I received my Master's in Poli Sci in 1994. I worked in municipal government for a year. (pure hell, mostly due to the mayor I worked for). I then did not-for-profit administration for a few years before finally making the plunge into Greek Life advising. Most people think its funny, but I have actually used some international relations theory in advising fraternities and sororities!
Most people I know that have established successful careers in the field have done so in state/local government or through lobbying. Lobbying seems to be one of the better opportunities careerwise if you are willing to do it. In politics/government who you know is at least as important as what you know. Good luck.