Research Assistant

Type of Role: Full-Time

Location: Washington, DC

Start Date: ASAP

National Security Action is seeking a Research Assistant to support its work advancing a smart, principled vision of U.S. foreign policy, while pushing back on the Trump Administration’s reckless national security impulses. The ideal candidate would be interested in foreign policy and politics, and they would be eager to work in a fast paced, dynamic environment. Excellent writing skills and prior research experience are required. This person will be expected to be a self-starting team player who helps execute against multiple program priorities and also has the confidence to bring new ideas to the table. 

Required Qualifications

  • Undergraduate degree or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

  • 2-3 years of full-time work experience, which includes prior research experience.

  • Strong writing skills and superior communication abilities.

  • Ability to conduct research and present findings.

  • Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities.

  • Logistical acumen and project management experience.

  • Attention to detail and significant organization skills.

  • Excellent judgement and discretion when working on sensitive issues and ability to engage with senior leaders.

  • Capacity to work under deadline pressure and keen attention to detail and significant organization skills.

  • Desire to be a team-player within a lean, start-up environment.

  • Passion for foreign policy and national security issues and dedication to advocating for a principled national security agenda.

  • Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in policy spaces.

Responsibilities would include:

  • Conduct research to amplify the work of the organization, develop key policy messages, or respond to breaking news. 

  • Develop research-based collateral (fact sheets, message memos, etc.) and draft content for National Security Action’s website.

  • Assist with organizing, coordinating, and executing events, such as full day meetings, retreats, and events with external stakeholders.

  • Oversee the logistics for a variety of work streams, ensuring that our efforts are coordinated and synchronized.

  • Coordinate and manage schedules for leadership and the team, ensuring there are no scheduling conflicts and that meetings are prioritized effectively.

  • Manage the organization’s contact list and database, consistently keeping it updated. 

  • Work with the organization’s leadership to identify and execute against dynamic administrative, research, and policy requirements.

  • Other duties as assigned.

Additional Information and Application Instructions

Compensation: $65,000-$75,000, commensurate with experience. We offer a competitive benefits package as well, including 401k matching, healthcare, dental, and vision. 

To apply, please send your resume and cover letter to resume@nationalsecurityaction.org with your subject line “Research Assistant - Your First and Last Name”.  No calls or direct emails, please. Resumes will be considered on a rolling basis.

Even if you don’t check off every box in the requirements listed above, please apply anyway. National Security Action is committed to creating a diverse work environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. National Security Action does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, religion, sexual orientation, age, disability, parental status, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable laws. We encourage individuals of all backgrounds to apply.

National Security Action sits at the intersection of foreign policy and politics. With an extensive network of national security policy and communications professionals, we serve as a hub for designing and advancing a foreign policy that is innovative, principled, and resonant with the American people.