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Entry Level Foreign Policy Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Case Officer

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$72K - $109K/yr

S. foreign policy and national security decision-makers. You will be expected to build ... All DO officers are hired at an entry level and train as they are expected to work - as one team.

Associate Editor

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$48K - $60K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

... foreign policy, among many others. About the role We are pleased to announce that we are now ... Qualifications This role is an entry-level position, well-suited for recent college graduates or ...

Entry Level Foreign Policy information

See Washington salary details

$22K

$54K

$104.7K

How much do entry level foreign policy jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level foreign policy in Washington is $53,950.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,651.00 and $58,514.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of projects or assignments can an entry level foreign policy professional expect to work on?

Entry-level foreign policy professionals typically support research, draft reports, monitor international news, and assist with policy analysis. They may help prepare briefing materials, coordinate meetings, and track legislative or diplomatic initiatives. Collaboration with senior analysts, diplomats, or interdepartmental teams is common, offering a chance to learn from experienced colleagues and contribute to policy discussions. The work environment is often fast-paced and requires staying informed about current global events.

What is the difference between Entry Level Foreign Policy vs Entry Level International Relations?

AspectEntry Level Foreign PolicyEntry Level International Relations
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Political Science, International Studies, or related fieldBachelor's in Political Science, International Studies, or related field
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, think tanks, NGOsGovernment agencies, research institutions, NGOs
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in policy analysis, diplomatic support, government rolesUsed in research, policy development, diplomatic analysis

Entry Level Foreign Policy and Entry Level International Relations share similar educational backgrounds and work environments. The main difference lies in focus: Foreign Policy emphasizes practical policy implementation and diplomatic strategies, while International Relations covers broader theoretical and analytical aspects of global interactions. Both roles are common starting points for careers in international affairs, often overlapping in skills and employer types.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level foreign policy analyst, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Foreign Policy Analyst, a bachelor’s degree in international relations, political science, or a related field, along with strong research and analytical skills, are essential. Familiarity with data analysis tools, foreign policy databases, and sometimes proficiency in a foreign language are typically expected. Outstanding written and verbal communication, cultural awareness, and critical thinking help candidates stand out. These skills are vital for effectively assessing global issues, communicating findings, and supporting informed decision-making in a complex international environment.

What is an entry level foreign policy job?

Entry level foreign policy jobs are positions within government agencies, think tanks, international organizations, or non-profits that focus on international relations and diplomacy. These roles typically involve research, policy analysis, administrative support, and assisting with the development and implementation of foreign policy initiatives. Examples include research assistant, policy analyst, program coordinator, or junior diplomat. These positions often require strong analytical, communication, and writing skills, as well as an understanding of global affairs. Most entry level foreign policy jobs require at least a bachelor's degree in political science, international relations, or a related field.
What cities in Washington are hiring for Entry Level Foreign Policy jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Entry Level Foreign Policy job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Foreign Policy job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 60% In-person, and 40% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,950 per year, or $25.9 per hour.

Case Officer

Central Intelligence Agency

Washington, DC • On-site, Remote

$72K - $109K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Summary
Case Officers clandestinely spot, assess, develop, recruit, and handle non-U.S. citizens with access to foreign intelligence vital to U.S. foreign policy and national security decision-makers.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
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As a Case Officer for the CIA, you will focus on clandestinely spotting, assessing, developing, recruiting, and handling non-U.S. citizens with access to foreign intelligence vital to U.S. foreign policy and national security decision-makers. You will be expected to build relationships based on rapport and trust using sound judgment, integrity, and the ability to assess character and motivation.
Case Officers spend most of their careers serving in multi-year assignments in a variety of overseas locations. As such, all Case Officers must be able to be medically cleared for world wide deployment. All Case Officers address a highly diverse and dynamic set of intelligence requirements on country- and region-specific issues, as well as transnational issues such as counterterrorism, counter proliferation, and cyber.
All DO officers are hired at an entry level and train as they are expected to work - as one team. DO officers are hired into one of two programs: the Clandestine Service Trainee (CST) program or the Professional Trainee (PT) program. A CST has three or more years of professional experience, while a PT has less than three years of professional experience. DO officers begin their careers learning the foundations of operations via classroom training, practical exercises, and on-the-job experience gained through a series of interim assignments. Based on the program into which each applicant is hired, the number of interim assignments will vary.
As part of the program, some DO officers will be expected to:
  • Operate a motor vehicle without second-party assistance in daytime and nighttime conditions;
  • Traverse uneven terrain, to include climbing and descending staircases, over fixed minimum distances and in varying weather conditions;
  • Work non-traditional or erratic schedules;
  • Make reasoned decisions under time constraints.

This position requires a 5-year Contract Term Agreement.
Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • You must be physically in the United States or one of its territories when you submit your resume via MyLINK.
  • You must be registered for the Selective Service, if applicable.
  • You must be a U.S. citizen and at least 18 years of age (dual-national US citizens are eligible).
  • You must be willing to move to the Washington, DC area.
  • You must successfully complete a thorough medical and psychological exam, a polygraph interview, and a comprehensive background investigation.
  • For further information, please visit: https://www.cia.gov/careers/how-we-hire/

Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications
Interested candidates should be passionate about the ideals of our American republic, committed to upholding the rule of law and the U.S. Constitution, and committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government. Hiring decisions will not be based on race, sex, color, religion, or national origin.
  • Personal integrity
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills (verbal and written)
  • Action- and results-oriented
  • Ability to work effectively as part of a team and independently
  • Flexibility, adaptability, and commitment to the mission of the CIA and the Directorate of Operations
  • Ability to meet the minimum requirements for joining CIA, including U.S. citizenship and a background investigation

Desired Qualifications
  • Willingness and ability to establish strong personal relationships
  • Ability to "think on your feet" and develop creative yet practical solutions to anticipated and unanticipated problems
  • Interest in seeking answers, learning foreign languages, and studying other cultures

Education
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution (applicants within one year of earning a four-year degree will be considered); there is no preferred major or program of study (degrees from foreign academic institutions are accepted, but you are responsible for obtaining and providing CIA with a credential evaluation from an accredited firm confirming that the foreign degree is the equivalent of a BA/BS and/or MA/MS degree conferred by a U.S. college or university)
  • At least a 3.0 GPA on a 4-point scale is preferred

Additional information
Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Review our benefits
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.