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Political Think Tank Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Amazon

Manager, Public Policy

Arlington, VA · On-site

$136K - $166K/yr

This position will also be responsible for leading engagements with trade associations, think tanks ... Law, Political Science, Public Policy, Public Affairs, Economic Development) - 8+ years of ...

IQVIA, Inc.

VP, Public Policy

Falls Church, VA · On-site

... think tanks, and industry coalitions. * Lead high-impact advocacy efforts, including the ... Bachelor's degree in government, public policy, political science, or related field * Advanced ...

IQVIA

VP, Public Policy

Falls Church, VA

... think tanks, and industry coalitions. * Lead high-impact advocacy efforts, including the ... Bachelor's degree in government, public policy, political science, or related field * Advanced ...

IQVIA

VP, Public Policy

Falls Church, VA

... think tanks, and industry coalitions. * Lead high-impact advocacy efforts, including the ... Bachelor's degree in government, public policy, political science, or related field * Advanced ...

All JobsPolitical Think Tank JobsPolitical Think Tank Jobs in Virginia

Political Think Tank information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a political think tank, and why are they important?

To thrive at a political think tank, you need strong analytical skills, research experience, and a solid background in political science, public policy, or a related field. Familiarity with data analysis software, policy research databases, and presentation tools is often required. Exceptional written and verbal communication, teamwork, and adaptability set candidates apart in fast-moving policy environments. These capabilities are crucial for producing influential research, collaborating with diverse stakeholders, and effectively shaping public debate.

What typical responsibilities can I expect if I join a political think tank?

At a political think tank, your daily work may involve conducting in-depth policy research, analyzing legislative developments, writing reports or policy briefs, and presenting findings to various audiences. You’ll often collaborate with subject matter experts, policy analysts, and external partners to produce well-informed, actionable recommendations. Think tank environments are intellectually demanding and collaborative, valuing both independent initiative and teamwork. Over time, you can grow into roles with greater project leadership, policy influence, or public engagement, especially as you develop expertise in specific policy areas.

What is a political think tank?

A political think tank job involves researching, analyzing, and developing policies on various political, economic, and social issues. Professionals in these roles contribute to reports, policy recommendations, and advocacy efforts to influence public policy and government decisions. They often collaborate with academics, policymakers, and stakeholders to shape discussions on key issues. Depending on the organization, roles may include research analysts, policy advisors, or communications specialists.

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Political Think Tank jobs in Virginia?

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

What job categories do people searching Political Think Tank jobs in Virginia look for?

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

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Political Think Tank jobs?

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

Political Think Tank jobs near you
Infographic showing various Political Think Tank job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

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

Potomac Institute for Policy Studies

Arlington, VA

Internship

Re-posted 5 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