Looking to make good money while making a political impact?
You’re about to explore some pretty exciting career options. Geared for those with a keen interest in political affairs, this list highlights the best jobs for folks who want to combine their activism with a healthy paycheck.
What Makes a Good Job for People Interested in Politics?
We looked for jobs that:
- Offer the opportunity to influence policy or public opinion
- Require strong skills in argumentation and debate
- Have a dynamic environment that keeps you on your toes with current events
- Provide platforms for networking with like-minded professionals
- Allow for upward mobility based on merit and skills, rather than just tenure
- Are steeped in the issues of governance, law, or public affairs
Best Jobs for People Interested in Politics
So, you’re wondering if you need a degree to land one of these high-paying, politically-oriented jobs? While it might help, a lot of the positions on this list don’t require one. Skillset and specialized certifications can get you just as far, and net you a solid income to boot.
Ready to explore some intriguing career options in politics? Let’s jump right in.
1. Political Consultant
Average salary: $75,637
A political consultant advises candidates, campaigns, and organizations on political strategies. They may also be known as political strategists or campaign consultants.
Job duties:
- Crafting campaign strategies
- Analyzing voter data
- Media relations coordination
- Fundraising advising
- Writing speeches
- Issue research
- Monitoring campaign impact
Job requirements:
- Proven track record in political consulting or campaign management
- Strong networking skills
- Media relations experience
- Public speaking skills
- Negotiation abilities
2. Nonprofit Advocacy Director
Average salary: $70,516
A nonprofit advocacy director leads advocacy efforts, focusing on public policy and social issues. Sometimes, this role is referred to as an advocacy manager.
Job duties:
- Developing advocacy strategies
- Meeting policymakers
- Networking with allies
- Fundraising for projects
- Outreaching the media
- Staff management
Job requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in public policy or related field
- Prior work in advocacy or nonprofits
- Familiarity with legislative processes
- Public speaking skills
- Team management experience
- Grant writing ability
3. Political Blogger
Average salary: $88,403
A Political Blogger writes articles or posts on political events, ideologies, and debates. This role can also be known as a political commentator online.
Job duties:
- Writing posts
- Political analysis
- Social media engagement
- Opinion pieces
- Researching trends
- Interviewing sources
Job requirements:
- A background in Political Science or Journalism is helpful but not required
- Proven blogging or writing experience
- Strong grasp of political landscape
- Research skills
- Writing skills
- Ability to build an audience online
4. Speechwriter
Average salary: $88,730
A Speechwriter crafts speeches for politicians, executives, or public figures.
Job duties:
- Drafting speeches
- Researching topics
- Editing content
- Working with speaker
- Adapting tone and style
- Analyzing audience
Job requirements:
- Proven experience as a speechwriter
- Research capabilities
- Strong command of language
- Skill in persuasive writing
- Understanding of rhetorical devices
- Capability to work under tight deadlines
5. Communications Strategist
Average salary: $91,112
A Communications Strategist plans and executes communication campaigns, often under titles like Communications Planner or Communications Specialist.
Job duties:
- Media planning
- Crafting messages
- Analyzing metrics
- Coordinating with teams
- Social media strategy
- Content creation
- Crisis management
Job requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Marketing, or related field
- Proven experience in communications
- Skill in data analysis
- Knowledge of social media platforms
- Good writing skills
- Time management capabilities
- Familiarity with project management software
6. Political Commentator
Average salary: $68,467
A Political Commentator gives opinions on political news and events, also known as a political pundit or political analyst.
Job duties:
- Analyzing news
- Giving opinions
- Writing columns
- TV or radio appearances
- Interviewing guests
- Fact-checking statements
- Social media posts
Job requirements:
- Established following or audience
- Solid grasp of current events
- Skill in public speaking
- Good at researching
- Writing skills
- Capability to articulate complex ideas simply
7. Political Marketing Specialist
Average salary: $46,940
A Political Marketing Specialist manages and directs marketing strategies for political campaigns, also known as Campaign Marketer or Political Advertising Strategist.
Job duties:
- Content planning
- Audience targeting
- Social media ads
- Analyzing metrics
- Crafting slogans
- Event promotions
- Voter outreach
Job requirements:
- Campaign experience
- Skill in data analysis
- Social media know-how
- Copywriting skills
- Ability to multitask
- Good team player
8. Political Correspondent
Average salary: $62,155
A Political Correspondent reports on political events, often referred to as a Political Reporter or Political Journalist.
Job duties:
- Reporting news
- Interviewing sources
- Attending events
- Writing articles
- Investigative work
- Live coverage
- Fact-checking
Job requirements:
- Previous reporting experience
- Solid grasp of political landscape
- Basic photography skills
- Deadline-oriented
- Quick thinker
- Social media savvy
9. Crisis Communication Specialist
Average salary: $64,954
Crisis Communication Specialist manages communication during emergencies or public relations crises. Also known as Crisis PR Specialist or Emergency Communication Advisor.
Job duties:
- Media statements
- Social media updates
- Stakeholder communication
- Crisis plans
- Message crafting
- Internal briefings
- Issue monitoring
Job requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in Communications or Public Relations
- Experience in crisis management
- Skilled in media relations
- Calm under pressure
- Fast decision-maker
- A knack for multitasking
- Good listener
10. Public Diplomacy Officer
Average salary: $93,741
A Public Diplomacy Officer promotes a country’s image and policies abroad, commonly known as Cultural Diplomacy Officer or Foreign Affairs Communication Specialist.
Job duties:
- Public speaking
- Cultural events
- Media interviews
- Social media management
- Press releases
- Local outreach
- Foreign relations
Job requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in International Relations or Communications
- Diplomatic experience
- Proficiency in a second language
- Skilled in conflict resolution
- Public speaking prowess
- Adaptability
- Cross-cultural understanding
11. Union Representative
Average salary: $73,498
A Union Representative acts as a liaison between labor unions and employers, sometimes known as a Labor Union Delegate or Union Steward.
Job duties:
- Negotiate contracts
- Handle grievances
- Member outreach
- Organize meetings
- Draft proposals
- Legal compliance
- Dispute resolution
Job requirements:
- Experience in union activities
- Skilled negotiator
- Conflict resolution skills
- Basic legal knowledge
- Strong oral communication skills
- Team player attitude
12. Grassroots Organizer
Average salary: $72,607
A Grassroots Organizer mobilizes community members for political or social causes, also referred to as Community Organizer or Field Organizer.
Job duties:
- Recruit volunteers
- Coordinate events
- Fundraising
- Social media campaigns
- Voter outreach
- Issue advocacy
- Monitor impact
Job requirements:
- Experience in community organizing
- Social media savvy
- Strong public speaking skills
- Ability to inspire
- Good at networking
- Detail-oriented
13. Public Affairs Specialist
Average salary: $67,566
A Public Affairs Specialist manages the public image and communications for organizations, sometimes going by titles like Media Relations Specialist or Communications Coordinator.
Job duties:
- Craft press releases
- Organize events
- Handle media inquiries
- Create content
- Stakeholder communication
- Monitor news
- Crisis management
Job requirements:
- 2-3 years of experience in PR or related field
- Media relations skills
- Strong writing skills
- Proactive attitude
- Basic graphic design skills
- Ability to multitask
See, There Are Careers for People Interested in Politics!
From Political Blogger to Public Diplomacy Officer, this list is chock-full of intriguing roles for those with a political pulse.
So, which gig caught your eye? Spill the beans in the comments.