Campaign Jobs 101
What to know if you’re thinking about working on your first campaign
Campaign jobs. If you’re in the political world, those words either put a fire in your eyes or make you tense up just a little. But if you’re still looking at this world from the outside, then it might be a blurrier picture or complete mystery.
So let’s break down what makes campaigns different from all other jobs and how to land a role on one.
Campaign Myth #1: “How different can it really be from an office job?”
Let’s be honest about one thing upfront: Campaign work is far from a typical 9-5. Days are long, stakes are high, and staff will put in whatever work they think it takes to win – because they care deeply about the outcome.
It’s not uncommon for staff to log 70+ hour weeks and work straight through weekends once the campaign enters its final weeks. It can be both exhausting and extremely rewarding, and folks either fall in love with the experience or do it once and move on. Sometimes both!
Beyond daily hours, campaigns also have a unique hiring cadence. Most candidates look for senior level staff 9-12 months before their election, and junior level staff about 4-6 months out. Every job on a campaign comes with a clear end date: election day.
That can be a scary thought if you’re used to longer term stability: “Why would I accept a job knowing I’ll be unemployed in 6-12 months?” But seasoned campaign staffers learn how to ride this rhythm, anticipating the next election cycle and leaning on their newfound connections to lead them towards future roles or a gig in between.
Campaign work isn’t for everyone, but it's a unique experience that many give at least one go in their political careers. And those who do leave with evergreen skills, long-lasting relationships, and an experience of pouring their heart and passion into their work.
Campaign Myth #2: Campaigns are glamorous
There’s another thing you should know if you’re looking for campaign work. Most of the time, it happens far out of the spotlight on “big name” politicians.
You might meet some VIPs or even cross paths with your heroes, but know that these interactions are usually momentary, and by and large your days won’t be spent working next to these people. You’ll walk away with a pocketful of stories to tell, but these moments won’t define your days by a long shot.
Instead, be prepared to drive hours in rental cars, eat at chain restaurants, and work on folding tables doubling as desks.
What you will gain is much better: deep, lasting relationships with like-minded people and a life experience that not many get. If you show up for that, it will be well worth the hard work, with highly coveted, transferable skills across multiple industries outside politics as well.
Campaign Myth #3: You have to live in D.C. to get your foot in the door
You don’t need to live anywhere near Washington D.C. to work in politics! Our own NDTC team is spread all over the country – and campaigns happen in every state, city, and district.
Concerned that you don’t have the “right connections”? Sure, like any industry, knowing people helps. But it’s not the only doorway to entry.
Plenty of campaign staffers are happy to lend their time to talk to someone just getting started. We’ve already said it, but campaigns are labors of love, so many alum are eager to get new people involved. Meeting up for coffee or even over Zoom is a great way to build your first connection.
Trying to get on a campaign?
If you’re still in the early stages of thinking about jumping on a campaign, here are a few quick courses to help you understand what kinds of opportunities they offer:
If you’re looking for campaign job listings or just want a look at what’s currently out there, GAIN Power’s job board is a great place to start. It’s not exclusive to campaign jobs, but when there are new campaign openings, you will see them pop up on that list. Jobs That Are Left is another great board that has some crossover, but they also host a google group if you prefer to get job alerts that way.
If you see some listings you like but need help getting an application together, check out our course on building a powerful political job application and our cover letter example.
And of course, our website is always stockpiled with more career and campaign resources.
Take the Leap!
Democratic politics is made better when more passionate, driven, and enthusiastic people get the ring. And some of the biggest names and most successful campaign staff are folks who never initially saw themselves in this line of work. So don’t count yourself out. If there’s a candidate you believe in, you’re qualified to help them win. If there’s a seat you think needs a Democrat in charge, you belong in this work. We’re here to train you from sending your first application to Election Day, and we’d be thrilled to see you on the campaign trail!
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