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Political Theory Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sju

Adjunct, Political Science

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

Presently, we have a specific need for faculty to teach within the field of American Politics, International Relations/Global Politics, Comparative Politics, and Political Theory. Part-time adjunct ...

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How much do political theory jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for political theory in the United States is $22.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $25.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a political theory?

A Political Theory job typically involves researching, teaching, and writing about fundamental questions regarding politics, justice, power, and ethics. Professionals in this field may work in academia, think tanks, government, or journalism, analyzing philosophical and theoretical frameworks that shape political systems. These roles often require expertise in political philosophy, critical theory, and intellectual history to explore how ideas influence political behavior and governance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in political theory?

To thrive in political theory, you need advanced analytical skills, strong research abilities, and an academic background typically featuring a Ph.D. or master's in political science or a related field. Familiarity with qualitative and quantitative research methods, citation management software, and academic databases is essential. Excellent written communication, critical thinking, and the ability to present complex ideas clearly are standout soft skills for this profession. These competencies enable the creation and dissemination of original research that shapes scholarly debate and influences policy discussions.

What are some typical career advancement opportunities for professionals specializing in political theory?

Professionals in political theory often begin their careers in academia as lecturers or research fellows, with opportunities to advance to tenured professorship, departmental leadership, or administrative roles within universities. Some may transition into think tanks, policy research organizations, or editorial positions in academic publishing. Gaining recognition through published research, conference presentations, and collaborative projects can open doors to higher-level opportunities and influence in the field. Additionally, those with strong interdisciplinary skills may branch into consulting, governmental advisory roles, or international organizations where theoretical expertise is highly valued.

What jobs can you get with a political theory degree?

A political theory degree prepares individuals for careers such as policy analyst, government affairs specialist, political consultant, legislative assistant, or nonprofit manager. These roles often require strong research, communication, and critical thinking skills, and may involve working in government agencies, advocacy groups, or think tanks.
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Political Theory jobs near you
Infographic showing various Political Theory job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,475 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

TENURED PROFESSOR IN POLITICAL THEORY

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA • On-site

$170K - $430K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Harvard University rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

82nd of 621 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Position
Details
Title
TENURED PROFESSOR IN POLITICAL THEORY
School
Faculty of Arts and Sciences
Department/Area
Government Department
Position Description
The Department of Government seeks to appoint a tenured professor in Political Theory. The appointment is expected to begin on July 1, 2027. The professor will teach and advise at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
Basic Qualifications
Candidates are required to have a doctorate.
Additional Qualifications
We will consider candidates who are top-tier scholars, teachers, and engaged members of their academic institutions, including research institutes, and whose scholarship and teaching significantly expands the traditional academic discourse on political theory. Demonstrated strong commitment to teaching, advising, and research is essential. Candidates should also have demonstrated intellectual leadership and impact on the field and potential for significant contributions to the department, University, and wider scholarly and intellectual community.
Special Instructions
Please submit the following materials through the ARIeS portal (https://academicpositions.harvard.edu). Candidates are encouraged to apply by August 10, 2026. Applications will be reviewed until the position is filled.
  1. Curriculum Vitae
  2. Authorization form

• Click the document link
• Download the PDF document
• Complete and sign the document.
• Scan the completed, signed document and upload it with your other application materials
Harvard University is committed to fostering a campus culture where everyone can thrive and experience a sense of inclusion and belonging. Community members are encouraged to model our values of integrity, responsible mentorship, equity, and excellence no matter where they are.
To support this commitment to our values of inclusion and excellence, the external finalist for this positionwill be required to complete a conduct questionnaire- specifically regarding findings of violation, on-going formal complaint investigations, or formal complaint investigations that did not conclude due to the external finalist's departure concerning:
harassment or discrimination, retaliation, sexual misconduct, bullying or intimidating/abusive behavior, unprofessional relationship, or misconduct related to scholarship, research, teaching, service, or clinical/patient care.
Harvard will also make conduct inquiriesto current and former employers of the external finalist regarding such misconduct. To facilitate these inquiries, Harvard requires all external applicants for this position to complete, sign, and upload the form entitled "Authorization to release information for external applicants"as part of their application. If an external applicant does not include the signed authorization with the application materials, the application will be considered incomplete, and, as with any incomplete application, will not receive further consideration.
Contact Information
Danielle Allen, Search Committee, Department of Government
Contact Email
danielleallen@fas.harvard.edu
Salary Range
$170,000 - $430,000
Pay offered to the selected candidate is dependent on factors such as experience, training or qualifications, field of scholarship, and accomplishments in the field.
Minimum Number of References Required
Maximum Number of References Allowed
Keywords
faculty, tenure, professor, associate professor, senior
Boston, Cambridge, Massachusetts, MA, Northeast, New England
[Fields: political theory]

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