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International Development Jobs in Washington, DC

Program Associate Internship

Washington, DC · On-site

$17 - $22.75/hr

An internship at SID-US is an invaluable opportunity for anyone interested in pursuing a career in international development. As a Program Associate, you will meet high-level professionals with years ...

Showing results 21-40

International Development information

See Washington, DC salary details

$37.4K

$87.7K

$150.6K

How much do international development jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for international development in Washington, DC is $87,706.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,300.00 and $102,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is international development?

International development is a field focused on improving the economic, social, and political conditions of countries around the world, particularly in regions facing poverty or instability. Professionals in this area work with governments, NGOs, and international organizations to create programs that promote sustainable growth, health, education, and equality. The goal is to reduce global disparities and help communities achieve long-term prosperity through collaboration and innovation.

What are the qualifications to get an international development job?

The qualifications for international development jobs vary by position. Private organizations and NGOs usually ask for a bachelor's degree and several years of relevant experience. On the other hand, official programs like USAID provide contracts for jobs, and they care less about education and experience and more about your ability to complete the job. Regardless of your position, fulfilling the duties and responsibilities of a job in international development requires excellent communication skills, good teaching skills, and the ability to work as part of a large, coordinated effort to impact a region. The emphasis on developing countries means that fluent speakers of uncommon languages are often in demand, so the ability to converse with groups that do not speak English can set you apart from other applicants.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in international development, and why are they important?

To thrive in International Development, you need a background in areas such as international relations, economics, or public policy, often supported by relevant degrees and experience in global project management. Familiarity with project management tools, data analysis software, and knowledge of donor compliance systems is highly valued, along with certifications like PMP or specialized humanitarian training. Strong cross-cultural communication, adaptability, and collaborative problem-solving skills help professionals excel in diverse, often challenging environments. These skills and qualities are essential for effectively managing complex projects, fostering partnerships, and achieving sustainable development outcomes across varied international contexts.

What are some common challenges professionals face when working in international development roles?

Professionals in international development often encounter challenges such as navigating cultural differences, working in resource-limited or remote settings, and adapting to rapidly changing project requirements. Collaboration with local partners and stakeholders can be complex, requiring strong communication and negotiation skills. Additionally, managing multiple projects across different time zones and monitoring impact can be demanding, but these experiences also provide valuable opportunities for professional growth and cross-cultural exchange.

What is the difference between International Development vs International Relations?

AspectInternational DevelopmentInternational Relations
Required CredentialsBachelor's or master's in development studies, international relations, or related fieldsBachelor's or master's in political science, international relations, or related fields
Work EnvironmentNon-profit organizations, NGOs, government agencies focused on development projectsGovernment agencies, think tanks, diplomatic services, policy institutes
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in development-focused organizations and NGOsPrimarily in government, diplomatic, and policy sectors

International Development and International Relations share overlapping skills and educational backgrounds but differ mainly in focus. International Development emphasizes on-the-ground projects to improve living conditions, while International Relations concentrates on diplomacy, policy, and global political dynamics. Both fields often collaborate but serve different primary objectives.

Is it hard to get a job in international development?

Getting a job in international development can be competitive, often requiring relevant education such as a degree in international relations, development studies, or related fields, along with experience in project management, research, or fieldwork. Fluency in multiple languages and knowledge of international organizations or policies can also improve job prospects.

What are international development jobs?

International development jobs involve working to improve economic growth, health, education, and social conditions in developing countries. These roles often require skills in project management, cross-cultural communication, and knowledge of global issues, with many positions based in the field or in international organizations.

What can I do with an international development degree?

An international development degree prepares individuals for roles in NGOs, government agencies, and international organizations focused on global aid, policy, and sustainable development. Common positions include project manager, policy analyst, program coordinator, and researcher, often requiring skills in cross-cultural communication, project management, and knowledge of development tools. Opportunities may also involve fieldwork, grant writing, and working with diverse stakeholders worldwide.

What are the most commonly searched types of International Development jobs in Washington, DC?

The most popular types of International Development jobs in Washington, DC are:

What are popular job titles related to International Development jobs in Washington, DC?

For International Development jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various International Development job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Internship, 69% Full Time, and 26% Part Time. Highlights an 84% In-person, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,706 per year, or $42.2 per hour.

$56K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description


For this junior -level position, IDG is seeking a passionate, self-driven, and highly organized individual who is willing to learn, take ownership over assigned tasks, engage in new challenges, and quickly "switch gears" and manage multiple priorities. This position reports to the Senior Specialist or Manager. This is a full-time position (40 hours per week) on a hybrid schedule with in-office days Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays in IDG's Arlington, VA office and remote on Mondays and Fridays.
The Sr Associate will participate in new business initiatives and under the guidance of a Proposal Manager and the Director of New Business, will serve in numerous supporting roles for proposal teams, including serving as a proposal associate and/or engaging in one or more of the following areas: past performance write-ups, corporate capabilities, resume formatting, expatriate and local personnel recruitment, technical writing support, technical research, cost proposal support, and managing communications with potential and selected subcontractors. The Sr Associate will also be expected to engage in pre-RFP capture activities and research and support other ad hoc new business activities as requested.
The Sr Associate will also provide support for projects from implementation through closeout. This individual will support a varied portfolio of projects around the world and will work under the guidance of a Senior Specialist or Manager to undertake various financial, contractual, management, and technical assistance tasks. This includes the application of current U.S.G, State, local and host country regulations and laws as well as IDG policies and procedures to contract implementation. The Sr Associate will be expected to review and process monthly field office expenses accurately, draft client approval requests, assist in formatting and copy-editing client deliverables and other project documents, liaise with and support field office operations and finance staff, assist with budget monitoring and financial management, book and manage travel logistics for employees and consultants (airfare, hotels, ground transportation, etc.), and engage in other duties as assigned. The salary range is: $52,700 to $56,950
Requirements
• A minimum of 2-3 years of international development, state or local government project work experience required; previous project coordination experience a plus (operations, logistics, administrative support, etc.).
• Technical interest and/or background (including academic coursework) in IDG areas of expertise strongly preferred: private sector development, international trade, monitoring and evaluation, public financial management, gender and social inclusion, economics, etc. (see IDG's website for all technical areas).
• Familiarity with USG, State, Local government or other donor-funded projects is a plus.
• Proficiency in MS Office, especially Word and Excel; strong Excel and quantitative skills preferred.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills with demonstrated attention to detail.
• Good interpersonal skills, ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong organization and prioritization skills.
• Entrepreneurial attitude required to assist business and systems growth.
• Experience living or working in developing countries a plus.
• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field required: international development, economics, public administration, etc.
• Fluency in French, Spanish, Russian, or Arabic is desirable but not required.
Benefits
  • Health Benefits: Medical, Dental and Vision
  • 401k
  • Hybrid work schedule
  • Commuter benefits:
  • Free on-site parking, or
  • Monthly Metro transit subsidy
  • On-site fitness center: Complimentary access to the building's gym facilities.
  • Professional development: Free access to IDG's Learning Management System (LMS) with over 90,000 online courses available to support continuous learning and skill development.