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Political Scientist Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Political Scientist information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$7

$31

$67

How much do political scientist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for political scientist in Springfield, IL is $31.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.02 and $42.23 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 job categories do people searching Political Scientist jobs in Springfield, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Political Scientist jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Political Scientist jobs? Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Political Scientist job openings:
Political Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Political Scientist job openings in Springfield, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $64,693 per year, or $31.1 per hour.

INTELLIGENCE AND INFORMATION SECURITY Professional

U.S. Navy

Springfield, IL • On-site

Part-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago

United States Navy rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 379 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

43rd of 50 rated military and defense

Job description

ABOUT

These careers bring the expertise in all facets of Information Operations, making sure our fleet is capitalizing on the information vulnerabilities of our adversaries. Candidates seeking careers in this field should preferably have a degree that focuses on areas of study such as international relations, political science, government, engineering, physical science, natural science, computer science or other academic fields related to intelligence.

RESPONSIBILITIES

As an Intelligence Officer, you will take on a wide variety of assignments, each one essential in its related mission or objective. This role may include:

  • Leading the planning, development, testing and deployment of information systems crucial to the intelligence process
  • Monitoring and analyzing maritime activities that pose a threat to national security, such as drug smuggling, illegal immigration, arms transfers, environmental mishaps and violations of UN sanctions
  • Delivering real-time operational intelligence assessment to high-level decision makers
  • Planning intelligence operations including threat analysis for pre-strike missions and direct action missions
  • Managing intelligence systems
  • Enabling the collection of human intelligence
  • Overseeing the work of Intelligence Specialists – Enlisted Sailors (no degree required) who help convert information into intelligence

PAY AND BENEFITS

From the day you start, you’ll receive:

  • Competitive salary
  • Free health insurance
  • Free housing
  • A retirement plan
  • 30 days paid vacation per year

EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES

Beyond professional credentials and certifications, the Navy can help ease your financial burdens and advance your career with generous financial assistance and continuing education programs.

Opportunities for further education within this platform include:

  • Post-9/11 GI Bill
  • Navy Tuition Assistance Program
  • Human Resources Center of Excellence (HRCOE) at Naval Postgraduate School (NPS)
  • Navy College Program
  • VOLED Assistance Center
  • VOLED Region Advisors
  • Navy War College (NWC)
  • USAF Air University Air Command and Staff College

QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

  • Bachelor’s degree
  • U.S. citizen or equivalent
  • Candidates seeking an Information Professional Officer position should preferably have a degree that focuses on areas of study such as: international relations, political science, government, engineering, physical science, natural science, computer science or other academic fields related to intelligence.

General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you’re currently serving, whether you’ve served before or whether you’ve never served before.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Depending on interests, background and performance, Intelligence Officers have opportunities to serve worldwide aboard ships, on bases and installations or even in assignments at Joint Intelligence Centers.

PART-TIME OPPORTUNITIES

There are part-time roles as an Intelligence Officer in the Navy. Serving part-time as a Reserve Sailor, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Intelligence Officers in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes.

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Industry

National security, national security and international affairs, public safety statistics centers and offices, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

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