Policy Scholar, Secure & Sovereign Nation

Texas Public Policy FoundationAustin, TX

About The Position

The Texas Public Policy Foundation (TPPF) is seeking an experienced and motivated Policy Scholar to join our Secure & Sovereign Nation campaign. The Secure & Sovereign Nation (SSN) initiative of the Texas Public Policy Foundation is seeking a Policy Scholar to support the development of state and national policy solutions related to U.S.–Mexico relations, border security, transnational criminal organizations, and homeland defense. This is an entry-level policy role designed for individuals who are intellectually curious, highly accountable, and passionate about advancing serious security-focused policy solutions. The ideal candidate possesses strong research and writing capabilities and a demonstrated interest in the geopolitical, security, and governance challenges facing North America. SSN operates from the understanding that lasting security requires confronting the growing convergence between foreign terrorist organizations, corruption, and political instability in Mexico and throughout the region.

Requirements

  • Demonstrated interest in homeland defense policy and security affairs
  • Demonstrable ability to produce top-tier academic research
  • Strong research and writing abilities
  • Excellent organizational skills and personal accountability
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment
  • Professional communication skills and comfort engaging with high-level stakeholders

Nice To Haves

  • Proficiency in Spanish highly desirable.

Responsibilities

  • Conduct academic and policy research related to U.S.–Mexico relations, border security, cartel activity, immigration enforcement, and regional governance
  • Assist in drafting policy briefs, reports, legislative materials, testimony, and research
  • Draft opinion pieces and contribute to public-facing communications efforts
  • Support media engagement efforts, including preparation for interviews, podcasts, and public appearances
  • Liaise with policymakers, legislative offices, law enforcement stakeholders, coalition partners, and subject matter experts
  • Represent SSN and TPPF professionally at meetings, conferences, briefings, and public events
  • Assist senior staff with strategic initiatives, rapid-response research, and policy development projects

Benefits

  • Competitive salaries
  • Excellent health insurance, for staff & dependents
  • Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) policies, including holidays
  • Parental leave
  • Retirement contribution matching
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