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Contract Think Tank Researcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Think Tank, Inc.

Fishery Biologist II

Key Biscayne, FL · On-site

Position is Subject to Contract Award Position Overview Think Tank Inc. is seeking Fishery Biologist II candidates to support the SEFSC Fisheries Statistics Division at the Miami Lab. These positions ...

Think Tank, Inc.

Economist

Silver Spring, MD · On-site +1

Position is Subject to Contract Award Position Overview Think Tank Inc. may seek one (1) Economist to support NOAA Fisheries GARFO's Protected Resources Division rulemaking efforts under the MMPA and ...

Think Tank, Inc.

Economist

Silver Spring, MD · Remote

Position is Subject to Contract Award Position Overview Think Tank Inc. may seek one (1) Economist to support NOAA Fisheries GARFO's Protected Resources Division rulemaking efforts under the MMPA and ...

Think Tank, Inc.

Gear Liasion

Silver Spring, MD · On-site

Position is Subject to Contract Award Position Overview Think Tank Inc. is seeking one (1) Gear Liaison to work with the fishing industry and other organizations to create and test gear modifications ...

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All JobsContract Think Tank Researcher Jobs

Contract Think Tank Researcher information

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$30K

$113.1K

$164.5K

How much do contract think tank researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract think tank researcher in the United States is $113,102.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $154,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by contract think tank researchers, and how can they be managed?

Contract think tank researchers often juggle multiple projects with tight deadlines, requiring excellent time management and adaptability. Since much of the work is independent, remote collaboration with policy analysts, subject matter experts, and project managers is common, making clear communication essential. Navigating evolving project scopes and ensuring research aligns with client or organizational objectives can also be challenging, so maintaining regular check-ins and documenting progress is helpful. Embracing tools for virtual teamwork and proactively seeking feedback can make the role more manageable and rewarding.

What are Contract Think Tank Researchers?

Contract Think Tank Researchers are professionals hired on a temporary or project basis to conduct research, analysis, and reporting for think tanks—organizations that provide policy recommendations and expertise on various issues. Unlike full-time staff, contract researchers are often brought in for their specialized knowledge or to work on specific projects. Their work may involve gathering data, writing reports, and presenting findings to stakeholders. This role is ideal for individuals who enjoy flexible work arrangements and have strong analytical and communication skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Contract Think Tank Researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Think Tank Researcher, you need strong analytical skills, subject-matter expertise, and a background in research methodologies, typically supported by an advanced degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with data analysis software (such as SPSS or Stata), citation management tools, and online research databases is highly valuable. Exceptional written communication, critical thinking, and the ability to work independently are crucial soft skills for success. These competencies enable researchers to produce rigorous, influential reports and insights that inform policy and drive organizational goals.

What is the difference between Contract Think Tank Researcher vs Policy Analyst?

AspectContract Think Tank ResearcherPolicy Analyst
CredentialsMaster's degree or higher in political science, public policy, or related fieldsSimilar educational background, often with advanced degrees
Work EnvironmentResearch-focused, often in think tanks or research institutesPolicy development, government agencies, or advocacy groups
Employer & IndustryThink tanks, research organizations, non-profitsGovernment agencies, think tanks, consulting firms
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research roles in think tanksComparing policy analysis careers

Contract Think Tank Researchers primarily focus on conducting in-depth research within think tanks, often producing reports and policy briefs. Policy Analysts, while also involved in research, tend to work more directly on policy development, advising government or organizations. Both roles require strong analytical skills and similar educational backgrounds, but their work environments and primary objectives differ.

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Contract Think Tank Researcher jobs near you
Research Administrator

Research Administrator

The Public Interest Network

Denver, CO • On-site

$40K - $42K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

The Public Interest Network is hiring a Research Administrator who will work closely with leadership staff to develop our in-house "think tank," which is dedicated to re-orienting America's political and cultural conversation.

According to a 2020 study in Nature, the combined mass of man-made things now outweighs all life on Earth. We already produce more food than we can eat and more clothes than we can wear.  And our continued pursuit of limitless economic growth and job creation has profound consequences, amongst them: the pollution of our environment, the use of toxic chemicals in products - even toys - on store shelves, and a fanatical commitment to keeping people in jobs even if those jobs are dangerous or soul-crushing or unnecessary.

It's time to change our thinking and ask big questions, like: 
  • Why do we still treat economic growth as synonymous with progress, even as its costs overwhelm its benefits?
  • What if the real challenge of automation is not job loss, but our inability to imagine a good life beyond traditional employment?
The administrator will provide critical support to the development of the think tank project. This position requires excellent judgment, discretion and the ability to oversee significant projects. Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:
  • Procuring, organizing, and archiving useful resources for research projects.
  • Keeping track of various think tank projects, and providing regular updates to leadership.
  • Building our list of potential contacts and collaborators, like-minded organizations, and relevant conferences.
  • Exploring potential funding opportunities and presenting findings to leadership staff. 
  • Coordinating weekly team calls and ad hoc meetings and retreats. 
  • Maintaining the team's budget and processing expenses.
  • Potential additional projects such as helping to create and curate a monthly publication or managing an intern program. 
  • Working with other departments and teams in The Public Interest Network as needed to provide organizational support. 
  • You're interested in solving big problems. You have a strong affinity for our vision of a new politics that faces today's challenges head on.
  • You're proactive. When you see a problem to solve or something to be done, you do it.
  • You're smart, detail-oriented, and organized. You can manage multiple projects and you thrive when under a deadline.
  • You're open-minded. You can get your head around complex issues, are willing to have open dialogue about problems, and are okay working with people whose viewpoints may differ.
  • You're accountable. You respect goals and deadlines.
  • You're ready to put in the hard work to start from scratch with just an idea and help turn it into a lasting institution.
Ideal candidates will have 1-3 years of experience, but entry-level candidates with a passion for our issues, mission, and values are encouraged to apply.
Compensation and Benefits
The starting target annual compensation for this position is $40,250-$42,750. The Public Interest Network offers an excellent benefits package. Our benefits package includes medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and dependents, time off, a commuter benefit program, a 401(k) plan with employer match, parental leave, long term disability insurance, and may include needs-based student loan assistance. We also offer an excellent training program and opportunities for advancement.

Location
Denver, CO

Why work with The Public Interest Network? Check out ten reasons: https://publicinterestnetwork.org/why-work-with-us/.

Our Mission and Values
The Public Interest Network operates and supports organizations committed to a shared vision of a better world and a strategic approach to social change. Visit https://publicinterestnetwork.org/core-values for things you should know about our network when you apply. Within the first document you will find a link to a second; please read both carefully. 

Please do not use AI to help draft your cover letter or responses to our application questions. We want to know how you think and write.

Fund for the Public Interest is an equal opportunity employer.

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