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$55.5K

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How much do foreign policy jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for foreign policy in the United States is $96,819.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,500.00 and $115,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Foreign Policy Analyst, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Foreign Policy Analyst, a strong background in international relations, political science, and analytical research—often supported by a relevant degree—is essential. Familiarity with data analysis tools, policy databases, and foreign language proficiency is often required, along with experience using platforms like LexisNexis or government information systems. Exceptional communication, critical thinking, and cultural awareness help analysts effectively interpret complex global issues and convey recommendations to decision-makers. These skills are crucial for developing informed policy advice that shapes international relations and supports national interests.

What is foreign policy?

Foreign policy refers to the strategies and decisions that a country uses to interact with other nations. This includes managing diplomatic relationships, negotiating treaties, promoting national interests, and addressing international issues such as trade, defense, and human rights. Governments develop foreign policy to protect their citizens, ensure security, and promote economic prosperity. Professionals in this field may work for government agencies, think tanks, or international organizations.

What is the difference between Foreign Policy vs Diplomat?

AspectForeign PolicyDiplomat
Primary FocusDeveloping and implementing a country's international strategiesRepresenting and negotiating on behalf of their country abroad
Required CredentialsInternational relations, political science, or related fields; often advanced degreesDiplomatic training, foreign service exams, relevant experience
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, think tanks, international organizationsEmbassies, consulates, international conferences
Industry UsagePolicy formulation, government strategyDiplomatic missions, international negotiations

While both roles involve international relations, Foreign Policy focuses on shaping a country's overall international strategies, whereas Diplomats are the representatives executing those policies through negotiations and diplomatic activities abroad.

How does a foreign policy analyst typically collaborate with government officials and international partners?

Foreign policy analysts often work closely with government officials, diplomats, and representatives from international organizations to provide research-based insights and recommendations. This collaboration may involve preparing briefing materials, participating in interagency meetings, and coordinating with embassies or foreign ministries. Strong communication and teamwork skills are essential, as analysts must present complex information clearly and ensure that policy decisions are informed by thorough analysis. These partnerships can also offer opportunities to broaden your professional network and learn from experts in the field.
More about Foreign Policy jobs
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What states have the most Foreign Policy jobs? States with the most job openings for Foreign Policy jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Foreign Policy jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Foreign Policy jobs are:
Foreign Policy jobs near you

Assistant, Foreign and Defense Policy Studies

AEI

Washington, DC

$50K - $54K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

AEI is seeking a full-time, in-person employee to assist the director of Foreign and Defense Policy Studies, Kori Schake. This position is both administrative and research oriented; applicants should demonstrate strong organizational abilities and an interest in foreign and defense policy. The anticipated start date for this position is as soon as possible.

This position is not supervisory and reports to the program manager of Foreign and Defense Policy Studies.

Qualified candidates should submit a resume, cover letter demonstrating their interest in AEI’s mission, academic transcript, and 500-word writing sample on foreign policy, defense strategy, national security, or civil-military relations.


  • Manage all event and media requests for the director of Foreign and Defense Policy, and coordinate the details of a range of activities including academic speaking, government and military advising, one-on-one meetings, and other commitments.
  • Prepare the director for all appearances through succinct briefings, and keep track of all engagements in a shared calendar.
  • Plan, execute, and communicate all travel logistics for events, including frequent domestic and international travel.
  • Comply with the Foreign and Defense Policy department’s reporting guidelines.
  • Schedule, communicate, and run logistics for Foreign and Defense Policy all-staff internal meetings.
  • Complete ad hoc research tasks on a variety of foreign and defense policy subjects.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions at AEI

  • The employee is regularly expected to stand, sit, talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer, telephone, and keyboard. This job requires close-up vision for computer work.
  • The employee must be able to lift up to 30 pounds.
  • The employee must be able to work in a confined area.
  • Moderate noise (e.g., from computers, phones, printers, and light traffic) is expected.
  • Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential responsibilities associated with this position.

  • A bachelor’s degree and a demonstrated interest in foreign policy (required)
  • 0–2 years of previous full-time work experience
  • Previous internship experience in events, logistics, or communications (preferred)
  • Excellent research, writing, editing, organizational, and interpersonal skills
  • Strong attention to detail and the ability to follow explicit and implied directions
  • The ability to manage a high volume of meetings and events, including coordinating more than 15 engagements per week and tracking multiple priorities simultaneously, such as booking flights and hotels and making schedules
  • The ability to identify and convey administrative information most relevant to the director while independently managing details
  • The ability to think quickly under pressure and solve problems as they arise
  • The ability to maintain confidence and communicate issues in the department to the director
  • Demonstrated humility, professionalism, and a willingness to support the needs of the director and department
  • A background in civil-military relations, American history, or national security (preferred but not essential)

Benefits
AEI offers generous benefits, including 18 days of paid leave (15 days of paid annual leave and three personal days or floating holidays); 12 days of paid sick leave; paid family leave; medical and dental coverage, in addition to a health savings account; medical and dependent care flexible spending accounts; a tuition assistance program of up to $5,200; life and disability insurance at no cost to employees; and a 403(b) retirement plan with a contribution from AEI, among other benefits. For more information, you can see a full summary of our benefits at https://www.aei.org/jobs/benefits/.

Compensation is based on a number of factors, including the position’s scope and responsibilities; a candidate’s full-time, applicable work experience; key skills and qualifications; and internal and external market considerations. The salary range for this full-time, exempt position is $50,000–$54,000. Salary is just one component of AEI’s total compensation package for employees.

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