Research Assistant, National Security and International Policy

Reports to: Senior Fellow, National Security and International Policy
Staff reporting to this position: None
Department: National Security and International Policy
Position classification: Exempt, full time; Union - Level 2
Compensation range: $54,000–$62,100 per annum
Work site: On-site (Washington, D.C., office)

Summary

American Progress has an immediate opening for a Research Assistant in its National Security and International Policy (NSIP) department.

The department’s work is driven by American Progress’ mission, “to improve the lives of all Americans through bold, progressive ideas, as well as strong leadership and concerted action, with the aim of not only changing the conversation, but changing the country.”

The Research Assistant will support NSIP’s work to promote a strategic, accountable, and forward-looking approach to national security and international policy. In doing so, the Research Assistant will contribute to the department’s overall efforts in advancing an agenda that balances defense, diplomacy, and development.

The Research Assistant will help implement this research and advocacy agenda, develop and write policy products, assist in outreach and coalition-building efforts, and help manage relationships with outside stakeholders including allied organizations, policymakers, and the media.

Responsibilities:

  • Support and conduct original research and analysis of national security and international policy issues with a particular near-term focus on the advancement of a progressive and accountable national security agenda.
  • Research policies and legislation relevant to these policy areas and monitor relevant developments across the three branches of government.
  • Proofread and edit documents.
  • Assist in coordinating and planning meetings and events.
  • Draft articles, papers, memos, charts, tables, and infographics.
  • Develop expertise in assigned policy areas.
  • Build relationships with external stakeholders in the fields of national security and international policy, with an emphasis on democratic accountability.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

 Requirements and qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in liberal arts, international relations, public policy, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • At least two years of professional experience and/or an advanced degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience are a plus.
  • Strong research and writing skills.
  • Good analytical skills.
  • Ability to understand and communicate effectively about national security and international policy, with an emphasis on accountability, human rights, and democracy.
  • Ability to work well on a team and in a fast-paced environment.
  • Comfort working under pressure and tight deadlines.
  • Ability to multitask.
  • Knowledge of the executive and legislative politics of national security and international policy.
  • Experience with both 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) nonprofit organizations is a plus.
  • Proficiency in a second language is a plus.
  • Commitment to American Progress’ mission and goals.

American Progress offers a full and competitive benefits package. Candidates from diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply. This position is part of a bargaining unit represented by IFPTE Local 70 and has a salary range of $54,000–$62,100.

Apply Now

This announcement will remain posted until the position is filled. No phone calls, please.

Please note that only those individuals whose qualifications match the current needs of this position will be considered applicants and will receive responses from American Progress.

This is not a remote position.

Thank you for your interest in American Progress.

Additional information

American Progress operates two separate nonprofit organizations to maximize the progressive agenda: the Center for American Progress and the Center for American Progress Action Fund. This job posting refers collectively to the two organizations under the name “American Progress.” The Center for American Progress is a nonpartisan 501(c)(3) tax-exempt research and educational institute. It undertakes research, public education and a limited amount of lobbying. The Center for American Progress Action Fund is a nonpartisan 501(c)(4) tax-exempt organization dedicated to achieving progress through action. It works to transform progressive ideas into policy through rapid-response communications, legislative action, grassroots organizing, political advocacy, and partnerships with other progressive leaders. The organizations share office space and employees.

American Progress is dedicated to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. Diversity is more than a commitment at American Progress—it is the foundation of what we do. American Progress recruits, employs, trains, compensates, and promotes regardless of race, religion, sex, national origin, ethnicity, age, disability, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity, color, marital status, veteran status, medical condition, and all the other characteristics that make us unique.

For more information on the Center for American Progress, please go to www.americanprogress.org. For more information on the Center for American Progress Action Fund, please go to www.americanprogressaction.org.