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Full Time Think Tank Researcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Think Tank, Inc.

Fisheries Program Analyst

Silver Spring, MD · On-site

$102K - $120K/yr

*US Citizenship Required *Full-time Onsite Position in Silver Spring, MD at NOAA Headquarters ... Position is Subject to Contract Award Position Summary Think Tank Inc. is seeking a Program Analyst ...

The Conference Board

Senior Economist

New York, NY · On-site

$100K - $127K/yr

About The Conference Board Founded in 1916, The Conference Board is the member-driven think tank ... The Senior Economist will lead the LMI, advancing research on labor dynamics, employment trends ...

Cato Institute

Marketing Coordinator

Washington, DC · On-site

$48K - $80K/yr

About Cato The Cato Institute is a public policy research organization-a think tank-dedicated to ... full-time basis. This position does not offer visa sponsorship. To Apply Qualified candidates ...

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Full Time Think Tank Researcher information

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$30K

$113.1K

$164.5K

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

As of Jul 13, 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.

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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:
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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.
Energy Policy Analyst

Energy Policy Analyst

Cato Institute

Washington, DC • On-site

$70K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

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

Job description

Description:

The Cato Institute seeks an Energy Policy Analyst to support its Energy and Environmental Policy Studies department. This role will lead research and advocacy efforts advancing energy freedom, including initiatives related to consumer-regulated electricity (CRE) at the state and federal levels. The Energy Policy Analyst will coordinate across internal teams and external partners, contribute to legislative and regulatory efforts, and help develop a long-term strategy for energy policy initiatives. This position will report to the Director of Energy and Environmental Policy Studies.


This is a hybrid position in Washington, DC.


The salary range for this role is $70,000 - $105,000 per year. Compensation is based on the successful candidate's educational background, experience, and skills.


About Cato


The Cato Institute is a public policy research organization – a think tank – dedicated to the principles of individual liberty, limited government, free markets, and peace. Its scholars and analysts conduct independent, nonpartisan research on a wide range of policy issues.


Founded in 1977, Cato owes its name to Cato’s Letters, a series of essays published in 18th-century England that presented a vision of a society free from excessive government power. Those essays inspired the architects of the American Revolution. And the simple, timeless principles of that revolution – individual liberty, limited government, and free markets – turn out to be even more powerful in today’s world of global markets and unprecedented access to information than Jefferson or Madison could have imagined. Social and economic freedom is not just the best policy for a free people; it is an indispensable framework for the future.


The Cato Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer.


Responsibilities:

  • Spearhead new multi-state and federal research and advocacy for energy deregulation.
  • Oversee Cato’s efforts to advance consumer-regulated electricity (CRE).
  • Coordinate among the policy, development, and government affairs teams at Cato.
  • Engage outside groups, including think tanks and trade associations.
  • Write and present testimony before state legislatures.
  • Contribute opinion articles to local newspapers and speak on webinars and panels.
  • Recruit new private sector partners.
  • Develop long-term strategy for CRE advocacy and other priorities.
  • Contribute as needed to broader policy initiatives, including legislative and regulatory efforts.
Requirements:

Education/ Experience

  • A bachelor’s degree in economics, political science, or a technical field; an advanced degree is preferred.
  • Experience in energy policy; deep knowledge of electricity regulation preferred.
  • An understanding of the free market approach to energy policy.
  • A strong grasp of general economic concepts.

Skills

  • Must have a strong commitment to Cato’s libertarian values.
  • Ability to work on multiple tasks independently and as part of a highly collaborative team on a time-sensitive basis.
  • A commitment to accuracy and creativity in making innovative arguments for energy market liberalization.
  • Able to lead events, including conferences and webinars.
  • Strong writing and communication skills, including testimony.
  • Comfortable presenting to various audiences in person or virtually.

To Apply

Please submit the following materials:

  • Cover letter detailing your expertise in energy policy, your philosophical interest in the organization, and why the position interests you.
  • Résumé.
  • A research product or writing sample that shows your skill in economic analysis (research reports, working papers, peer-reviewed articles, dissertations, data memos, blog posts, etc.)

Benefits

All Cato employees are provided with:

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Employer contribution to a Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Generous vacation and sick days
  • Paid parental leave
  • Employer-provided life and disability insurance
  • 401(k) employer match
  • Transit/ Parking benefits
  • Pet discount plan

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. This position does not offer visa sponsorship.