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Think Tank Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Paylocity

Marketing Innovations Associate

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

This team operates as an internal think tank and execution group, focused on driving innovation, experimenting with new ideas, and rethinking how marketing shows up in the market. This is a hands-on ...

Paylocity

Marketing Innovations Associate

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

This team operates as an internal think tank and execution group, focused on driving innovation, experimenting with new ideas, and rethinking how marketing shows up in the market. This is a hands-on ...

Illinois Policy

Development Intern

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This internship offers a hands-on opportunity to learn how a leading state-based think tank engages donors, advances its mission, and grows a world-class development program. About the Role The ...

The Menta Education Group

Paraprofessional

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.97 - $27.06/hr

Areas of learning may include CEO conference table for group work and analysis, a Think Tank where students collaborate in small groups learning to be productive team members, and Socratic Discourse ...

The Menta Education Group

Paraprofessional

Chicago, IL

$17.97 - $27.06/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Areas of learning may include CEO conference table for group work and analysis, a Think Tank where students collaborate in small groups learning to be productive team members, and Socratic Discourse ...

The Menta Education Group

Paraprofessional

Oak Park, IL · On-site

$17.97 - $27.06/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Areas of learning may include CEO conference table for group work and analysis, a Think Tank where students collaborate in small groups learning to be productive team members, and Socratic Discourse ...

The University of Chicago

Director, AQLI

Chicago, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Minimum 5-7 years of relevant experience in the global air quality landscape, such as atmospheric science, environmental epidemiology, environmental economics, policy, think tank, nonprofit, or ...

PepsiCo

Warehouse Automation Manager

Elk Grove Village, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are a think tank, bringing our ideas into action and are determined to find ways to drive efficiencies, improve processes and achieve the highest level of safety... all while meeting the demands ...

University of Chicago Library

Director, AQLI

Chicago, IL

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Minimum 5-7 years of relevant experience in the global air quality landscape, such as atmospheric science, environmental epidemiology, environmental economics, policy, think tank, nonprofit, or ...

PepsiCo

Warehouse Automation Manager

Elk Grove Village, IL

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are a think tank, bringing our ideas into action and are determined to find ways to drive efficiencies, improve processes and achieve the highest level of safety... all while meeting the demands ...

The University Of Chicago

Director, AQLI

Chicago, IL · On-site

$100 - $120/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Minimum 5-7 years of relevant experience in the global air quality landscape, such as atmospheric science, environmental epidemiology, environmental economics, policy, think tank, nonprofit, or ...

PepsiCo

Warehouse Automation Manager

Elk Grove Village, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are a think tank, bringing our ideas into action and are determined to find ways to drive efficiencies, improve processes and achieve the highest level of safety... all while meeting the demands ...

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All JobsThink Tank JobsThink Tank Jobs in Chicago, IL

Think Tank information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$14

$20

$34

How much do think tank jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for think tank in Chicago, IL is $20.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $21.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do think tanks do?

Think tanks are organizations dedicated to research and analysis on public policy issues. They gather experts to develop ideas, provide insights, and offer recommendations to policymakers, businesses, and the public. Their work often includes publishing reports, hosting events, and engaging in advocacy to influence decision-making on topics such as economics, security, healthcare, and education. Think tanks can be independent, affiliated with universities, or associated with political parties, and they play a key role in shaping public debate.

What is a think tank?

A think tank is an institute or organization that performs advocacy and research on one or more topics. Think tanks frequently address topics like proposed political and social policies, economic matters, use of technology, and culture. The structure and goals of a think tank often reflect its source of support, which can be anything from a non-profit to a government-, corporation-, or university-sponsored guarantee of support. Think tanks range from large and diversified groups to smaller setups focused on specific and specialized topics. Some think tanks provide help with writing legislation, finding experts on particular issues, determining what topics should be studied, or bringing people together.

What is the difference between Think Tank vs Policy Analyst?

AspectThink TankPolicy Analyst
Required CredentialsAdvanced degrees in political science, public policy, or related fieldsSimilar credentials, often with a focus on specific policy areas
Work EnvironmentResearch-focused, often non-profit or think tank organizationsGovernment agencies, NGOs, or consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsageUsed for research, policy development, and advocacyUsed for analyzing, developing, and recommending policies

While both roles require advanced education and involve policy work, a Think Tank primarily conducts research and advocacy within specialized organizations, whereas a Policy Analyst often works within government or consulting firms to analyze and develop policies based on research findings.

How do I get a job at a think tank?

To get a job at a think tank, candidates typically need a strong background in policy analysis, research, or related fields, often demonstrated through relevant degrees or experience. Building expertise in specific policy areas, developing research skills, and networking with professionals in the field can improve chances. Familiarity with data analysis tools and a track record of published work or policy contributions are also valuable.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in think tanks, and how can new hires best navigate them?

Professionals in think tanks often face challenges such as tight deadlines for delivering research, the need to balance rigorous analysis with clear communication, and staying current with rapidly evolving policy landscapes. New hires can navigate these challenges by cultivating strong time management skills, actively seeking feedback from senior researchers, and engaging in continuous learning through seminars and networking events. Collaboration is key, as projects often require input from experts in various disciplines, so building relationships within and outside the organization is essential for success.

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

To thrive as a Think Tank Researcher, you need strong analytical abilities, research expertise, and advanced degrees in relevant fields such as political science, economics, or public policy. Familiarity with data analysis tools, academic databases, and sometimes statistical software like Stata or R is common. Excellent communication, critical thinking, and collaboration skills set standout candidates apart in producing and presenting impactful research. These abilities are crucial for generating credible policy recommendations and influencing decision-makers in fast-evolving policy landscapes.

Who gets hired at think tanks?

Think tanks typically hire individuals with strong research skills, relevant academic backgrounds, and expertise in policy areas such as economics, international relations, or public policy. Candidates often have advanced degrees, experience in research or analysis, and proficiency with data analysis tools or policy writing. Hiring also considers communication skills and the ability to work in a collaborative environment.

What jobs are there in a think tank?

Jobs in a think tank include research analyst, policy analyst, program manager, communications specialist, and administrative staff. These roles often require strong analytical skills, expertise in specific policy areas, and proficiency with research tools and data analysis software.
More about Think Tank jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Think Tank jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Think Tank jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What job categories do people searching Think Tank jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Think Tank jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Think Tank jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Think Tank job openings:

Think Tank jobs near you
Infographic showing various Think Tank job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $41,686 per year, or $20 per hour.

Junior/Midweight Designers

Engaging Talent LLC

Aurora, IL • Hybrid

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Chicago Packaging Design Firm is looking to hire a Junior/Intermediate Packaging Designer with some experience working on Food, Bev, and/or Snacks packaging. Lively team oriented studio. Lot's of opportunity to grow creatively and gain business smarts. Work is bright and inviting. Creative Director is wonderful to work with, and a good mentor. Portfolio should be mostly packaging design. Good type sense is essential. Ability to sketch a plus. The right candidate is ready to work on primary and secondary packaging, a full range of SKUs. Hybrid Remote to on site. The ability to understand strategy and communicate why certain choices were made is important. Capable of taking direction and contributing to think tank discussion. Strong Adobe Illustrator an Photoshop skills, working knowledge of InDesign, Keynote for presentation work, and MS office.
Responsibilities
*Design packaging for Food, Bev and/or Snacks
* Deliver Design solutions on time and on budget
* Communicate with and take direction from Senior Talent
Fit
* Invested in good design
* Comfortable collaborator
* Excellent Communicator