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Freelance Think Tank Graduate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AEI

Fall Intern: Book Operations

Washington, DC · On-site

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

... 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 ...

AEI

Fall Intern: Editing Services

Washington, DC · On-site

... 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 ...

AEI

Fall Intern: Asian Securities

Washington, DC · On-site

... 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 ...

AEI

Fall Intern: Asian Economics

Washington, DC · On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

... 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 ...

AEI

Fall Intern: Accounting

Washington, DC · On-site

$18 - $22.75/hr

... 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 ...

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Freelance Think Tank Graduate information

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$9

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$68

How much do freelance think tank graduate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance think tank graduate in the United States is $22.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do think tank writers make?

Freelance think tank writers typically earn between $0.10 and $1.00 per word or $20 to $100 per hour, depending on experience, expertise, and project scope. Rates can vary widely based on the complexity of the topic and the writer's reputation, with some experienced writers earning higher fees for specialized research and analysis.

Will think tanks be replaced by AI?

As a freelance think tank graduate, it is unlikely that AI will fully replace think tanks, as human expertise, critical thinking, and nuanced analysis remain essential for policy research and strategic insights. AI tools can assist in data analysis and information gathering but currently lack the judgment and contextual understanding provided by experienced professionals. The role of think tanks is expected to evolve with technology, integrating AI to enhance research processes rather than replacing human analysts entirely.

What is the difference between Freelance Think Tank Graduate vs Research Analyst?

AspectFreelance Think Tank GraduateResearch Analyst
CredentialsTypically holds a relevant degree (e.g., political science, economics)Usually requires a degree in a related field; certifications vary
Work EnvironmentIndependent, project-based, remote or flexibleOften employed by organizations, offices, or agencies
Industry UsageCommon in policy, research, and consulting sectorsWidely used across corporate, government, and nonprofit sectors

Freelance Think Tank Graduates often work independently on research projects, focusing on policy analysis and strategic insights. Research Analysts are typically employed by organizations, conducting data analysis and reporting. Both roles require strong research skills and relevant education, but Freelance Think Tank Graduates enjoy more flexibility and independence, while Research Analysts usually work within structured environments.

What are Freelance Think Tank Graduates?

Freelance Think Tank Graduates are individuals who have completed academic or training programs focused on research, policy analysis, or strategic problem-solving, and who now offer their expertise independently to organizations, institutions, or clients. Rather than working for a single think tank, they operate on a freelance basis, contributing research, analysis, and insights on a variety of projects. Their work often involves policy research, strategy development, and providing recommendations on complex issues. This flexible approach allows them to work across different sectors, including public policy, business, education, and non-profit organizations.

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

To thrive as a Think Tank Researcher, you need strong analytical abilities, research skills, and a relevant academic background such as a degree in political science, economics, or public policy. Familiarity with data analysis tools, literature databases, and statistical software (e.g., SPSS, Stata, or R) is typically required. Excellent written and verbal communication, critical thinking, and collaboration skills help you effectively present findings and work with diverse stakeholders. These competencies are crucial for producing impactful research that informs policy decisions and drives public discourse.

How to get an entry level job at a think tank?

To secure an entry-level position at a think tank, candidates should have a relevant bachelor's degree in a field like policy, economics, or political science, along with strong research and writing skills. Gaining experience through internships, volunteering, or research projects can improve prospects, and familiarity with policy analysis tools or data analysis software is beneficial.

What are the typical collaboration opportunities for a Freelance Think Tank Graduate working with established policy institutes or research teams?

As a Freelance Think Tank Graduate, you'll often collaborate with established policy institutes or research teams on specific projects, such as policy analysis, report writing, or data collection. These collaborations might involve remote teamwork, regular virtual meetings, and close coordination with subject matter experts or senior analysts. Building strong communication skills and being proactive in sharing ideas and updates are key to successful partnerships. Over time, positive collaborations can lead to expanded responsibilities or future contract opportunities within the think tank network.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A freelance think tank graduate can potentially earn $10,000 a month by offering specialized research, consulting, or analysis services independently. Success depends on expertise, reputation, and client base, often requiring strong critical thinking, communication skills, and industry knowledge. Building a high-value freelance career may involve networking and marketing skills to attract premium clients.
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Freelance Think Tank Graduate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Think Tank Graduate job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 48% Full Time, 50% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,772 per year, or $23 per hour.
Graduate Engineer Public Works

Graduate Engineer Public Works

MSA Professional Services, Inc.

Duluth, MN • On-site

$62K - $81K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Overview
MSA has an opportunity for a Graduate Engineer Public Works for our Duluth, MN office location. Public Works is the ultimate variety team, with projects ranging from streets, sewers, utilities, and more. Working primarily in the public sector, this position will largely support regional municipal clients. A Graduate Engineer tends to have a well-rounded experience with construction and design.
As a salaried engineering role, MSA will recognize your hours worked over 40 in a week through the Flex Time program.
Who we are & how we help
What does it mean to serve communities for over 100 years? It means doing the type of work that helps people raise a family, grow a business, engage with their neighbors, and enjoy a variety of unique, enduring spaces that form the fabric of "home."
MSA's roots reach back to 1919. What began with an entrepreneurial solo practitioner in Baraboo, Wisconsin, has grown into a robust and thriving company of over 400 employee owners conducting work across the country. As a 100% employee-owned firm, when we say we "own" our work, we mean it. We stand behind the quality of our designs, the integrity of our people, and the generations of client relationships we've formed based on trust, firm handshakes, and the belief that together - we can accomplish anything.
Commitment to DEIB
MSA seeks to provide a workplace where everyone can feel secure in bringing their authentic selves to work, where opportunities to learn and succeed are afforded to all, and in which diversity of perspective leads to an innovative and successful employee-owned firm.
Responsibilities
The work you will do
  • Inspect active construction work on municipal water, road/utilities, or wastewater projects
  • Construction staking and site surveys
  • Assist with CAD work and project estimations
  • Provide assistance with company initiatives that may involve different service lines
  • Preparation of plans for streets, sewers, and utilities using Civil3D software
  • Preparation of details, specifications, and bidding documents
  • Complete project administration for municipal projects, including attending client meetings
  • Ability to get training and mentoring on project management and client liaison duties
  • Other duties as assigned

Qualifications
What you bring
Skills & Knowledge / Education & Experience:
  • Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering (or related) required
  • Successful completion of Fundamental of Engineering exam preferred
  • A valid driver's license required
  • Previous civil engineering intern or co-op experience required
  • This position requires you to have authorization to work in the United States for any employer. We will not provide sponsorship for this position.

The salary for this position ranges from $62,400 to $81,400 per year, commensurate with experience. Higher compensation within this range will be paid to candidates with significant experience and exceptional qualifications.
Benefits
Why MSA? We're glad you asked!
  • Better Together - A collaborative work environment that promotes open doors, new ideas and honest opinions.
  • Multi-disciplinary Opportunities - As multi-talented people in a multi-disciplinary firm, we encourage everyone to follow their interests, seek new experiences and apply their skills where they feel most impactful.
  • We've Got Your Back - Support when you need it, independence when you don't. We're 400+ team members strong, operating as one cohesive MSA.
  • Passion & Purpose - We're passionate about what we do and proud of it! Join us to share inspirations, "geek out" and think big.
  • Pay & Perks - We offer competitive industry pay and a variety of perks - just a few of the things that make us uniquely MSA.
  • Communities of Practice - Our CoPs are our company think tanks and idea generators, the perfect means to regularly share, collaborate and learn together.
  • Work-Life Integration - Life doesn't stop when the work day begins. MSA supports our employees as professionals, parents, citizens and friends - with the understanding and flexibility to meet your obligations and balance your time.
  • Commitment to Learning - We support the professional aspirations of our employees with ongoing training options, tuition reimbursement opportunities, and the technology to keep us connected, creative and competitive.
  • Community Engagement - We give back to the communities in which we live, work and play. MSA employee owners are volunteers, educators, STEM outreach participants and event attendees, supported by dedicated corporate sponsorship and donations initiatives.

There's more! Eligible employees will also enjoy the following benefits:
  • Quality Insurance Options - Medical, dental and vision coverage for you, your spouse or domestic partner and eligible dependents
  • Paid Time Off - All full-time employees will receive, at minimum, 17 days (that's 3+ weeks!) of paid time off in the first year alone.
  • Paid Holidays - MSA offers time off pay for 8 holidays in every calendar year.
  • Paid Parental Leave - Both parents will receive 2 weeks of paid time off and birth parents are eligible for additional paid time off under MSA's Short Term Paid Leave. The paid 2 weeks of time also applies to adoption and foster care placement.
  • Supplemental Insurance - MSA pays 100% for all employees to have life insurance, long-term disability insurance and short-term disability insurance.
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) - MSA is an ESOP S-Corporation, which means that our company is 100% owned by us! Through the ESOP, eligible employees receive MSA stock in the form of company shares as a percentage of compensation, at no cost to the employee.
  • 401k Retirement Savings Plan - Employees can also choose to participate in a 401k plan, with a generous employer match that is immediately 100% vested.
  • Short Term Incentive (STIP) - This program rewards employees who meet performance goals with a one-time annual STIP payment as a percentage of their eligible compensation - recognition of individual accomplishments and achieving organizational goals. STIP payments are awarded if MSA reaches its corporate financial plan for the year.

MSA is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. At MSA, we value a diverse, inclusive workforce and we provide equal employment opportunity for all applicants and employees. All qualified applicants for employment will be considered without regard to an individual's race, color, sex, gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, physical or mental disability, medical condition, family care status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local laws. If you are unable to submit your application because of incompatible assistive technology or a disability, please contact us at hr@msa-ps.com
Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer

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