Social Policy Fellow, Social Policy, Education, & Politics Program (2026-2027)

Third Way • Washington, DC

3d • Hybrid

About The Position

Third Way, a national think tank and advocacy organization, is seeking a Social Policy Fellow for its Social Policy, Education & Politics Program. This fellowship focuses on addressing divisive social issues such as immigration, crime, LGBT equality, abortion, and guns. The program aims to develop moderate policy solutions and has a history of influencing policy on immigration, marriage equality, and gun safety. The fellow will contribute to research, policy development, and advocacy efforts, working with policymakers and stakeholders to advance Third Way's mission.

Requirements

• A graduate degree (Master’s, J.D., or other).
• Experience in public policy, including internships and coursework.
• Ability to explain complicated concepts in a way that makes sense to the general public while engaging and exciting the audience.
• An interest in center-left politics and commitment to Third Way’s mission.
• The ability to take initiative on individual projects, but willingness to work collaboratively on a team.
• Strong research and technical skills, with a talent for knowing and telling the story a dataset demands.
• Knowledge of or familiarity with relevant policy issues, particularly immigration and/or crime.
• Knowledge of the legislative process and the ability to explain complicated concepts in a way that makes sense to policymakers.
• Diplomacy and discretion when dealing with external groups.
• A willingness to work collaboratively on a team while taking the initiative on individual projects.
• An aptitude to multi-task on various assignments in distinct issue areas.
• A penchant for solving problems creatively and thinking outside the box.
• A deep commitment to Third Way’s mission of representing Americans in the “vital center.”
• Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without current or future employer sponsorship.

Nice To Haves

• An advanced degree (master’s or law) in a related field.
• Familiarity with LGBT equality, abortion, and gun policy issues.

Responsibilities

• Conduct in-depth research and quantitative analysis of various sources, including online databases, media, and reports from government, NGOs, and academia.
• Produce high-impact written products, such as policy briefings, memos, and presentations, by distilling complex issues into succinct and accessible formats.
• Organize and participate in high-level external meetings, Capitol Hill briefings, and professional networking events to promote Third Way policies.
• Share research and policy ideas with Hill staff, advocates, think tanks, and academics through meetings and events.
• Support team members with research and administrative tasks as needed.

Benefits

• $60,000 annual stipend
• Two weeks of paid vacation
• Comprehensive health care and benefits
• Five paid Career Development Days
• Access to a robust alumni network for mentorship and connections
• Regular check-ins and guidance from Learning & Organizational Development (LOD) staff
• Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
• Health Reimbursement Account (HRA)
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA, DCA, Parking, and Transit)
• Life Insurance
• Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance
• Retirement plan
• Accrued Paid Sick and Vacation leave
• Long-term Disability
• Employee Assistant Program (EAP)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level