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Political Science Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Political Science Associate information

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How much do political science associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for political science associate in Chicago, IL is $16.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $17.84 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 Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Political Science jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Political Science Associate jobs in Chicago, IL? For Political Science Associate jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Political Science Associate jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Political Science Associate jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Political Science Associate jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Political Science Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Political Science Associate job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Part Time. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $34,502 per year, or $16.6 per hour.
Adjunct Faculty, Political Science

Adjunct Faculty, Political Science

The College of Lake County

Grayslake, IL • On-site

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


College Of Lake County rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

97th of 611 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Why choose the College of Lake County for your next opportunity?
The College of Lake County (CLC) offers a competitive salary, excellent benefits that includes Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois health, Delta Dental and Superior Vision insurance plans, tuition support for employees and qualified family members, three retirement plans, disability, group and supplemental life insurance, health and dependent care flexible spending account plans, a compressed work week in the summer (Closed Fridays!), generous vacation, sick and personal time off and 14 paid holidays each year. Some benefits will not be available for part-time or part-time under 20 hours employees (ex: health insurance).
Position Title:
Adjunct Faculty, Political Science
Job Summary:
The College of Lake County is looking for an Adjunct Faculty, Political Science to join the team. The Adjunct Faculty will teach classes in Political Science. The faculty member will be responsible for developing instructional materials including course plans, syllabi, objectives, and evaluation tools.
The College of Lake County (CLC) is a comprehensive community college located in northeastern Illinois committed to being an innovative educational institution providing life-changing paths for our students by offering exceptional learning experiences.
The college is widely recognized for student success, business and community partnerships and for the achievements of our faculty, staff and alumni. Long-known as an employer of choice in Lake County, CLC was ranked #15 on the Forbes list of Top 100 Employers in the State of Illinois for 2019.
Job Description:
  • Teach courses in subject field. Develop instructional materials. Assess student learning and assign grades. Attend required Adjunct meetings in the Fall and Spring semesters. Participate in college governance and other aspects of academic life. Maintain current knowledge of subject matter.
  • Adjunct Faculty members are expected to maintain current in compliance training, including compliance under Title IX "Responsible Employee" and, if applicable, Clery Act Campus Security Authority.
  • Select, prepare and maintain current curriculum, course outlines and printed and non-printed instructional materials.
  • Teach courses as scheduled each academic semester.
  • Provide instructional support to the students. Refer students, when appropriate, to sources of specialized services within the College.
  • Provide the Division and the students a syllabus that includes course objectives and learning outcomes, attendance policies in line with those of the college, texts and readings, timelines and evaluation criteria, and any other information required by College, Division, or departmental policy.
  • Observe and evaluate student performance in meeting course objectives and learning outcomes through assignments, projects, discussions or examinations. Provide feedback in a timely manner on student progress.
  • Deliver course content using a variety of teaching styles.
  • Maintain office/discipline/grade/division records as required by the College.
  • Be available for student consultation through phone or email.
  • Use the appropriate College policies and procedures to resolve and document student complaints, concerns and problems.
  • Assist in developing and administering discipline-appropriate measures of student academic achievement, use departmental testing instruments as provided. Administer other instruments designed to measure student learning outcomes as requested and required by the department. Provide all results as requested.
  • Conduct all classes in accordance with an established and current course syllabus and approved textbooks (and/or related instructional material).
  • Meet all classes for the scheduled time.
  • Submit all grades (mid/final) electronically prior to the required deadlines.
  • Provide the Registrar appropriate grade records.
  • Encourage students to submit course evaluations, review course evaluations when available and use feedback to improve course delivery.
  • Revise and update course content as needed.
  • Participate, when appropriate, in the formation and meetings of program advisory boards, college, division, and department committees.
  • Maintain a high level of professional ethics.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by the Dean or Associate Dean.
  • Classes may be scheduled at any of our campuses: Grayslake, Waukegan,
  • Vernon Hills, or online.
  • Primarily an in-person teaching position
  • POSITIONS SUPERVISED: None

Required Qualifications
  • Master's Degree in Political Science -OR- Master's degree in a behavioral science with at least eighteen (18) graduate semester hours in Political Science.
  • Ability to work effectively and constructively with persons of diverse cultures, gender identities, language groups, and abilities; demonstrate sensitivity to and ability to work with the diverse
  • academic, socioeconomic, cultural and ethnic backgrounds of community college students, faculty, and staff, including those with disabilities; establish and maintain effective working relationships with
  • those contacted in the course of work.
  • Applicants should have experience using Zoom and be comfortable using Zoom while teaching in a multi modality setting, with students attending both in person and remotely via Zoom.
  • Competency in technologies commonly used in college level instruction.

Desired Qualifications
  • Prior college level teaching experience in Political Science.
  • Demonstrated professional learning or certification in evidence-based student-focused pedagogical teaching and assessment practice such as ACUE, workshops and data use
  • Two years relevant business experience.

Per Load Hour Compensation Schedule
2025 -2026 - $1,373
2026 -2027 - $1,414
This posting will be used to obtain a pool of qualified candidates. When openings are available, the department will contact selected candidates for interviews.
Full-Time/Part-Time:
Part time
Total Hours Per Week:
5
Position Type:
Faculty
Job Family:
Part-Time Faculty
Posting Date:
04/14/2026
Expected Start Date:
08/01/2026
Compensation Grade:
Location:
Grayslake Campus
Department:
JM - Business & Social Sciences Operations Department
EEO Statement
College of Lake County is an Equal Opportunity Employer with a policy of non-discrimination. Qualified applicants are considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age (40 or older), disability and genetic information (including family medical history).

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