ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Political Science Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPolitical Science JobsPolitical Science Jobs in California

Political Science information

See California salary details

$24.2K

$47.8K

$78K

How much do political science jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for political science in California is $47,757.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,000.00 and $51,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the best job for political science?

Political science graduates can pursue careers such as policy analysts, government affairs specialists, or legislative assistants, which often require strong research, communication, and analytical skills. These roles are typically found in government agencies, think tanks, non-profit organizations, or political consulting firms and may require familiarity with policy analysis tools and relevant certifications.

What is a Political Science job?

A Political Science job involves analyzing government systems, political behavior, and public policies. Careers in this field can include roles in government, law, education, journalism, and research. Professionals may work as policy analysts, political consultants, public relations specialists, or legislative assistants. They study political trends, advise policymakers, and help shape public policy decisions.

What are typical career paths and advancement opportunities for someone with a background in Political Science?

A background in Political Science opens doors to a wide range of career paths, including policy analysis, government administration, legislative assistance, public relations, and research roles in think tanks or NGOs. Many professionals start in entry-level positions such as research assistants or policy analysts and can advance to senior analyst, managerial, or advisory roles with experience and additional education. Working in this field often provides opportunities to specialize in areas like international relations, public policy, or political campaigning. Career growth may also include pursuing further academic qualifications, such as a master's or Ph.D., leading to teaching or high-level research positions. The diversity of paths lets you tailor your career based on personal interests and strengths.

What is the highest paying political science job?

The highest paying political science jobs are often in government leadership roles, such as senior policy advisors, political consultants, or lobbyists, with salaries exceeding $100,000 annually. Positions in law, such as attorneys specializing in government or public policy, can also offer high compensation, especially with experience and advanced degrees. These roles typically require strong analytical skills, networking, and knowledge of legislative processes.

What kind of job does a political science degree get you?

A political science degree can lead to careers such as policy analyst, government official, political consultant, or legislative assistant. These roles often require strong research, communication, and analytical skills, and may involve working in government agencies, non-profit organizations, or political campaigns.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Political Science position, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Political Science role, you need strong analytical skills, research proficiency, and a solid educational background such as a degree in political science or a related field. Familiarity with data analysis tools, statistical software (like SPSS or Stata), and report-writing platforms is often beneficial. Excellent communication, critical thinking, and the ability to work collaboratively are important soft skills for this profession. These abilities help professionals evaluate complex political systems, present findings clearly, and effectively contribute to research projects and policy discussions.

What can I do with a politics degree?

A political science degree prepares individuals for careers in government, public policy, law, journalism, and nonprofit organizations. It develops skills in research, analysis, communication, and understanding political systems, which are valuable in various roles such as policy analyst, legislative assistant, campaign manager, or public relations specialist.
What are the most commonly searched types of Political Science jobs in California? The most popular types of Political Science jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Political Science jobs in California? For Political Science jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Political Science jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Political Science jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Political Science jobs? Cities in California with the most Political Science job openings:
Political Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Political Science job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,757 per year, or $23 per hour.
Adjunct Political Science Instructor

Adjunct Political Science Instructor

Yuba Community College District

Marysville, CA • On-site

$47.07 - $78.42/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Posting Details
Position Information
Job Title
Adjunct Political Science Instructor
Location
Yuba College - Marysville, CA.
Job Description
BASIC FUNCTION:
• Develop and deliver instructional lectures for Political Science courses up to 10 hours/week
• Organize and teach all levels of Political Science classes
• Use appropriate teaching methods to facilitate student learning;
• Teach day, evening, and/or weekend teaching assignments, which may include distance learning (interactive television, online) and accelerated courses;
• Assess Student Learning Outcomes every semester;
• Participate in department, division, and college-wide initiatives and committees if desired
Essential Duties Summary
REQUIRED DUTIES:
Demonstrate sensitivity to and understanding of the diverse academic, socioeconomic, cultural, disability and ethnic backgrounds of community college students.
Required Qualifications
QUALIFICATIONS: The successful candidate, by the final filing date, must possess the minimum qualifications stated below:
• Master's in political science, government, or international relations OR
• Bachelor's in any of the above AND
• Master's in economics, history, public administration, social science, sociology, any ethnic studies, JD, or LL.B.
• OR the equivalent.
Desired/Preferred Qualifications
EXPERIENCE:
Preference may be given to candidates with life or teaching which would demonstrate the clear ability to teach Political Science to community college students.
Physical Demands
Range/Step
Step 1 - Step 7 (Based on degree and teaching experience)
Salary Range
$47.07 - $78.42/Lecture Rate Per Hour
Benefits Information
EEO Statement
As an equal opportunity employer with a diverse staff and student population, the Yuba Community College District is committed to creating an inclusive and effective learning and working environment for all.
Posting Detail Information
Internal vs. External
External
Posting Number
AS120P
Open Date
Close Date
Review Start Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
Special Instructions to Applicants
Yuba Community College District is accepting qualified applicants for possible temporary part-time teaching assignments. These positions are filled based on the needs of the department and are on-going recruitments.
A complete application includes the following: Online Academic Application, resume, transcripts, EEO Statement, up to (3) current letters of recommendation and a cover letter/letter of interest.
EQUIVALENCY: If you do not meet the specific degree requirements for an instructor in the discipline required, you may request equivalency before the final filing date. There are three (3) forms that you will need to download from the HR web site under FORMS, it is titled: Equivalency Determination Application, Statement, and Procedure - the information requested is required of all candidates not holding the stated minimum qualifications who are seeking consideration on the basis of equivalency

Apply