Job Description
Research Director
Location: Maine
Salary: $7,000–$11,000/month, based on experience
Start Date: Immediate
Graham Platner for U.S. Senate is looking for an experienced Research Director to lead our research efforts.
As Research Director, you will develop and execute a comprehensive research and vetting strategy to ensure the campaign has the strategic intelligence needed to take on billionaire-backed politicians. The ideal candidate will have experience conducting opposition and self-research for a federal campaign, be highly organized, and bring a sharp, analytical, and rapid-response approach to political strategy.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Planning & Strategy
- Develop and implement a detailed opposition research, self-research, and vetting plan.
- Coordinate with campaign leadership (Communications, Digital, and Policy) to align research findings with the campaign’s daily messaging and long-term strategy.
- Anticipate opponent lines of attack and build comprehensive defense strategies and rapid-response toolkits.
Research Execution & Fact-Checking
- Conduct exhaustive opposition research on public records, voting records, financial disclosures, corporate ties, and media statements.
- Manage the campaign’s vetting process for surrogates, major donors, events, and policy proposals to mitigate risk.
- Fact-check campaign materials, including press releases, TV ads, mail pieces, and digital content, ensuring absolute accuracy under pressure.
- Maintain an organized, secure, and easily searchable research database (books, briefings, and backup clips).
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Proven experience conducting opposition and/or self-research for a federal or high-profile statewide campaign.
- Highly organized, detail-oriented, and capable of managing tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- Proficiency with research tools (e.g., LexisNexis, Westlaw, FEC databases, public records requests/FOIA, and media monitoring software).
- Willingness to work a campaign schedule, including irregular hours and rapid-response situations.
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS:
- Salary range of $7,000–$11,000/month, depending on experience
- Health benefits available
- This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement and is part of the campaign’s bargaining unit
This campaign is about standing up to the wealthy elite and fighting for everyday Mainers. If you’re ready to be part of a movement that challenges the status quo by uncovering the truth and holding power accountable, we’d love to hear from you!
TO APPLY:
Please submit your resume and a brief writing or research sample to jobs@grahamforsenate.com with the subject line: “Research Director Application – [Your Name]”
Let’s make history together.
Graham for Maine is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of age, disability, sex, race, religion or belief, gender, marriage/civil partnership, pregnancy/maternity, or sexual orientation.