Policy Research Analyst – Maritime Policy

Balsa Research is a lean 501(c)(3) non-profit think tank dedicated to advancing high-impact federal policy reforms. Our current focus is the Jones Act—a century-old maritime law whose effects ripple throughout the American economy.

We’re excited to be developing viable reform proposals that could reshape American maritime policy for the first time in generations.

Apply Here

What You’ll Do:

Set up and conduct 2–5 stakeholder meetings weekly with Congressional staff, committee members, maritime unions, and industry representatives, working closely with our remote team to map how different entities are impacted by the Jones Act, in positive and negative ways.

Understand and document different perspectives on Jones Act impact and possible reform, focusing on pragmatic and realistic solutions.

Track and analyze voting patterns and committee positions on maritime policy.

Help develop targeted policy materials based on stakeholder feedback.

Prepare briefing materials for team meetings and synthesize stakeholder feedback into actionable insights.

Contribute to a comprehensive policy binder that will serve as the foundation for legislative reform efforts.

Qualifications

Required:

2+ years of Hill or policy experience

Based in Washington, DC area to facilitate in-person meetings

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Ability to work independently while maintaining regular communication with remote team

Professional discretion when handling sensitive political information

Preferred:

Experience with transportation, labor, or maritime policy

Existing relationships with Congressional offices or relevant committees

Experience drafting or analyzing legislation

Graduate degree in public policy, political science, or related field

You’ll work closely with our remote team through regular check-ins and collaborative sessions, and we’ll provide ongoing support to ensure your success in the role. There may be occasional evening or early morning activities for conferences or calls, and very occasional travel to maritime industry conferences.

Compensation & Benefits

$30–40/hour depending on experience

$500/month health reimbursement account (QSEHRA) for health insurance and medical expenses

One-time $500 remote work setup stipend

Position Details

Reports to the strategic operations lead.

This position begins with a one-month trial period to ensure mutual fit, after which successful candidates convert to permanent employee status. All compensation and benefits begin immediately.

Core hours required for stakeholder meetings during standard DC business hours.

Must be based in the Washington, DC area.

Must be authorized to work in the United States (we cannot sponsor visas at this time).

Is this a lobbying position?
This is a research position, not a lobbying role. You’ll gather information and perspectives to inform policy development, not advocate for specific outcomes. While you may share information about our research when asked, your primary role is to listen, understand, and document stakeholder perspectives.

How to Apply

Please click here to apply. You will need a Gmail account to complete the application form. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and strong candidates will be contacted for initial interviews within 3 business days.

If you have any questions about the position or the application process, please email [email protected]