Political Research Assistant Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of dynamic global politics, the focus on political research assistants has never been more profound.

As global trends shift and societal norms evolve, there’s a rising demand for insightful minds who can delve, analyze, and safeguard our political landscape.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a political research assistant?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to comprehend the core of this role,
• A hiring manager mapping out the perfect candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the intricacies of political research,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable political research assistant job description template, designed for seamless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Political Research Assistant Duties and Responsibilities

Political Research Assistants play a pivotal role in understanding and analyzing the political landscape.

They assist political analysts, policymakers, and politicians in making informed decisions based on data and research.

Their key duties and responsibilities include:

• Conducting extensive research on political theories, public policies, and government regulations.
• Collecting data from a variety of sources, such as public opinion polls, demographic data, and historical documents.
• Analyzing data using qualitative and quantitative methods to find trends and patterns.
• Preparing detailed reports, presentations, and briefs summarizing research findings.
• Keeping up-to-date with current events, political developments, and legislation changes.
• Assisting in the preparation and drafting of speeches, articles, and other materials for politicians or policymakers.
• Monitoring media coverage of political events and public figures.
• Attending political events, meetings, and conferences to gather first-hand data.
• Fact-checking information and sources for accuracy.
• Providing administrative support to senior staff, such as scheduling meetings and organizing files.

 

Political Research Assistant Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a detail-oriented and committed Political Research Assistant to support our team with thorough research on political issues, legislative proposals, and public opinion.

Responsibilities include collecting data, analyzing policies, and providing accurate and timely information for strategy development.

The ideal candidate should have strong analytical skills, exceptional writing ability, and a deep understanding of the political landscape.

The role of the Political Research Assistant is to conduct comprehensive research that influences policy making decisions and fosters political strategies.

 

Responsibilities

• Conduct extensive research on political subjects, including public opinion, electoral data and legislative proposals.
• Assist in the preparation of policy briefings, reports, and presentations.
• Organize and maintain databases of research materials.
• Collaborate with team to develop strategic policy recommendations.
• Analyze and interpret polling and survey data.
• Stay up-to-date with political developments and predict potential impacts.
• Communicate research findings in clear and actionable ways.
• Attend political meetings, conferences and events, when necessary.

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a research assistant or similar role.
• Strong understanding of political systems and research methodologies.
• Proficiency in statistical software and databases.
• Excellent analytical and critical thinking skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
• Bachelor’s degree in political science, public policy or a related field.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Continuing education opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Political Research Assistant
• Work Environment: Office setting with occasional travel for research and political events.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Research Director or Policy Analyst.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $65,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Political Research Assistant Do?

A Political Research Assistant provides essential support to politicians, political campaigns, and organizations related to policy making by conducting extensive research on various political topics.

They delve into historical and current data, trends, legal documents, news articles, and public opinion polls to gain a comprehensive understanding of the political landscape.

They may also analyze voting patterns, public policies, and the effectiveness of political campaigns.

Their job often involves compiling, summarizing, and presenting their findings in easily digestible reports, which can be used by politicians to make informed decisions, craft speeches, shape campaign strategies, or develop public policies.

Political Research Assistants are also responsible for staying updated on current events, political trends, and legislative developments.

They may be required to attend political meetings or events, monitor political news and developments, and track legislative changes.

In addition, they may assist in drafting speeches, writing press releases, and responding to public inquiries, depending on their specific role and the needs of their employer.

Their work is crucial to ensure that political decisions and campaigns are based on accurate and up-to-date information.

 

Political Research Assistant Qualifications and Skills

A Political Research Assistant is required to have a set of qualifications and skills that allow them to contribute effectively to their role, including:

• Strong analytical skills to interpret complex political documents, decipher legislation, and understand policy issues.
• Excellent research skills for gathering, organizing, and analyzing information from diverse sources such as speeches, policy papers, and government reports.
• Advanced writing and communication skills to prepare clear, concise reports that summarize research findings and to effectively communicate these findings to colleagues and superiors.
• Attention to detail in order to ensure accuracy and comprehensiveness in research tasks.
• Proficiency in data analysis software and platforms for conducting quantitative research and analyzing political trends.
• Time management skills to prioritize and juggle multiple tasks, meeting strict deadlines.
• Knowledge of political systems and processes, and a keen interest in current events and politics.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team, displaying strong interpersonal skills.

 

Political Research Assistant Experience Requirements

Entry-level candidates for a Political Research Assistant role should have a degree in Political Science, International Relations, Sociology, or a related field.

Some practical experience in the form of internships or voluntary work in political campaigns, non-profit organizations, or government offices would be advantageous.

Candidates with 1-2 years of experience are often those who have worked in entry-level roles such as a Research Intern or Assistant in political consulting firms, think-tanks, or governmental bodies.

Their experience usually involves assisting in the development of political strategies, analyzing public policy, and understanding voter behavior.

Those with 3-5 years of experience are expected to have developed their analytical skills and may have been involved in more complex tasks such as drafting policy briefs, conducting in-depth political research, and presenting findings to stakeholders.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience may have some managerial experience, leading a team of researchers or heading a project.

They may also have experience in using advanced statistical tools and software for research.

Their experience may make them suitable for senior roles or positions in strategic planning and policy development.

 

Political Research Assistant Education and Training Requirements

Political Research Assistants typically require a bachelor’s degree in political science, international relations, economics, or a related field.

They need to have a solid understanding of political systems, public policies, and current affairs.

Strong research skills, quantitative and qualitative analysis abilities, and excellent written and verbal communication skills are also crucial.

In addition to the undergraduate degree, some positions may require candidates to have a master’s degree or higher in political science, public administration or a related field.

Internships or previous experience in research, political campaigns, public policy, or government can be advantageous.

While not always necessary, certifications in research methodologies, data analysis, or similar subjects can strengthen a candidate’s profile and demonstrate their commitment to their professional development.

Continuous knowledge update on current political trends, policy changes and international affairs is also a vital part of the role.

 

Political Research Assistant Salary Expectations

A Political Research Assistant earns an average salary of $39,079 (USD) per year.

This salary can vary depending on factors such as the level of experience, educational background, and geographical location where the job is based.

The type of organization or entity employing the research assistant can also significantly influence the salary.

 

Political Research Assistant Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Political Research Assistant need?

A Political Research Assistant should have excellent research and analytical skills to find and interpret data.

They need strong writing skills to draft reports and summaries of their findings.

Attention to detail is crucial for accuracy in their work.

They should also have good understanding of politics, policies, and government structures.

Knowledge of statistical analysis software and data collection methods could also be beneficial.

 

Do Political Research Assistants need a degree?

Yes, a Political Research Assistant typically needs at least a bachelor’s degree in political science, international relations, public policy or a related field.

Some positions may require a master’s degree or higher, particularly for more complex research roles.

Practical experience in research, like internships or academic projects, can also be beneficial.

 

What should you look for in a Political Research Assistant resume?

Look for a strong educational background in a relevant field like political science.

Candidates should have experience in conducting research, analyzing data, and writing reports.

Familiarity with statistical software and other research tools is a plus.

Also, look for any internships or work experience they might have in government or political organizations.

 

What qualities make a good Political Research Assistant?

A good Political Research Assistant has a genuine interest in politics and current events.

They should be detail-oriented, as accuracy is crucial in research.

They must have strong analytical skills to interpret complex data and make insightful conclusions.

Excellent communication skills are also important to present findings clearly and effectively.

 

What are the daily duties of a Political Research Assistant?

A Political Research Assistant typically spends their day conducting research on political issues, policies, and trends.

They may gather data from a variety of sources, analyze the information, and write reports summarizing their findings.

They might also attend political events or meetings, assist with the preparation of presentations, and provide support to senior researchers or politicians.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve demystified the reality of being a political research assistant.

Surprised?

It’s not just about crunching numbers or tracking polls.

It’s about shaping the political landscape, one research report at a time.

With our comprehensive political research assistant job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to jump-start your career.

But why limit yourself?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next station for creating razor-sharp job listings or fine-tuning your resume for a perfect match.

Remember:

Every piece of research is a vital thread in the tapestry of politics.

Let’s weave that future. Together.