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Policy Think Tank Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Amazon

Manager, Public Policy

Arlington, VA · On-site

$136K - $166K/yr

The Manager, Public Policy will serve in a liaison capacity between Public Policy and multiple ... This position will also be responsible for leading engagements with trade associations, think tanks ...

Halvik

Jr. Strategic Planner

Arlington, VA · On-site

... think tank, academic, and policy events relevant to the Army National Guard strategic postureDraft concise information papers and executive summaries capturing policy changes, risk and ...

Halvik

Jr. Strategic Planner

Arlington, VA · On-site

$100K - $110K/yr

Track and monitor think tank, academic, and policy events relevant to the Army National Guard strategic posture * Draft concise information papers and executive summaries capturing policy changes ...

IQVIA

VP, Public Policy

Falls Church, VA · On-site

S. public policy and government affairs strategy. This senior leader will operate at the ... think tanks, and industry coalitions. * Lead high-impact advocacy efforts, including the ...

IQVIA, Inc.

VP, Public Policy

Falls Church, VA · On-site

S. public policy and government affairs strategy. This senior leader will operate at the ... think tanks, and industry coalitions. * Lead high-impact advocacy efforts, including the ...

IQVIA

VP, Public Policy

Falls Church, VA

S. public policy and government affairs strategy. This senior leader will operate at the ... think tanks, and industry coalitions. * Lead high-impact advocacy efforts, including the ...

Halvik

Jr. Strategic Planner

Arlington, VA

Track and monitor think tank, academic, and policy events relevant to the Army National Guard strategic posture * Draft concise information papers and executive summaries capturing policy changes ...

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Policy Think Tank information

See Virginia salary details

$53K

$100.1K

$116K

How much do policy think tank jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for policy think tank in Virginia is $100,083.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,300.00 and $115,500.00 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.

More about Policy Think Tank jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Policy Think Tank jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Policy Think Tank jobs in Virginia are:

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For Policy Think Tank jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Policy Think Tank jobs in Virginia are:

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Cities in Virginia with the most Policy Think Tank job openings:

Policy Think Tank jobs near you
Infographic showing various Policy Think Tank job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,083 per year, or $48.1 per hour.

Potomac Institute Internship Program (Fall Semester Due Date: July 31, 2026)

Arlington, VA

Potomac Institute for Policy Studies
Social Sciences and Humanities Research • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Potomac Institute for Policy Studiesexternal

Internship

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Overview:

The Potomac Institute for Policy Studies is an independent, 501(c)(3), nonprofit science and technology policy think tank that has a robust andenduringinternship program. Excellence in research and objective analysis is the motto for the program. The Potomac Institute Internship Program (for undergraduate, graduate, or recently graduated students) hostsscholarswith a variety of academic backgrounds that relate to the science, technology, and national security missions of the Institute. The Institute strives to provide a versatile experience for each internship participant. Interns will be assigned toprovide directsupporttostaff, Senior Fellows, and/or academic programs within PIPS. Some unique qualities of the program areacknowledgements in publications,networking, academic credit, as well asaccess toin-house seminars, events,and conferences.

Internship Description:

Internshave the opportunity toconduct fast-paced research on Institute mission areas.You will learnand developvaluableprofessionalskills to improve your research, writing, and analysis that are applicableacross career fields. You will coordinate your schedule with your assigned scholar and are expected to be at the Institute two days per week. Interns will work16-20 hours per week during the fall/spring and 28-32 hours per week during the summer.The internship typically lasts the duration of an academicsemester,but exceptions can be made in certain circumstances.


Intern Duties:

Conducting research as directed; Compiling bibliographies; Collecting and assembling data; Copy editing and proofreading; Event planning and support; Attending Congressional hearings and other think tank events; As well asprovidinga full range of administrative support. (estimated50% research, 50% administrativesupport)

Requirements:

3.5 or higher GPA with a background or interest in political science, national security, defense, science and technology, economics, international affairs, public policy, and law are preferred, though others accepted. Candidates should have relevant research, writing, and editing experience, excellent organization and communication skills, strong MS Office skills, and the ability to prioritize a heavy workload.

Must be aUS Citizenand able topass a backgroundinvestigationin order toobtain asecurity clearance.

Deadlines:
This is a highly competitive and sought after position. Failure tosubmitthe materialslisted belowwill result in disqualification from moving to the next round.Failure tosubmit an application by the deadline will result in disqualification.

Complete application packages should be sent by the following deadlines:


Spring- (January to May) October 13
Summer- (May to September) March 16
Fall- (September to December) July 31

Applicants will need:
1. A letter of interest. In your letter, be sure to reference relevant Institute research areas and preferred scholarassignment.
2. Current resume
3. One to two-page writing sample
4. Unofficial transcript
5. Two (2) letters of recommendation. This does not meanincludeareferencespage.

Academic Credit:

We are more than happy toassiststudents with receiving academic credit through their respected Institution upon successful completion of the internship. Some educational institutionsrequireprior approval before the start of an internship for academic credit. It is the responsibility of the student to check with their institution to be sure they meet any requirements before they accept a position.

This positioncomplies withtheUS Departmentof Labor and theFair Labor Standard Act.

Apply