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Political Science Graduate Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

MANTECH

Counterintelligence Officer

Springfield, VA · On-site

$49K - $65K/yr

... Political Science, Library Science, Engineering, Mathematics, or a related field. * 7+ years of ... Be a credentialed graduate of an accredited federal or DoD CI training academy (e.g., FBI Academy)

MANTECH

Counterintelligence Officer

Springfield, VA · On-site

$49K - $65K/yr

... Political Science, Library Science, Engineering, Mathematics, or a related field. * 7+ years of ... Be a credentialed graduate of an accredited federal or DoD CI training academy (e.g., FBI Academy)

ManTech

Counterintelligence Officer

Springfield, VA

$85K - $141K/yr

... Political Science, Library Science, Engineering, Mathematics, or a related field. * 7+ years of ... Be a credentialed graduate of an accredited federal or DoD CI training academy (e.g., FBI Academy)

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All JobsPolitical Science Graduate JobsPolitical Science Graduate Jobs in Virginia

Political Science Graduate information

See Virginia salary details

$24.3K

$48K

$78.3K

How much do political science graduate jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for political science graduate in Virginia is $47,976.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,200.00 and $51,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a political science graduate?

Political science graduates are individuals who have completed a degree in political science, a field that studies government systems, political behavior, public policies, and international relations. They develop strong analytical, research, and communication skills, which are valuable in a wide range of careers. Political science graduates often pursue roles in government, public administration, policy analysis, international organizations, journalism, or continue their education in law or graduate school.

What types of entry-level roles are commonly available to political science graduates, and how can I determine which path best suits my interests?

Political science graduates often find entry-level opportunities in government agencies, non-profit organizations, public policy research, political campaigns, and consulting firms. To determine which path aligns with your interests, consider the aspects of your studies you enjoyed most—such as policy analysis, research, or community engagement—and seek internships or informational interviews in those areas. Many graduates start as research assistants, legislative aides, or policy analysts, gaining valuable experience and networking opportunities that can lead to more specialized roles. Exploring a variety of roles early on can help you identify the work environment and responsibilities that suit you best.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a political science graduate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Political Science Graduate, you need strong analytical thinking, research abilities, and a solid understanding of political systems, often backed by a bachelor's degree in political science or related fields. Familiarity with data analysis tools, statistical software (such as SPSS or Stata), and policy research platforms is commonly expected. Outstanding written and verbal communication, critical thinking, and adaptability are essential soft skills for engaging with complex issues and diverse audiences. These skills and qualifications are crucial for effectively analyzing policies, communicating findings, and contributing to informed decision-making in governmental, nonprofit, or private sector roles.

What is the difference between Political Science Graduate vs Policy Analyst?

AspectPolitical Science GraduatePolicy 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 EnvironmentGovernment agencies, NGOs, research institutions, think tanksGovernment departments, think tanks, consulting firms, advocacy groups
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across public sector, non-profits, research organizationsPrimarily in policy development, analysis, and advocacy roles
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While a Political Science Graduate typically holds a bachelor's degree and works in various public sector or research settings, a Policy Analyst often has additional training or experience in policy analysis and works specifically on developing and evaluating policies. Both roles share similar educational backgrounds and work environments, but Policy Analysts usually focus more on policy formulation and impact assessment.

What can I do with a master's degree in political science?

A political science graduate with a master's degree can pursue careers in government, policy analysis, public administration, or international relations. These roles often require strong research, analytical, and communication skills, and may involve working in offices, think tanks, or NGOs.

What job is best for political science graduates?

Political science graduates often pursue careers as policy analysts, government relations specialists, legislative assistants, or public affairs managers. These roles typically require strong research, communication, and analytical skills, and may involve working in government agencies, non-profit organizations, or political consulting firms.

What kind of career can I get with a political science graduate?

A political science graduate can pursue careers in government, public policy, political analysis, lobbying, international relations, or non-profit organizations. These roles often require strong research, communication, and analytical skills, and may involve working with data, policy development, or advocacy efforts.

What are popular job titles related to Political Science Graduate jobs in Virginia?

For Political Science Graduate jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Political Science Graduate jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Political Science Graduate jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Political Science Graduate jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Political Science Graduate job openings:

Political Science Graduate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Political Science Graduate job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,976 per year, or $23.1 per hour.

Assistant Professor, U.S. Politics & Political Institutions

Blacksburg, VA • On-site

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 5 - 10K employees
Learn more about Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State Universityexternal

$72K - $82K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Teach four courses a year on U.S. political institutions, constitutional law, judicial process, and related fields.

  • Contribute to advising pre-law students across the university.

  • Engage in research related to U.S. politics and political institutions, demonstrating an active research agenda.

Virginia Tech rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 67 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Assistant Professor, U.S. Politics & Political Institutions
Job no: 536898
Work type: Teaching & Research Faculty
Senior management: Liberal Arts and Human Sciences
Department: Political Science
Location: Blacksburg, Virginia
Categories: Instructional / Teaching Faculty
Job Description
The Department of Political Science invites applications for a tenure-track position of assistant professor in U.S. politics and political institutions with strengths in one or more of the following: U.S. national and subnational institutions, judicial politics, U.S. and/or state constitutional law, law and courts, civil rights, and related fields. Candidates with additional specializations in historical institutionalism, voting rights, and jurisprudence including critical legal studies are also encouraged to apply. Teaching requirements for this position will be four courses a year, including a selection of undergraduate courses on U.S. political institutions, constitutional law, judicial process, and additional courses within the candidate's specialization. Candidates may also be expected to contribute to advising pre-law students from throughout the University.
How to Apply
Screening of applications will begin September 21, 2026. Please submit:
  • Curriculum vitae
  • Cover letter
  • Recent writing Sample
  • Teaching evaluations or portfolio
  • A list of three references (names, address, phone numbers, and email contacts)

Please direct questions to Dr. Nicholas Goedert, Search Committee Chair, Department of Political Science, Major Williams Hall (0130), Blacksburg, VA 24061. Phone: (540) 231-7665, email: ngoedert@vt.edu.
Required Qualifications
  • Earned doctorate in government or political science at the time of application or degree in hand by hire date, August 2027.
  • An active research agenda with strengths in U.S. political institutions including one or more of the fields listed above.
  • Demonstrated effectiveness in undergraduate and graduate teaching to meet the department's key teaching needs in its B.A. and M.A. programs.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Preference will be given to broadly trained candidates who have grounding and skills in a variety of theoretical, analytical, and methodological approaches, and who can work with undergraduate and graduate students at the master's and doctoral levels in political science and related fields.
  • Prior teaching experience at the undergraduate and/or graduate level is preferred.

Overtime Status
Exempt: Not eligible for overtime
Appointment Type
Regular
Salary Information
Commensurate with Experience, range $72,000 to $82,000
Hours per week
Review Date
September 21, 2026
Additional Information
The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.
About Virginia Tech
Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke, sites in Newport News and Richmond, and numerous Extension offices and research institutes. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually.
Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance. These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.
Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.
If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Kim Hedge at khedge@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.
Advertised: July 6, 2026
Applications close:
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About Virginia Tech

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Virginia Tech, guided by its motto "Ut Prosim" (That I May Serve), embraces a hands-on, interdisciplinary approach to educate scholars as leaders and problem-solvers. As a comprehensive land-grant institution, it enriches the quality of life in Virginia and worldwide, fostering an inclusive community focused on knowledge, discovery, and creativity. With over 280 majors, the university serves a diverse student body of more than 36,000 across undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Virginia Tech's presence extends throughout Virginia, including campuses in Northern Virginia, Roanoke, Newport News, and Richmond, along with multiple Extension offices and research centers. As a prominent global research institution, it conducts over $500 million in research annually.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Blacksburg, VA, US

Year founded

1872

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