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Conservative Think Tank Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Policy Scholar

Austin, TX ยท On-site

$107K - $115K/yr

The Texas Public Policy Foundation (TPPF) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit research-based think tank in Austin, Texas. Established in 1989, TPPF promotes conservative principles and develops free-market ...

Break important news on the conservative movement -- about MAGA media stars, White House power players, influential think tanks and more * Write buzzy, deeply reported stories on the topics driving ...

Permitting Policy Director

San Francisco, CA ยท Remote

$135K - $160K/yr

... in conservative and purple states. The specific policies and states will be divided with Permit ... industry, think tanks, and others to broaden support for a permitting reform agenda and to ...

Conservative Think Tank information

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How much do conservative think tank jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for conservative think tank in the United States is $17.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $20.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a conservative think tank?

A conservative think tank is an organization that conducts research, analysis, and advocacy on public policy issues from a conservative or right-leaning perspective. These institutions aim to influence legislation, promote free-market principles, limited government, and traditional values. They often publish policy papers, host events, and provide commentary to inform lawmakers, the media, and the public. Conservative think tanks play a significant role in shaping policy debates and advancing conservative ideas at local, national, and international levels.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive at a conservative think tank, and why are they important?

To thrive at a conservative think tank, you generally need strong research, analytical, and writing skills, often supported by a degree in political science, economics, or a related field. Familiarity with policy analysis tools, data visualization software, and experience publishing policy briefs or reports is highly valuable. Effective communication, networking, and the ability to engage in respectful debate are crucial soft skills for influencing policymakers and public discourse. These abilities are essential for producing credible research, shaping policy debates, and advancing the think tank's mission.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working at a conservative think tank?

Professionals at conservative think tanks often face the challenge of balancing rigorous policy research with effective public communication. They must stay up-to-date on policy developments, anticipate political shifts, and respond quickly to current events. Additionally, building consensus among stakeholders and navigating differences of opinion within teams can be complex. Collaboration with researchers, policy analysts, and communications teams is essential to ensure that research findings are both accurate and accessible to policymakers and the public.

What is the difference between Conservative Think Tank vs Policy Analyst?

AspectConservative Think TankPolicy Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Political Science, Public Policy, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Political Science, Public Policy, Economics, or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch-focused, think tank offices, policy advocacyResearch, analysis, report writing, often in government or consulting settings
Employer & Industry UsageNonprofit think tanks, advocacy groups, political organizationsGovernment agencies, consulting firms, research organizations

While both roles involve policy research and analysis, a Conservative Think Tank primarily focuses on developing and promoting conservative policy ideas within a think tank environment. A Policy Analyst may work across various sectors, including government or private firms, analyzing policies from multiple perspectives. The roles overlap in skills and credentials but differ in focus and work setting.

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Infographic showing various Conservative Think Tank job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,994 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Policy Scholar

Austin, TX โ€ข On-site

Texas Public Policy Foundation
Executive Offices and Legislative Bodiesย โ€ขย 1 - 10 employees

$107K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Conduct original research and quantitative analysis on public policy issues.

  • Produce high-quality scholarship with the aim of academic publication.

  • Educate lawmakers and the public on Foundation research and provide formal testimony to various entities.


Job description

The Texas Public Policy Foundation seeks to hire a Policy Scholar to conduct and disseminate high-quality research and qualitative analysis to lawmakers and the public. This role engages the entirety of the Foundation's work: we therefore seek accomplished generalists who understand research methodology and credibility across domains.
About TPPF:
The Texas Public Policy Foundation (TPPF) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit research-based think tank in Austin, Texas. Established in 1989, TPPF promotes conservative principles and develops free-market approaches to public policy challenges affecting Texans and all Americans. To achieve its mission, TPPF analyzes complex issues, creates legislative policy solutions, and advocates for those solutions at the Texas Legislature, Congress, and other public forums.
Life at TPPF:
The Foundation offers a unique opportunity to be part of an organization that shapes the future of Texas & beyond through innovative thought leadership. At TPPF, you will have the opportunity to be part of an engaged team whose mission is to create a freer future for all Texans and Americans. We look for individuals who are passionate about advancing conservative public policy and embody servant leadership. With a strong belief in personal responsibility, we trust our people and want to empower them to make the right decisions for the right reasons - this is why it is crucial we bring the right people on board. We value our team and work to cultivate a culture of hard work, entrepreneurship, intellectual curiosity, and collaboration. As a team, we support one another and strive to create an environment in which our team members are inspired to excel, motivated to innovate, and empowered to be servant leaders for the cause of liberty.
The Role:
Description:
The Policy Scholar will form a corps of informed and effective individuals within the Foundation, tasked with tackling projects on an as-needed basis. They will be called upon to work with peers across the Foundation, so personal and professional flexibility are musts.
Responsibilities:
  • Conduct original research and quantitative analysis on a variety of public policy issues.
  • Produce high-quality scholarship, with the aim of academic publication.
  • Educate lawmakers and members of the public on Foundation research.
  • Provide formal testimony to local, state, and federal entities.
  • Take advantage of both internal and external ongoing development opportunities.
  • Represent the Foundation in media as required.

Qualifications:
  • Two or more years of experience in policy-related research.
  • Demonstrable ability to produce top-tier academic research.
  • Strong research and writing abilities.
  • Strong quantitative-analysis skillset, including experience with statistical software packages like SPSS, Stata, R, and the like.
Benefits at TPPF:
TPPF values our team members and strives to provide a comprehensive benefits package so that our people can focus on achieving the mission. We offer competitive salaries and excellent health insurance, for staff & dependents. In addition, we have generous Paid Time Off (PTO) policies, including holidays and parental leave, and retirement contribution matching.