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Defense Policy Analyst Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Systems Planning and Analysis

$130K - $180K/yr

Experience conducting DOTMLPFP gap analyses or similar capability assessments in CWMD or CBRN defense * Experience representing Service or MAJCOM positions in Joint or interagency planning and policy ...

Armada Ltd

Policy Analyst III

Arlington, VA

Policy Analyst III conduct technical liaison and coordination with stakeholders across the Naval Research Enterprise (NRE), Department of Defense (DoD), other federal agencies, and academia. * Policy ...

Dexis

Policy Analyst, DOW

Washington, DC

... Departments, and Defense Agencies. This position is contingent upon contract award ... Analyze national security policy issues related to DoW support of National Drug Control Program ...

Armada Ltd

Policy Analyst III

Arlington, VA · On-site

Policy Analyst III conduct technical liaison and coordination with stakeholders across the Naval Research Enterprise (NRE), Department of Defense (DoD), other federal agencies, and academia.Policy ...

Tulk LLC

Policy Analyst Senior

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$145K - $185K/yr

Policy Analyst Senior TULK is a boutique strategic technology and management consulting firm ... S. Federal Government, Defense, Intelligence Community, and National Security customers. Our ...

Tulk LLC

Policy Analyst Mid

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

$124K - $148K/yr

Policy Analyst Mid TULK is a boutique strategic technology and management consulting firm ... S. Federal Government, Defense, Intelligence Community, and National Security customers. Our ...

Dexis

Policy Analyst, DOW

Washington, DC · On-site

... Departments, and Defense Agencies. This position is contingent upon contract award ... Analyze national security policy issues related to DoW support of National Drug Control Program ...

Tulk LLC

Policy Analyst Senior

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

$145K - $185K/yr

Policy Analyst Senior TULK is a boutique strategic technology and management consulting firm ... S. Federal Government, Defense, Intelligence Community, and National Security customers. Our ...

Everwatch

Policy Analyst, Mid

Springfield, VA · On-site

$62.50 - $72.12/hr

Job Title Policy Analyst, Mid Overview EverWatch is a government solutions company providing advanced defense, intelligence, and deployed support to our country's most critical missions. We are a ...

GRVTY

Policy Analyst - Mid

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

We are seeking a Mid-Level Policy Analyst to support strategic planning, policy operations ... defense--including the ones still being explored. Our growing capabilities create complementary ...

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All JobsDefense Policy Analyst Jobs

Defense Policy Analyst information

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$53.5K

$100.9K

$117K

How much do defense policy analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense policy analyst in the United States is $100,949.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,000.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is a defense policy analyst a good career?

A defense policy analyst is a valuable role that involves analyzing national security strategies, policy development, and defense programs. It typically requires strong research, analytical skills, and security clearances, with opportunities in government agencies, think tanks, and military organizations. The career offers stability and the chance to influence national security policies but may involve sensitive work and a competitive hiring process.

What are the common challenges faced by defense policy analysts, and how can I prepare for them?

Defense Policy Analysts often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing geopolitical events, handling sensitive or classified information, and synthesizing large volumes of complex data from multiple sources. To prepare, it's beneficial to develop strong research skills, stay informed about global security trends, and maintain high ethical standards when dealing with confidential material. The role typically involves collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, briefings for senior leaders, and sometimes working under tight deadlines to provide timely policy recommendations. By practicing adaptability and honing your analytical and communication abilities, you can effectively manage these demands and contribute valuable perspectives to defense policy discussions.

What does a defense policy analyst do?

A Defense Policy Analyst evaluates military strategies, national security policies, and defense programs to provide recommendations to government agencies, think tanks, or private organizations. They conduct research, analyze geopolitical risks, and assess military capabilities to shape defense policies. Their work often involves producing reports, briefings, and policy recommendations to support decision-makers in enhancing national security and military effectiveness.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a defense policy analyst?

To thrive as a Defense Policy Analyst, you need strong analytical skills, an understanding of international relations or security studies, and typically at least a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field. Expertise with research databases, data analysis tools, and familiarity with policy analysis frameworks or simulation software is often expected. Exceptional communication, critical thinking, and collaborative skills help you explain findings and work effectively with military, government, and civilian stakeholders. These capabilities are crucial for producing actionable insights and guiding informed defense policy decisions.

How do you become a defense policy analyst?

To become a defense policy analyst, typically a bachelor's degree in political science, international relations, or a related field is required, often followed by a master's degree for advanced roles. Relevant skills include strong research, analytical, and communication abilities, and security clearance may be necessary for certain positions. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level roles in government or defense organizations can also be beneficial.
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Defense Policy Analyst jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Policy Analyst job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 84% In-person, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,949 per year, or $48.5 per hour.

Policy Analyst

US Department of Homeland Security

Washington, DC

$121K/yr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

U.S. Department Of Homeland Security rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

93rd of 289 rated public sector bodies

Job description

The position is located in the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Office of Strategy, Policy, and Plans, Trade and Economic Security (TES).
The primary purpose of this position is to conduct in-depth analysis and provide recommendations concerning mitigation, compliance, and enforcement matters tied to foreign investment transactions involving CFIUS and Team Telecom under the supervision of the Director for Risk Mitigation & Compliance Monitoring.
Qualifications:Specialized Experience: To qualify for the GS-13 you must possess one of the following: A. At least one year of specialized experience, equivalent to at least the GS-12 grade level in Federal service, OR B. Equivalent public or private sector experience. For this position, specialized experience is defined as:

(1) Assessing national security risk arising from foreign investments in the United States,

(2) Developing or implementing risk mitigation strategies aimed at addressing risks arising from foreign investment or participation,

(3) Compliance monitoring, enforcement, or auditing, OR

(4) National security policy, defense policy, foreign policy, or intelligence analysis.

Substitution of education in lieu of specialized experience may not be used for this grade level
All qualifications and eligibility requirements must be met by the closing date of the announcement.
National Service Experience: Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
Current or Former Political Appointees: The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) must authorize employment offers made to current or former political appointees. If you are currently, or have been within the last 5 years, a political Schedule A, Schedule C, Non-career SES or Presidential Appointee employee in the Executive Branch, you must disclose this information to the Human Resources Office.Education:Not ApplicableEmployment Type: OTHER

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About U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is a federal agency operating within the government services industry in Washington, DC, US. Established in 2003, the DHS is directly responsible for public security, roughly comparable to the interior or home ministries of other countries. Its main responsibilities include protecting the United States from and responding to terrorist attacks, man-made accidents, and natural disasters. Through its more than 20 component agencies including Coast Guard, Customs and Border Protection, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, it ensures the safety of the US through numerous programs and initiatives. The DHS upholds a core value system with the mission of safeguarding the American people, our homeland, and values. Notably, the DHS plays a critical role in the spectral range of activities to prepare, prevent, and respond to possible threats to the US.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

Year founded

2003

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