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Defense Policy Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Developing policy recommendations for CD/CTOC/CTF initiatives. * Supporting interagency and ... Coordinating with Combatant Commands and Defense Agencies. * Supporting development of security ...

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Defense Policy information

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$44K

$104.8K

$156.5K

How much do defense policy jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense policy in the United States is $104,760.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,000.00 and $127,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Defense Policy vs Defense Analyst?

AspectDefense PolicyDefense Analyst
Required CredentialsDegree in political science, international relations, or defense studies; often advanced degreesDegree in security studies, political science, or related fields; certifications may include security clearances
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, think tanks, defense departments; policy development and strategic planningResearch institutions, government agencies, defense contractors; data analysis and intelligence gathering
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in government and defense sectors focusing on policy formulationIn government, military, and private sectors analyzing defense data and trends

Defense Policy professionals focus on creating and shaping national defense strategies and policies, while Defense Analysts analyze defense data and intelligence to inform decision-making. Both roles require relevant credentials and often work within government or defense-related organizations, but their core functions differ in policy development versus data analysis.

More about Defense Policy jobs
What cities are hiring for Defense Policy jobs? Cities with the most Defense Policy job openings:
What states have the most Defense Policy jobs? States with the most job openings for Defense Policy jobs include:
Infographic showing various Defense Policy job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, and 29% Part Time. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,760 per year, or $50.4 per hour.

Fall Intern: US Foreign Policy and Communications

AEI

Washington, DC โ€ข On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

Other

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

Overview
The American Enterprise Institute seeks an intern who will assist Distinguished Senior Fellow Danielle Pletka and Senior Fellow Marc A. Thiessen in research tasks for regular opinion columns, long-term projects, and events. Typical research will relate to the Middle East, China, America's role in the international community, and occasionally domestic politics
The intern will assist with research for the What the Hell Is Going On? podcast. The intern will also provide research and communications support for Director of Foreign and Defense Policy Studies Kori Schake on various foreign policy topics, including measuring the department's output, drafting promotional materials, and maintaining a comprehensive understanding of the Foreign and Defense Policy Studies department's published works.
The ideal candidate is detail oriented, demonstrates strong analytic and writing skills, can work in a fast-paced environment, and has a passion for foreign affairs. Applicants should have a background and demonstrated interest in US foreign policy and national security. Experience with digital media and customer relations is a plus. Candidates who are able to participate in the program on an in-person basis for 25-40 hours per week are encouraged to apply.
About AEI Internships
AEI internships offer a unique opportunity for undergraduates, graduate students, and recent graduates to gain experience in research, writing, business, and communications at one of the nation's leading think tanks.
Competitive candidates will generally have a GPA of 3.5 or higher from a top-ranking college or university. AEI's internship program runs for 12 weeks and all related programming will take place in-person in Washington, DC. Please see the internship program home page for updates about the program.
The fall program dates are either Tuesday, September 8, to Friday, December 4 or Tuesday, September 15, to Friday, December 11.