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Political Science Instructor Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

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Political Science Instructor information

See Florida salary details

$58.4K

$74.5K

$88.9K

How much do political science instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for political science instructor in Florida is $74,501.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,500.00 and $82,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Political Science Instructor Do?

As a political science instructor, your job is to teach students about topics like political systems, political decision-making, and political ideology. This position is almost always limited to college and university campuses. Aside from each course you teach in person, you may also need to prepare and instruct an online class. Your school may ask you to perform research and decide when to incorporate recent events into the curriculum. In some cases, you may be asked to provide commentary on recent events. This could take place on television, in a local newspaper, over a podcast, or through any other news outlet. Teaching a night class is also a possibility with this position.

How do Political Science Instructors typically balance teaching responsibilities with research and curriculum development?

Political Science Instructors often split their time between classroom teaching, grading, and developing course materials, while also staying updated on current events and political theories to enrich their curriculum. Many instructors are also involved in ongoing research or publishing, which can be both a challenge and a growth opportunity. Collaboration with colleagues for interdisciplinary projects or curriculum planning is common, and instructors may participate in faculty meetings or student advising. Balancing these responsibilities requires strong time management skills and a passion for mentoring students and advancing the field.

What is the difference between Political Science Instructor vs Political Science Professor?

AspectPolitical Science InstructorPolitical Science Professor
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree or master's in political science or related field; teaching certification often preferredDoctoral degree (Ph.D.) in political science or related field; extensive research experience
Work EnvironmentCommunity colleges, technical schools, or adult education programsUniversities and research institutions
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions offering undergraduate coursesHigher education institutions with research and teaching roles
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding teaching roles at different education levelsAcademic career progression and qualifications

In summary, a Political Science Instructor typically holds a bachelor's or master's degree and teaches at community colleges or technical schools, focusing on undergraduate education. A Political Science Professor usually has a Ph.D. and works at universities, engaging in both teaching and research. The main difference lies in educational requirements, work environment, and career level.

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

To thrive as a Political Science Instructor, you need a strong academic background in political science, often requiring at least a master's degree or Ph.D. in the field. Familiarity with learning management systems (LMS), digital research databases, and curriculum development tools is typically expected. Outstanding communication, critical thinking, and the ability to engage and inspire students are crucial soft skills. These competencies ensure effective teaching, foster student understanding, and contribute to a stimulating academic environment.

What does a Political Science Instructor do?

A Political Science Instructor teaches students about government systems, political theories, international relations, and public policies. They design and deliver lectures, lead classroom discussions, and create assignments to help students understand complex political concepts. Instructors also assess student progress, provide feedback, and may conduct research or participate in academic conferences. Their goal is to foster critical thinking and a deeper understanding of political processes among their students.
What are the most commonly searched types of Political Science Instructor jobs in Florida? The most popular types of Political Science Instructor jobs in Florida are:
What cities in Florida are hiring for Political Science Instructor jobs? Cities in Florida with the most Political Science Instructor job openings:
Infographic showing various Political Science Instructor job openings in Florida as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,501 per year, or $35.8 per hour.

Visiting Instructor of Political Science

Unf

Jacksonville, FL

$50K/yr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Department

Political Science & Public Administration, Chair

Compensation

$50,000.00 to Negotiable Annual

General Description/Primary Purpose:

The Department of Political Science and Public Administration is seeking a 9-month, non-tenure earning, Visiting Instructor of Political Science. Position responsibilities include a 4/4 teaching load in the undergraduate political science major. The department seeks candidates with teaching experience in one or more of the following areas: American government and politics; public law; international relations; and research methods.

Supervisor: This position will report to the Department Chair.

Working Hours: Varies

Supervision Exercised: This is not a supervisory role.

Required Licensure: N/A

Anticipated Start Date: The position is expected to begin on August 3, 2026.

Required Qualifications:

Experienced candidate with a master's degree in the discipline or closely related field

Preferred Qualifications / Skills:

  • Earned a Ph.D. in Political Science, Government, or a related discipline by August 3, 2026

  • Experience teaching large, in-person sections of introductory courses in American government and/or international relations

  • Experience teaching upper division courses in American politics, public law, and/or research methods

  • Experience supervising student internships and/or field experience

Additional Application Materials Required:

Applicants should be prepared to provide the following required documents and information:

  • Cover letter

  • Current curriculum vitae

Name, phone number, and email address of three professional references will be requested during the application review stage.

The selected candidate will be required to submit final official transcripts (and, as applicable, U.S. degree equivalency evaluations) documenting the conferral of their qualifying academic credentials by the date of hire.

Additional Requirements:

Applicants may be required to upload additional documents based on their responses to the Foreign Influence Review questions.

  • Passport (all pages including blank pages) and

  • Form DS-160 (if ever submitted. If not, upload an explanation)

Application Review Date: Initial review of applications will begin in June 2026.

Job Posting Close Date: Open until filled

How to Apply: Applicants must submit an online application that includes all required documents and reference information. If you have any questions about this position, please contact Dr. Nicholas Seabrook at n.seabrook@unf.edu.

About the Department: The Department of Political Science and Public Administration offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in Political Science (BA), Public Administration (MPA), and International Affairs (MAIA), as well as minors in Political Science, Public Administration, Public Service Leadership, and Political Campaigns. The department includes the Public Opinion Research Laboratory (PORL), a highly ranked full-service survey research facility, as well as the Public Service Leadership Program (PSLP), and the Pre-Law Program. For more information about the Department of Political Science and Public Administration visit: https://www.unf.edu/coas/pspa/.

Statement(s) of Understanding

This position requires a background check. In conjunction with the University's policy, this position may also require a credit check.

The holder of this position is designated as a "Responsible Employee" pursuant to their role under Title IX. Therefore, the incumbent must promptly report allegations of sexual misconduct, sexual violence, and child sexual abuse by or against any student, employee, contractor, or visitor to the University's Title IX Administrator or any divisional Title IX Coordinator

Equal Opportunity

The University of North Florida (UNF) is committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all who interact in our community. In building this environment, we strive to attract students, faculty and staff from a variety of cultures, backgrounds and life experiences. The University of North Florida does not commit or permit discrimination or harassment on the basis of genetic information, race, color, religion, age, sex, disability, marital status, national origin, or veteran status in any educational, employment, social, recreational program or activity that it offers. In addition, UNF will not commit or permit retaliation against an individual who reports discrimination or harassment or an individual who cooperates in an investigation of an alleged violation of university regulation.

Carnegie

UNF is a Carnegie Community Engaged Institution. This designation celebrates the University's collaboration with community partners from the local to the global level. It reflects UNF's mission to contribute to the public good and prepare educated, engaged citizens.