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Political Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rutgers University

$2K/wk

Position Information Recruitment/Posting Title Lecturers, Political Science Department Political Science Salary Details A minimum of $2,777 per credit. Offer Information The final salary offer may be ...

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How much do political scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for political scientist in the United States is $34.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $47.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a political scientist do?

A political scientist studies the origin, development, and operation of political systems and public policies. They analyze governments, political ideas, and trends, often conducting research to evaluate the effects of laws and policies. Their work involves collecting and interpreting data, forecasting political trends, and sometimes advising organizations or policymakers. Political scientists may also teach at universities, publish scholarly articles, or work for think tanks and research institutes.

What is the difference between Political Scientist vs Policy Analyst?

AspectPolitical ScientistPolicy Analyst
Required CredentialsMaster's or Ph.D. in Political Science or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Political Science, Public Policy, or related areas
Work EnvironmentAcademia, research institutions, government agenciesGovernment agencies, think tanks, consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research organizations, governmentPolicy development, advocacy groups, government
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, career paths, qualificationsComparing job functions, responsibilities, and skills

Political Scientists analyze political systems, theories, and behaviors, often working in academia or research. Policy Analysts focus on evaluating and developing policies, typically working in government or think tanks. While both roles require knowledge of political systems, Political Scientists tend to focus on research and theory, whereas Policy Analysts are more involved in practical policy development and analysis.

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

To thrive as a Political Scientist, you need strong analytical skills, research proficiency, and typically a master's or doctoral degree in political science or a related field. Familiarity with statistical analysis software (like SPSS or STATA), data visualization tools, and experience with qualitative and quantitative research methods are commonly required. Excellent written and verbal communication, critical thinking, and the ability to synthesize complex information are important soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for producing rigorous research, informing public policy, and effectively conveying findings to diverse audiences.

How do political scientists typically collaborate with government agencies or non-profit organizations in their daily work?

Political scientists often work closely with government agencies and non-profit organizations by conducting research, analyzing policy impacts, and providing recommendations based on their findings. These collaborations may involve designing surveys, evaluating program effectiveness, or advising on legislative initiatives. Working in interdisciplinary teams is common, and political scientists frequently present their insights to stakeholders to inform decision-making. This collaborative environment helps ensure that their research addresses real-world policy challenges and contributes to meaningful societal outcomes.

What Is a Political Scientist?

Political scientists research and analyze government and public policies. As a political scientist, your job duties include conducting polls and surveys, analyzing public opinion data, monitoring current events and political trends, and making predictions based on political theories, research, and analysis. This information helps you evaluate the effects of laws and public policies on citizens, businesses, and the government. You gather data from multiple sources and compare current trends with past political events and government systems. Utilizing your knowledge, you draw conclusions using both qualitative and quantitative research methods. Strong analytical skills and excellent reading comprehension and writing abilities are vital for a career in political science.

More about Political Scientist jobs
What cities are hiring for Political Scientist jobs? Cities with the most Political Scientist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Political Scientist jobs? The most popular types of Political Scientist jobs are:
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What job categories do people searching Political Scientist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Political Scientist jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Political Scientist jobs? For Political Scientist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Political Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Political Scientist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, and 54% Part Time. Highlights an 75% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,176 per year, or $34.7 per hour.

Political Scientist (Assistant or Associate Professor)

The University of Texas at Austin

Austin, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

University Of Texas at Austin rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 62 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

131st of 535 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Description
The Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs at the University of Texas at Austin ("LBJ School") invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant or Associate Professor of Political Science -with a focus on American Political Institutions (and more specifically on the Executive Branch) to begin in Fall of academic year 2026-27 (with an August 2026 start date). One of the nation's top ten programs in public affairs, the LBJ School is seeking to strengthen its faculty in the politics of policy adoption and implementation. The LBJ School comprises more than 50 faculty members and approximately 500 undergraduates and 300 graduate students. It offers multi-disciplinary curricula leading to the degrees of Bachelor of Arts in Public Affairs, Master of Public Affairs, Master of Global Policy Studies, Master of National Security and Ph.D. in Public Policy.
The appointee will conduct research focused on Executive Branch authority, organization and processes as they influence policy adoption, bureaucratic politics/organization, inter-branch policy development dynamics, or policy implementation. They will also teach political science-focused courses related to both policy development and methods as well as courses on public policy topics of their interest. The appointee's research will have direct relevance to public policy. The appointee will conduct and publish scholarly research and seek grant opportunities in support of their research and/or teaching activities. The appointee will participate in faculty governance in the LBJ School.
Qualifications
A Ph.D. in Political Science or a related field with an emphasis in American Politics is required. ABD candidates will be considered if the doctoral degree will be complete by the time of employment. Experience in college teaching and evidence of scholarship or scholarly potential is preferred.
Application Instructions
Interested candidates can submit their cover letter, CV, statement of teaching, three years of teaching evaluations (or fewer if unavailable), three letters of reference, and one article-length writing sample via Interfolio. Questions about the position can be directed to Herschel Thomas at herschel.thomas@austin.utexas.edu. Questions about the application can be directed to Shannon LaFevers at slafevers@austin.utexas.edu.
The search committee will begin considering applications September 15th. The position will remain open until filled.

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