Research Associate

About the Organization

The Democratic National Committee is recruiting for a Research Associate to support its campaign messaging and strategy efforts. The team examines a wide range of source materials, including public records, campaign finance reports, articles, interviews, social media, books, and legislation, to develop a strong understanding of the people and issues being tracked. The role also involves staying on top of news and current events so research findings can be turned quickly into response materials.

Role Overview

This position sits within a research function that directly supports election work and collaborates closely with other DNC departments, campaigns, and state parties. The ideal candidate brings sound political judgment, familiarity with political actors and institutions, and solid research and writing ability. A working grasp of the U.S. political environment and major policy questions is important for success in this role.

Responsibilities

• Review, interpret, and format materials such as news clippings, voting records, campaign finance information, corporate documents, public records, legal records, and related source data with speed and accuracy.
• Prepare concise research memos and background documents for rapid-response and communications teams to use in public-facing content.
• Track local and national news coverage and pull out the most relevant points.
• Translate complicated issues into clear, factual, and brief narratives.
• Handle additional assignments as needed to advance departmental goals and the DNC mission.

Requirements

• Strong written and spoken communication skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and solid organizational ability.
• Ability to accept direction, ask clarifying questions, and learn new tools and databases quickly.
• Self-driven approach with the discipline to work under strict deadlines.
• Creative mindset and willingness to explore new approaches.
• Comfort working in a fast-moving, around-the-clock news environment.
• High-level proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Political training or experience that helps in understanding and explaining the importance of events and findings.
• Familiarity with Nexis, campaign finance databases, federal and state vote analysis, statistical data collection, and primary-source research is a plus.
• Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Background in political research, campaigns, or government is an added advantage.
• This is a full-time, non-exempt role eligible for overtime pay for hours over 40 in a workweek.
• The position is part of the bargaining unit represented by SEIU Local-500.
• The employer maintains an equal opportunity hiring policy and does not tolerate unlawful discrimination.

Compensation and Benefits

The starting salary is $54,100 per year, offered on an annualized basis and adjusted according to experience and qualifications.

• Generous paid time off, including federal holidays and open leave.
• Health and dental coverage for employees and dependents, with 90% of premiums paid by the employer and 10% by the employee.
• Optional vision coverage available for purchase.
• Employer 401(k) contribution match of up to 5%.
• Pre-tax flexible spending account benefits for employees and dependents.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The organization is committed to building and retaining a diverse workforce and bases employment decisions on merit and business needs, without discrimination on protected characteristics.