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Political Science Instructor Jobs in Seattle, WA

Political Science Instructor information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$80.9K

$103.1K

$123K

How much do political science instructor jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for political science instructor in Seattle, WA is $103,074.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,000.00 and $114,200.00 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.

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.

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.

Infographic showing various Political Science Instructor job openings in Seattle, WA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 62% Full Time, 34% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 38% Physical, 10% Hybrid, and 52% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,074 per year, or $49.6 per hour.
Political Science Adjunct Instructor / Substitute Pool

Political Science Adjunct Instructor / Substitute Pool

Renton Technical College

Renton, WA โ€ข On-site

$1.64K/wk

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted yesterday


Job description

Salary: See Position Description
Location : 3000 NE 4th Street Renton, WA
Job Type: Part-time Faculty
Job Number: 22-R0021PT
Department: Part-time Faculty
Opening Date: 05/18/2022
Position
We are seeking applications, on an ongoing basis, for political science adjunct instructors and substitutes at Renton Technical College (RTC). The Dean of General Education reviews applications as needed to fill openings for in-person and online instructors. Please see Terms of Employment for further compensation details. This position will remain open until filled.
RTC offers just two classes in this area: POLS 150 Contemporary World Issues and POLS&202 American Government. We use open educational resource (OER) materials in both classes, which enroll a diverse group of students. We are particularly interested in applicants who are available for in-person instruction.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis as needs arise within each department. Deans will evaluate applications periodically and contact candidates as adjunct positions become available. Note that applications may be reviewed at any time while this posting remains active.
Renton Technical College, located southeast of Seattle, has provided quality education in a variety of occupations for over 80 years. Our professional-technical certificate and degree programs offer entry and mid-level training in the areas of allied health, trades and industry, culinary, business, technology and automotive. Our outstanding college & career pathways program with classes in adult basic education, English as a second language, and GED preparation is available to those who need additional preparation prior to entering a training program and for those who simply wish to improve their math and English skills. Career Education and apprenticeships degree's round out our offerings. As an Achieving the Dream and an Aspen Institute top 10 finalist in Community College Excellence, RTC is also proud to be a Military Friendly School, serving those who chose to serve.
Renton Technical College is committed to increasing its cultural diversity with an emphasis on equity and inclusion among its faculty and staff. The students that we serve come from a variety of backgrounds and are over 60% of color. We strongly encourage members of historically marginalized groups, veterans, and bi- or multi-lingual individuals to apply for this position to help meet the needs of our diverse students and service district.
Key Responsibilities / Essential Functions Include
  • Create an educational environment that affirms commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.
  • Effectively teach the adopted curricula for political science classes.
  • Design inclusive instructional strategies, including classroom, small group and individualized instruction, to reach all students, and select and evaluate the materials needed to implement these strategies.
  • Work effectively with students from academically, culturally and economically diverse backgrounds.
  • Evaluate student progress towards attaining the learning outcomes, including thoughtfully designed individual assignments, projects, quizzes, and standardized tests.
  • Maintain and submit student records, documentation, and program reports, including annual assessment reports on assigned general education student learning outcomes.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Create an educational environment that affirms commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.
  • Effectively teach the adopted curricula for political science classes.
  • Design inclusive instructional strategies, including classroom, small group and individualized instruction, to reach all students, and select and evaluate the materials needed to implement these strategies.
  • Work effectively with students from academically, culturally and economically diverse backgrounds.
  • Evaluate student progress towards attaining the learning outcomes, including thoughtfully designed individual assignments, projects, quizzes, and standardized tests.
  • Maintain and submit student records, documentation, and program reports, including annual assessment reports on assigned general education student learning outcomes.

Terms of Employment
In the interest of providing a healthy, safe and secure educational and work environment, and in order to meet the requirements of federal legislation, it is the policy of Renton Technical College to maintain an alcohol and drug-free workplace for our employees and students.
This is an adjunct faculty position contracted on a quarterly basis. Lecture (theory) credits are compensated at $1,090 per credit, which includes scheduled class time and final exam days. All guided practice instructional credits for adjunct will be paid with an additional pay factor of 1.33. Future advancement in base salary, up to the current maximum of $1,640 per credit, is based upon a combination of years of service accrued at our college and professional development activity.
Degree Stipend:Master's or Doctorate degree stipends are paid on a prorated per credit rate.
The person hired is required to provide authorization for employment in the United States. All offers of employment are contingent to background checks, including employment and required degree/credential verification. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability and competence to perform successfully in the position. Finalists are required to complete the Sexual Misconduct Disclosure form as required under RCW 288.112.080. Post offer, pre-employment criminal background checks are also required.
For questions regarding this position contact recruiting@rtc.edu
EEO STATEMENT: Renton Technical College provides equal opportunity in education and employment and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color national origin, age, perceived or actual physical or mental disability, pregnancy, genetic information, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, creed, religion, honorably discharged veterans or military status, or use of a trained guide dog or service animal, as required by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972, Sections 504 and 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act and ADA Amendment Act, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, the Violence Against Women Re-authorization Act and Washington State Law Against Discrimination, Chapter 49.60 RCW and their implementing regulations. The following college official has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies: Title IX / EEO Coordinator, Vice President of Human Resources 3000 NE 4th Street Renton, WA 98056 (425)235-7873, titleix@rtc.edu.
Jeanne Clery statement: Notice of Availability of Annual Security and Fire Safety Report: In compliance with Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics Act of 1998, and as a part of the College's commitment to safety and security on campus, Renton Technical College reports the mandate information about current campus policies concerning safety and security issues, the required statistics, and other related information for the past three (3) calendar years. Renton Technical College's Annual Safety and Fire Report is available online at: . For information on how to access the RTC Daily Crime Log follow this link:
We acknowledge that RTC sits uninvited on the ancestral land of the Puget Salish people, including the Duwamish, Suquamish, Snoqualmie, Tulalip, and Muckleshoot Nations. We are grateful to the original inhabitants of this land, upon which we gather and dialogue. We also acknowledge our increasingly virtual world, in which RTC's work is done across multiple indigenous lands, in some cases, away from Puget Salish territories. We thank the original caretakers of our local lands and waters, who are still here. Beyond acknowledgment, we each have an obligation to learn about and support our local tribes. Find out how on our resources page, which includes scholarships for Indigenous students.
More than Just a Paycheck!
Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation. We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career and that your priority is making sure that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package.
Health Benefits:
Adjunct faculty may become eligible for benefits if they work two (2) consecutive quarters at 50% or more of full time academic load in order to qualify for benefits (based on instructional hours only - benefits would begin on the first day of the working month after working 50% or more for two consecutive quarters).
Newly-hired adjunct faculty are eligible for PEBB insurance benefits when they have taught 50 percent or more of a full-time workload* for two consecutive quarters at one or more public higher education institutions, going on benefits the start of the second quarter at 50% or more. Medical, dental, life and long term disability insurance benefits are provided as currently administered under the
Adjunct faculty who initially meet the State Board Retirement Plan Eligibility criteria after June 30, 2011 are given the option to participate in the State Board Plan (TIA) or to participate in TRS 3, and have 30 days to make a choice. The eligibility threshold for participation in the State Board Retirement Plan (TIA) is 50 percent of a full-time workload* at one or more college districts or the State Board for two consecutive quarters. There may be other options available under limited circumstances.
*Half time is defined as one-half of the full-time academic workload as determined by each institution, except that half time for community and technical colleges faculty employees is governed by RCW 28B.50.489.
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Did you complete all of the work history and education fields within the on-line application? Did you upload your cover letter, resume / CV and unofficial transcript? If you did not complete these fields or attach these required documents, your application will not be considered for further screening.
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