Political Scientists

Course Advisor; United States; On-site; USD 59,300 - 164,200; Full time

Job summary

Course Advisor is looking for a Political Scientist to study political systems, analyze public opinions, and contribute to data-driven reports. This role requires strong communication skills, critical thinking, and the ability to interpret complex data. A degree in Political Science or a related field is essential. The average salary ranges from $59,300 to $164,200 yearly, with job growth anticipated in states like North Carolina and Ohio. Proficiency in tools like Microsoft Excel and IBM SPSS is also needed.

Qualifications

• Must possess strong communication skills for effective information conveyance.
• Ability to analyze and interpret complex data related to political systems.
• Critical thinking skills to evaluate various approaches to problems.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on political systems and public opinion.
• Collect and analyze data for reports on political issues.
• Provide commentary on public policy and political events.

Skills

Speaking

Reading Comprehension

Critical Thinking

Active Listening

Writing

Social Perceptiveness

Education

Degree in Political Science or related field

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Word

IBM SPSS Statistics

SAS

R

StataCorp Stata

Job description

Occupation Description

Study the origin, development, and operation of political systems. May study topics, such as public opinion, political decision-making, and ideology. May analyze the structure and operation of governments, as well as various political entities. May conduct public opinion surveys, analyze election results, or analyze public documents.

What Do Political Scientists Do On a Daily Basis?

• Maintain current knowledge of government policy decisions.
• Identify issues for research and analysis.
• Provide media commentary or criticism related to public policy and political issues and events.
• Teach political science.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret data such as election results and public opinion surveys, reporting on findings, recommendations, and conclusions.
• Write drafts of legislative proposals, and prepare speeches, correspondence, and policy papers for governmental use.

What Skills Do You Need to Work as a Political Scientist?

When polled, Political Scientists say the following skills are most frequently used in their jobs:

Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.

Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.

Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

Writing: Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.

Social Perceptiveness: Being aware of others’ reactions and understanding why they react as they do.

Types of Political Scientist

• Deputy Director
• Program Analyst
• International Affairs Vice President

Are There Job Opportunities for Political Scientists?

There were about 7,300 jobs for Political Scientist in 2016 (in the United States). New jobs are being produced at a rate of 2.7% which is below the national average. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 200 new jobs for Political Scientist by 2026. Due to new job openings and attrition, there will be an average of 700 job openings in this field each year.

The states with the most job growth for Political Scientist are North Carolina, Ohio, and Washington. Watch out if you plan on working in Texas, Pennsylvania, or Maryland. These states have the worst job growth for this type of profession.

Political Scientist Average Salary

The average yearly salary of a Political Scientist ranges between $59,300 and $164,200.

Political Scientists who work in Virginia, Maryland, or New York, make the highest salaries.

What Tools & Technology do Political Scientists Use?

Although they’re not necessarily needed for all jobs, the following technologies are used by many Political Scientists:

• Microsoft Excel
• Microsoft Word
• Microsoft Office
• Microsoft PowerPoint
• Microsoft Outlook
• Microsoft Access
• Email software
• SAP
• Microsoft Visio
• Microsoft SharePoint
• SAS
• Microsoft Publisher
• IBM SPSS Statistics
• R
• StataCorp Stata
• WinBUGS
• Bare Bones Software BBEdit

How to Become a Political Scientist

What education is needed to be a Political Scientist?