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Policy Think Tank Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hudson Institute

Research Associate

Washington, DC · On-site

$52K - $56K/yr

About Hudson Institute Hudson Institute is a research-focused public policy think tank headquartered in Washington, DC, dedicated to promoting American leadership for a secure, free, and prosperous ...

Hudson Institute

External Affairs Associate

Washington, DC · On-site

$52K - $56K/yr

About Hudson Institute Hudson Institute is a research-focused public policy think tank headquartered in Washington, DC, dedicated to promoting American leadership for a secure, free, and prosperous ...

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How much do policy think tank jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 20, 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 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive at a policy think tank, and why are they important?

Success at a policy think tank requires strong research and analytical skills, a solid educational background in public policy or a related field, and expertise in policy analysis. Familiarity with data analysis tools, statistical software (like STATA or R), and policy research databases is typically expected. Exceptional written and verbal communication, critical thinking, and the ability to collaborate across disciplines are standout soft skills. These competencies are crucial for producing rigorous research, influencing policy debates, and effectively communicating findings to stakeholders.

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.
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Policy Think Tank jobs near you
Research Associate

Research Associate

Hudson Institute

Washington, DC • On-site

$52K - $56K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Description

Hudson Institute seeks a research associate to support a senior fellow with their policy program focused on US national security, grand strategy, industrial policy, and defense industrial base related issues. Responsibilities include research, writing, editing, program management, and administrative assistance. This is a full-time position based out of Hudson's Washington, DC office, reporting to the senior fellow.

About Hudson Institute

Hudson Institute is a research-focused public policy think tank headquartered in Washington, DC, dedicated to promoting American leadership for a secure, free, and prosperous future. For more than half a century, Hudson Institute has been challenging conventional thinking by developing new ideas and practical solutions to shape critical foreign and domestic policy decisions.

Responsibilities

  • Conducts high-quality research and analysis on a variety of national security and US foreign and domestic policy issues, with an emphasis on grand strategy, industrial policy and defense industrial base related issues.
  • Assists in drafting and editing op-eds, policy memos, reports, and other scholarship.
  • Manages the daily events and activities associated with the senior fellow's policy program, including maintaining target audience lists, organizing meetings and events, taking notes at events attended or hosted by the senior fellow, and coordinating with colleagues on institutional priorities. 
  • Manages the senior fellow's calendar, assisting with travel bookings and logistics, and supports meetings and events at Hudson and elsewhere involving the senior fellow.
  • With an eye toward relevant developments in foreign affairs, among policymakers, and in the news cycle, proactively considers and pitches opportunities to the senior fellow to influence policy debates.
  • Manages interns that work with the senior fellow, including interviewing interns, managing their ongoing workloads, and providing feedback and general supervision. 
  • Collaborates with colleagues on various projects and objectives, as new priorities develop.

Requirements

  • Commitment to Hudson Institute's mission and supporting the work of the Institute's experts and staff.
  • US citizenship.
  • Bachelor's degree in political science, history, economics, philosophy, or other relevant fields.
  • Excellent writing, research, speaking, editing, and project management skills.
  • A professional and tactful demeanor and ability to work closely and effectively with others-including Hudson's senior management, experts, and staff.
  • Creative and entrepreneurial mindset.
  • Acute attention to detail.
  • Commitment to acting with integrity and the utmost professionalism.

Compensation and Benefits

  • Salary: $52,000 - $56,000 per year
  • Health insurance (medical, dental, and vision coverage)
  • Retirement savings plan with employer matching contributions
  • Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays
  • Life and disability insurance
  • Paid parental and family leave
  • Commuter benefits

Application Instructions

  • Please submit a personal resume and cover letter. Cover letters should be written by the applicant-not by generative AI.

Apply