Political Scientist Job Description – What Are Their Duties
It is no doubt that many people in the world try to make sense of what the political scene is about, the implications of the decisions of the political class on citizens and the whole election process.
There are people referred to as political scientists who devote their time to conducting extensive research on political ideas using research and methodologies obtained from their training either in school or during internships. Sometimes the reports of a political analyst on a particular candidate before the election have a way of influencing the people’s choice hence the reason why anybody in this position should be highly trained and an expert.
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Job Profile For Political Scientists
Political scientists usually study the origin, development, and operation of political systems. Their research focus is usually on political ideas, analysis of governments, policies, political trends, and related issues.
They devote time to examine various hypothesis and analyse data obtained in during an experiment before giving a well-informed opinion on various happenings in their locality. research can be conducted in one of the following areas;
- national politics
- comparative politics
- international relations
- political theory.
The importance of political scientists is highly emphasized by their presence in government and private organizations because they give information and analysis that can be useful in planning, developing and implementation of policies.
The work schedule is typically full time with normal working hours except on days when extra hours are required to finish reports within a stipulated deadline.
A lot of roles require that you have a postgraduate education either in political science, public administration or a related field which is relevant to the role you are applying to. Having great interpersonal, communication, analytical and critical thinking skills also help with working effectively in your job role.
Job Description For Political Scientists
As a Political Scientist, your daily activities would involve;
- Researching political systems either in your country or foreign relations between your country and other foreign nations
- Analyze and present data obtained from relevant sources either at conferences, in journals or organizations with political affiliations
- Develop and test political theories
- Evaluate the effects of government policies and laws on businesses, and people
- Monitor current events, policy decisions, and other related issues
- Make predictions on political, economic, and social trends concerning your country or global trend
- Advice on matters of public policy
- Participate in commentary, documentaries and live shows which centre around public policy and political issues
What Skill Should I Have To Work In A Political Scientist?
Some of the relevant skills for a successful career as a political scientist includes;
- Organizational Skills
- Problem-solving skills
- Teamwork
- Great attention to details
- Communication and interpersonal skills
- Language skills -being bilingual can be a plus
- Decision-making skills
- Project management
- Good writing skills
- Research and analytical skills
Where Can I Work As A Political Scientist?
Some of the organisations where you would work as an Aid worker includes;
- United Nations
- Non-profit Organizations
- Embassies
- Universities
- Within Federal, State or Local governments
- Media Organisations
- As assistants to political
What Steps Can I Take To Become A Political Scientist?
A degree in political science enables you to work in the following positions within an organisation, they include;
- Government Affairs Researcher
- Policy Officer
- Political Advisor
- Political Analyst
- Political Consultant
- Program Analyst
- Local Governance and Citizen Participation Specialist
While having a degree gives you an advantage, getting a job as a political scientist is very competitive especially when applying to international organisations. Somethings that sets you apart includes relevant experience which can be gotten from paid internships or volunteering via various organisations.Getting a masters degree is always advised after you have spent some years working in a specific area or field as this gives you an insight on what area you are looking to specialize in during your post-graduate education.
