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Full Time Think Tank Researcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Planetlabs

Media Programs Research Lead

San Francisco, CA · Hybrid

$90K - $112K/yr

The MTTP works with reporters and subject matter experts at think tanks to use Planet's images and ... research customers and partners * Support rapid response efforts during crisis news events with ...

Groundwork Collaborative

Policy Analyst

Washington, DC · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Reports to: SVP of Policy and Advocacy Status: Full time; non-exempt Location: Washington D.C. This ... Quantitative economic research, such as for an economic policy research organization/think tank ...

Groundwork Collaborative

Policy Analyst

Washington, DC · On-site

Reports to: SVP of Policy and Advocacy Status: Full time; non-exempt Location: Washington D.C. This ... Quantitative economic research, such as for an economic policy research organization/think tank ...

Think Tank, Inc.

Economist

Silver Spring, MD · Remote

Position is Subject to Contract Award Position Overview Think Tank Inc. may seek one (1) Economist ... If exercised, this is a full-time position (40 hours/week; approximately 2,080 hours/year)

Planet

Satellite Imagery Storytelling Lead

Arlington, VA · On-site

$79K - $112K/yr

Planet is seeking a Media Programs Research Lead to join its Communications team in Arlington ... A minimum of 4 years in a newsroom or think tank and proficiency with GIS tools are essential. The ...

Think Tank, Inc.

Gear Liasion

Silver Spring, MD · On-site

*US Citizenship Required *Full-time Remote Position with field work required *Position is Subject to Contract Award Position Overview Think Tank Inc. is seeking one (1) Gear Liaison to work with the ...

Hudson Institute, Inc.

Research Associate

Washington, DC · On-site

$52K - $56K/yr

This is a full-time position based out of Hudson's Washington, DC office, reporting to the senior fellow. About Hudson Institute Hudson Institute is a research-focused public policy think tank ...

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All JobsThink Tank Researcher JobsFull Time Think Tank Researcher Jobs

Full Time Think Tank Researcher information

See salary details

$30K

$113.1K

$164.5K

How much do full time think tank researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for full time think tank researcher in the United States is $113,102.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $154,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Full Time Think Tank Researcher do?

A Full Time Think Tank Researcher conducts in-depth analysis on policy issues, gathers and interprets data, and produces reports or recommendations to inform public policy and decision-making. They often collaborate with other experts, attend conferences, and present findings to stakeholders such as government officials, academics, or the public. Their work typically focuses on areas like economics, social policy, international relations, or technology, depending on the think tank's mission.

What are some common challenges faced by full-time think tank researchers when balancing independent research with collaborative projects?

Full-time think tank researchers often juggle a mix of independent research and collaborative projects, which can present unique challenges. Balancing deep dives into specialized topics with the need to coordinate with multidisciplinary teams requires strong time management and clear communication. Researchers may find it challenging to align their own interests with broader organizational priorities or to integrate feedback from multiple stakeholders. However, these dynamics also offer opportunities to broaden expertise and contribute to impactful, policy-relevant work. Building strong relationships with colleagues and maintaining flexibility can help researchers navigate these challenges successfully.

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

To thrive as a Full Time Think Tank Researcher, you generally need strong analytical skills, expertise in data analysis, and a relevant advanced degree (often in public policy, economics, or a related field). Familiarity with statistical software (such as SPSS, Stata, or R), research databases, and academic citation tools is essential. Exceptional written and verbal communication, intellectual curiosity, and the ability to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams are vital soft skills. These competencies ensure rigorous research, credible policy recommendations, and effective dissemination of findings to stakeholders.

What is the difference between Full Time Think Tank Researcher vs Policy Analyst?

AspectFull Time Think Tank ResearcherPolicy Analyst
CredentialsMaster's or PhD in political science, public policy, or related fieldsSimilar credentials, often with advanced degrees in related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch-focused, think tank offices, policy institutesGovernment agencies, NGOs, consulting firms
Industry UsagePrimarily in research institutions and policy centersIn government, advocacy groups, and consulting

Both roles require advanced education and involve policy research, but Full Time Think Tank Researchers focus on in-depth analysis within research institutions, while Policy Analysts often work in government or advocacy settings applying research to policy development.

More about Full Time Think Tank Researcher jobs
What cities are hiring for Full Time Think Tank Researcher jobs? Cities with the most Full Time Think Tank Researcher job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Think Tank Researcher jobs? The most popular types of Think Tank Researcher jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Full Time Think Tank Researcher jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Full Time Think Tank Researcher jobs are:
Full Time Think Tank Researcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Full Time Think Tank Researcher job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,102 per year, or $54.4 per hour.

Media Programs Research Lead

Planetlabs

San Francisco, CA • Hybrid

$90K - $112K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

About the Role

The Media Programs Research Lead will join Planet’s Communications team to support the operations of the Media and Think Tank Program (MTTP). The MTTP works with reporters and subject matter experts at think tanks to use Planet’s images and products to report on disasters, environmental stories, geopolitical events, and other news of global interest. This person will collaborate internally with a broad range of Planet stakeholders, including Marketing, technical and NGO-focused teams, as well as externally with journalists and experts to provide insights into, and on top of, Planet data.

The ideal candidate is well‑versed in geopolitics and has experience working with satellite data, is curious with an eye for compelling stories, and enjoys developing creative approaches to visualizing and explaining complex subjects.

This is a full‑time, hybrid role which will require you to work from our San‑Francisco, CA or D.C. office in Arlington, VA 3 days per week.

Impact You’ll Own
  • Proactively identify and develop stories relevant to current events that showcase the value of Planet’s data and analytic products
  • Analyze satellite data as well as other earth observation data to document and explain events of general interest
  • Collaborate with Communications and Data Visualization teams on ideas for proactive storytelling and image packages to send to media and research customers and partners
  • Support rapid response efforts during crisis news events with image identification and analysis
  • Build and maintain relationships with reporters, analysts, and subject matter experts
What You Bring
  • 4+ years experience working in a newsroom, think tank, or as a data analyst
  • Experience analyzing and interpreting satellite imagery
  • Experience with GIS tools and/or Adobe Photoshop
  • Experience supporting multiple projects simultaneously
  • Experience working collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders
  • Ability to work in a dynamic environment across multiple time zones
  • Excellent written and interpersonal communication skills; fluent in written and spoken English
What Makes You Stand Out
  • Experience working with open source investigative tools, datasets and methods
  • Ability and comfort communicating results to external audiences
  • Relationships within think tank and press communities
Benefits While Working at Planet
  • Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision plans
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) with a company contribution
  • Generous Paid Time Off in addition to holidays and company‑wide days off
  • 16 Weeks of Paid Parental Leave
  • Wellness Program and Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Home Office ReimbursementMonthly Phone and Internet Reimbursement
  • Tuition Reimbursement and access to LinkedIn Learning
  • Equity
  • Commuter Benefits (if local to an office)
  • Volunteering Paid Time Off
Compensation

The US base salary range for this full‑time position at the commencement of employment is listed below. Additionally, this role might be eligible for discretionary short‑term and long‑term incentives (bonus and equity). The final salary range is determined by job‑related experience, skills and location. The range displays our typical hiring range for new hire salaries in US locations only. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process.

San Francisco Salary Range: $90,200 — $112,700 USD

US National Salary Range: $79,300 — $99,100 USD

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

EEO Statement

Planet is committed to building a community where everyone belongs and we invite people from all backgrounds to apply. Planet is an equal opportunity employer, and committed to providing employment opportunities regardless of race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding, age, sexual orientation, military or veteran status, or any other protected classification, in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.

Accommodations

Planet is an inclusive community and we know that everyone has their own needs. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation during the hiring process, please reach out to accommodations@planet.com or contact your recruiter with your request. Your message will be confidential and we will be happy to assist you.

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