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Policy Think Tank Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Policy Think Tank information

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$53K

$100.1K

$116K

How much do policy think tank jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 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 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.

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 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Policy Think Tank jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Policy Think Tank jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Policy Think Tank jobs in Virginia? For Policy Think Tank jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Policy Think Tank jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Policy Think Tank job openings:
Infographic showing various Policy Think Tank job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,083 per year, or $48.1 per hour.

Senior Manager - Science & Technology (S&T) Programs

Lockheed Martin Corporation

Arlington, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 3 hours ago


Lockheed Martin rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 391 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

38th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

We are seeking a highly skilled and knowledgeable S&T Senior Manager to join our Government Affairs team. This position will play a critical role in shaping Lockheed Martin initiatives within the Department of War (DoW) technology landscape. The ideal candidate will possess deep insight into DoW technology development organizations and processes, as well as a keen understanding of emerging defense technologies and missions. The manager will be a key advisor to Lockheed Martin Business Areas, enabling strategy development, opportunity identification, and stakeholder engagement throughout the development and acquisition lifecycle.
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Key Responsibilities:
Provide expert-level insight and analysis on DoW S&T organizations including OSW/Service laboratories, rapid capability offices, and commercial tech accelerators for defense.
Advise business areas on customer needs and trends to inform Internal R&D (IRAD) and Contracted R&D (CRAD) strategies. Provide customer insights for Business Areas to inform internal investments, shape and win new CRAD opportunities, and maintain customer relationships post-award.
Track and interpret trends in DoD fundamental and applied research, advanced technology development, and prototyping efforts.
Analyze and interpret the DoD budget planning, programming, budgeting, and execution (PPBE) process to inform company strategy and investment decisions.
Monitor congressional defense authorizations and appropriations, including preparing and delivering briefings to professional staff members on the Armed Services and Appropriations Committees.
Engage with defense-focused think tanks and advisory organizations to maintain awareness of key policy and strategic trends.
Identify and assess disruptive technologies relevant to national defense missions.
Prepare white papers, market assessments, customer briefings, and strategic recommendations for internal leadership.
Serve as the voice of the customer, leveraging exquisite knowledge of DoD S&T stakeholders to influence internal planning and execution.
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About Lockheed Martin

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As a global security and aerospace company, the majority of Lockheed Martin's business is with the U.S. Department of Defense and U.S. federal government agencies.The remaining portion of Lockheed Martin's business is comprised of international government and commercial sales of products, services and platforms.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Bethesda, MD, US

Year founded

1912