Forward Defense

Atlantic Council

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct research to support the activities of Forward Defense.
• Manage Forward Defense contacts and knowledge.
• Draft correspondence and take notes at roundtables and strategy sessions for program archives.
• Handle logistical and operational functions of Forward Defense issues for events and activities.
• Help draft policy briefs, blog posts, memos, articles, and other publications.
• Support Forward Defense’s development as needed.
• Conduct media outreach to promote FD’s events, publications, and writings.
• Support Forward Defense in creating and updating content on its website using WordPress.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Must be at least a college junior in good standing, a graduate student, or college graduate.
• Proven interest in the core mission of the Atlantic Council.
• Interest in and knowledge of topics such as:
• Chinese and Russian security
• Military technology
• Space security
• Nuclear deterrence and arms control
• National security applications of artificial intelligence and machine learning
• Hybrid warfare
• Homeland security
• Defense industry
• Wargaming
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills (both verbal and written – live and virtual).
• Ability to identify and work through challenges, underscored by strong judgment and emotional intelligence.
• Proficient in MS Office suite.
• Proficiency in other software such as WordPress, Salesforce, and Marketo is noted in the application.
• Strong analytical, planning, time management, and organizational skills.
• Ability to commit to work full-time (forty hours per week) from the Council’s Washington, DC headquarters.
• Requirement to be in the office four days a week.

Applications close Sunday, November 8, 2026, at 11:59 pm ET (4:59 am GMT).

Requires a resume and cover letter.

Compensation: $18.50 per hour.