLASSIFICATION:
MSJC offers benefits to permanent, full-time and part-time employees. Detailed information is provided during employee New Hire Benefits Orientation.
To review the Benefits Summary, click
01
Do you have a conferred Master's degree in political science, government, or international relations? *must attach transcripts with your submission - see Transcript Tips on the job posting*
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you have a conferred Bachelor's degree in political science, government, or international relations; AND a conferred Master's degree in economics, history, public administration, social science, sociology, any ethnic studies, JD, or LL.B. ? *must attach transcripts with your submission - see Transcript Tips on the job posting*
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

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