Policy Analyst

This position will be based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, or Washington, D.C. FIRE operates on a hybrid work schedule that allows for a mix of in-the-office and remote work for eligible employees. This position is not eligible for fully remote work.

About FIRE

The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression’s mission is to defend and sustain the individual rights of all Americans to free speech and free thought — the most essential qualities of liberty. FIRE educates Americans about the importance of these inalienable rights, promotes a culture of respect for these rights, and provides the means to preserve them.

Position Description

The Policy Analyst will report to the Vice President of Research and work within the Research team. This role will support FIRE’s efforts to expand its research into free expression issues beyond higher education, helping to identify, analyze, and communicate trends that shape the landscape of First Amendment rights and free speech more broadly. The Policy Analyst will also work closely with FIRE’s Litigation, Legislative, and Public Advocacy teams to provide research that supports cross-functional initiatives.

The duties for this position include, but are not limited to: 

• Conduct original research on a wide range of questions related to freedom of expression, including legal, legislative, cultural, and technological dimensions.
• Investigate and synthesize publicly available data, legal cases, academic research, and government records.
• Submit and navigate public records requests.
• Draft research memos, policy briefs, white papers, and written products that translate complex issues for internal stakeholders and external audiences.
• Collaborate with FIRE’s legislative, public advocacy, and litigation teams to provide policy context and analysis relevant to their work.
• Present research findings clearly through presentations or public commentary as appropriate.
• Track emerging issues in the free speech landscape and help generate new research ideas.

This position will also perform other support functions for the day-to-day operation of FIRE and will frequently collaborate with other staff members and departments on general duties and specialized projects.

This position involves a minimal amount of travel. Although projected to be rare, there may be some occasional work on weekends and evenings.

The expected start date for this position is as soon as possible.

Qualifications

 A successful candidate will have a good work ethic, be a solutionist, and have the ability to work independently. Most importantly, the candidate must demonstrate a knowledge and passion for FIRE’s mission and an ability to articulate that passion in a way that will make others enthusiastic about our cause. A candidate must also be able to demonstrate:

• Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent training) in public policy, political science, law, economics, sociology, or a related field; master’s degree or legal training is a plus.
• 3+ years of relevant experience in research, policy analysis, journalism, or legal work.
• Demonstrated interest in civil liberties, free speech, or First Amendment issues.
• Excellent research and writing skills, including the ability to clearly communicate nuanced or controversial topics.
• Comfortable working with both qualitative and quantitative data (experience with statistical analysis or public records requests is a plus).
• Self-starter with intellectual curiosity and a collaborative mindset.
• The ability to use sound judgment and exercise discretion.

• Experience working with large datasets or conducting legal research.
• Familiarity with public records requests, legislative tracking, or case law databases.
• Prior work at a think tank, civil liberties organization, or policy-focused nonprofit.

Salary and Compensation

The projected salary range is $80,000-$90,000 based upon experience and education level. FIRE conducts periodic evaluations where employees may receive raises or bonuses for outstanding and excellent work. FIRE also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes employer-paid comprehensive health, dental, and life insurance; a Section 125 Flexible Spending Account option; matching retirement contributions; and a generous paid time-off plan.

Applications

Applicants should provide a resume, cover letter, demonstration of work (if possible), salary requirements, and contact information of at least two professional references. All applications are confidential. Please address applications to Cait Scanlan, Chief People Officer.

FIRE is an equal opportunity employer.