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Policy Think Tank Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Prestige Scientific

Executive Director

Manhattan, NY · On-site

We have an exciting opportunity for an Executive Director with our partner, a newly established healthcare policy think tank. This role offers a rare opportunity to step into a true institution ...

ford agency

Office Operations Advisor

Washington, DC · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

The Ford Agency is actively seeking a proactive and detail-oriented Office Operations Advisor for a respected DC-based public policy think tank. This role combines office management and staff culture ...

AEI

Marketing Operations Assistant

Washington, DC · On-site

Overview The American Enterprise Institute (AEI), a public policy think tank in Washington, DC, seeks a full-time, in-person, collaborative team player to become our next marketing operations ...

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Policy Think Tank information

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$53.5K

$100.9K

$117K

How much do policy think tank jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for policy think tank in the United States is $100,949.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,000.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a policy think tank?

A policy think tank is a group of individuals who research public policy issues, interact with various ideas on how to improve policies, and come up with recommended solutions. It is a place to process ideas scientifically, research a topic, analyze a strategy, and create an agenda. A policy think tank may interact with advocacy groups but ultimately aims to generate new ideas rather than promoting reasons why policy change is needed. It can cover a wide variety of topics and works to make a difference in the community. Policy think tanks may utilize universities and scholars. They can also be a for-profit group funded by a business or organization.

What is a policy think tank?

A policy think tank is an organization that conducts research and analysis on public policy issues. These organizations aim to inform and influence government decision-making, public debate, and policy development through studies, reports, and recommendations. Think tanks may focus on a range of topics including economics, social policy, defense, and the environment. They often employ researchers, analysts, and subject matter experts to provide evidence-based insights. Funding can come from governments, private donors, or foundations, and their work is often published for public or governmental use.

What are some common challenges faced when working in a policy think tank environment?

Working in a policy think tank often involves juggling multiple projects with tight deadlines and adapting to rapidly evolving policy landscapes. Professionals must balance in-depth research with clear, accessible communication for diverse audiences, including policymakers, stakeholders, and the public. Collaboration is key, as teams frequently include experts from different disciplines, requiring strong interpersonal and project management skills. Additionally, staying up-to-date with current events and legislative changes is essential to ensure that research and recommendations remain relevant and impactful.

What is the difference between Policy Think Tank vs Policy Analyst?

AspectPolicy Think TankPolicy Analyst
Required CredentialsMaster's degree or higher in public policy, political science, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's degree in similar fields
Work EnvironmentResearch institutes, non-profit organizations, or think tanks focused on policy researchGovernment agencies, consulting firms, or advocacy groups
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by policy research organizations to develop and analyze policiesEmployed by government or private sector to analyze and recommend policies

Policy Think Tanks and Policy Analysts both work within the policy development sphere, often requiring similar educational backgrounds. Think tanks focus on conducting research and producing policy reports, while Policy Analysts typically analyze existing policies and provide recommendations. Both roles are essential in shaping public policy but differ mainly in scope and organizational setting.

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Policy Think Tank jobs near you
Infographic showing various Policy Think Tank job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,949 per year, or $48.5 per hour.

Executive Director

Manhattan, NY • On-site

Prestige Scientific
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Prestige Scientificexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

We have an exciting opportunity for an Executive Director with our partner, a newly established healthcare policy think tank.
This role offers a rare opportunity to step into a true institution-building mandate, where you'll have end-to-end ownership of shaping the organization's identity, influence, and long-term trajectory.
This critical hire will expand the organization's impact significantly across healthcare policy, regulatory reform, and public discourse while building something from the ground up, developing new capabilities in organizational leadership, strategic communications, coalition-building, and agenda-setting at a national level.

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