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Political Science Graduate Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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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Political Science Graduate information

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$24.3K

$48K

$78.3K

How much do political science graduate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 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, 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,976 per year, or $23.1 per hour.

Counterintelligence Officer

ManTech

Springfield, VA

$85K - $141K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

ManTech rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

33rd of 244 rated software companies

Job description

Description & Requirements
Unlock the secrets of intelligence with MANTECH! Join a dynamic team at the forefront of national security, providing advanced solutions to government intelligence agencies. Since 1968, we've been solving the toughest challenges with groundbreaking tech. Explore thrilling projects in Digital Transformation, Cybersecurity, IT, Data Analytics and Software Development. Elevate your career and make a difference. Your adventure begins now-unleash your potential with MANTECH!

MANTECH seeks a motivated, career and customer-oriented Counterintelligence Officer to join our team in Springfield, VA.

Responsibilities

  • Conduct defensive CI operations to protect missions, personnel, programs, technology, and information systems from intelligence, terrorism, and espionage threats.
  • Research, gather, evaluate, and interpret all-source information to identify and analyze intelligence, terrorism, and espionage threats against organizational and national systems.
  • Provide comprehensive CI analyses and threat forecasts for distribution to DoD and the broader Intelligence Community (IC).
  • Apply advanced analytical tools (e.g., M3, Palantir, TAC, ARCSIGHT, RSA Security Analytics, CCD, TIDE) to detect and assess anomalous activities.
  • Facilitate extensive liaison and information sharing with government components, DoD, the IC, and law enforcement to support CI activities.
  • Conduct foreign contact and travel debriefings, produce critical reports like Supply Chain Risk Assessments and Intelligence Information Reports (IIRs), and provide CI expertise for personnel security adjudications.
  • Provide technical CI expertise and support for vulnerability mitigation, Research and Technology Protection (RTP) initiatives, and Supply Chain Risk Management (SCRM) policies.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Possess a Bachelor's degree in National Intelligence Studies, Law Enforcement, History, Analysis/Research, Journalism, Political Science, Library Science, Engineering, Mathematics, or a related field.
  • 7+ years of counterintelligence (CI) experience.
  • Experience with foundational defensive CI, including conducting investigations, inquiries, collections, operations, analysis, briefings, debriefings, training, and awareness.
  • Be a credentialed graduate of an accredited federal or DoD CI training academy (e.g., FBI Academy).
  • Demonstrate experience delivering routine and specialized CI briefings to internal and external audiences across strategic, operational, and tactical levels.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Possess a Master's degree in National Intelligence Studies, Law Enforcement, History, Analysis/Research, Journalism, Political Science, Library Science, Engineering, Mathematics, or a related field.
  • Experience participating in and supporting IC-directed damage assessment task forces for unauthorized disclosures or loss of classified information.
  • Demonstrated expertise in integrating CI into organizational Supply Chain Risk Management policies and initiatives.

Clearance Requirements

  • Active TS/SCI with the ability to obtain/maintain a polygraph  

Physical Requirements

  • Must be able to remain in a stationary position 50% of the time.
  • Needs to occasionally move about inside the office to access file cabinets, office machinery, etc.
  • Constantly operates a computer and other office productivity machinery, such as a printer or copy machine.
  • Frequently communicates with co-workers, management, and customers, which may involve delivering presentations; must be able to exchange accurate information in these situations.

The projected compensation range for this position is $85,000.00-$141,600.00. There are differentiating factors that can impact a final salary/hourly rate, including, but not limited to, Contract Wage Determination, relevant work experience, skills and competencies that align to the specified role, geographic location (For Remote Opportunities), education and certifications as well as Federal Government Contract Labor categories.  In addition, MANTECH invests in its employees beyond just compensation.  MANTECH's benefits offerings include, dependent upon position, Health Insurance, Life Insurance, Paid Time Off, Holiday Pay, short-term and long-term Disability, Retirement and Savings, Learning and Development opportunities, wellness programs as well as other optional benefit elections.

MANTECH considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to disability or veteran status or any other status protected under any federal, state, or local law or regulation.
If you need a reasonable accommodation to apply for a position with MANTECH, please email us at careers@mantech.com and provide your name and contact information.

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