Policy Analyst, Middle East and North Africa

Title:                         Policy Analyst, Middle East and North Africa

Reports to:            Director, Douglas and Sarah Allison Center for National Security

Job Summary:          The Policy Analyst is responsible for contributing to the development of policy papers, studies, and reports by conducting research and related activities on the threats and opportunities in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. This position has lead responsibility for MENA policy analysis and tracking of related Congressional and executive branch actions. This position also works with other staff to enhance research and refine proposals into affirmative public policy positions that advance Heritage’s agenda of protecting core American national interests and national security issues. The Policy Analyst is responsible for policy topics involving MENA, including threats from China, Russia, and Iran, obstacles to free market based economic growth, the U.S-Israel relationship, the threat of antisemitism within the U.S., and the impact of foreign aid.

Job Duties:

• Conduct policy analysis and scholarly research on MENA issues.
• Support broader national security efforts within Heritage.
• Assist with development of innovative policy recommendations and proposals.
• Organize data and information into effective policy or advocacy papers.
• Plan and execute in-person and virtual events and meetings with key stakeholders.
• Attend and participate at public functions and conferences.
• Participate in the public policy community and debate.
• Effectively and frequently interact with Congressional members and staff.
• Assist in preparation of Congressional testimonies.
• Participate in the Antisemitism Task Force and the implementation of Project Esther (National Strategy to Combat Antisemitism).

Qualifications:

Education:             Graduate degree relevant to MENA affairs policy or commensurate technical expertise

Experience:           4+  years in public policy research and advocacy; extensive knowledge of social media platforms; superior technical proficiency

Communication:   Excellent, fast, and convincing writing and speaking skills for both research and commentary; knowledge of digital editing preferred

Technology:          Microsoft Suite

Other Requirements:           

• Understand and support the Heritage mission and vision for America, and the department's goals and objectives.
• Promote policies consistent with Heritage’s priorities; speak with one voice.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Ability to operationalize policy into advocacy.
• Practical experience in a relevant field and ability to apply conservative principles to policy research on current topics.
• Professionalism: high degree (adaptability, maturity, integrity and accountability).
• Initiative: high, requiring general guidance with strong degree of independent action.
• Innovation: strong entrepreneurial skills and willingness to take initiative.
• Knowledge level: Relatively in-depth knowledge of two or more (related) public policy areas.

Benefits and Salary:

The Heritage Foundation offers a highly competitive benefits package that includes, but is not limited to, best-in-class health care, vision, and dental insurance, employer-sponsored retirement funding, “take what you need” PTO and sick leave, 14 weeks of paid leave for new moms and 6 weeks of paid leave for new dads, among other programs.

The salary range for this role is $78,000 - $100,000 annually. This range is a good-faith estimate, and the final salary offered to a selected candidate depends on a variety of factors including, but not limited to, the candidate’s experience, education, and other qualifications; internal and external market pay for comparable jobs; and level of hire based on aforementioned qualifications.