Intern, Missile Defense Project (MDP)

Job Description

About the Company:

The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, bipartisan public policy organization. Established in 1962, its mission is to provide strategic insights and practical policy solutions to decision-makers concerned with global security and prosperity. CSIS has grown into a large organization, with a staff of approximately 275 employees, including over 120 analysts. These analysts are dedicated to addressing the evolving dynamics of international security worldwide. CSIS is headquartered in Washington, D.C., and emphasizes a future-oriented approach in its research, analysis, and policy initiatives. It is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in its employment practices.

Job Description: Intern, Missile Defense Project (MDP)

This is an internship position within the CSIS Missile Defense Project (MDP). The MDP focuses on critical issues related to air and missile defense, long-range strike capabilities, sensor technologies, and emerging military technologies.

Key Details:
• Start Date: September 15th, 2025
• Work Schedule: Full-time, 35 hours per week (Monday through Friday)
• Location: Predominantly in-person, with some flexibility for remote work
• Duration: Minimum of three consecutive months
• Compensation: Hourly pay, commensurate with education level:
• $18.00/hour for current undergraduate students
• $19.00/hour for individuals with a bachelor’s degree
• $20.00/hour for individuals with a master’s degree

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will primarily provide support for the MDP’s research and operational activities. Key responsibilities include:
• Research Assistance: Supporting the development of MDP’s various publications and products.
• Data Management: Assisting with data collection, organization, and visualization.
• Event Support: Helping with the planning, preparation, and staffing of project events.
• Copyediting: Providing editorial support for written publications to ensure clarity and accuracy.
• Administrative Tasks: Performing other administrative duties as needed to support the project’s operations.

Required Knowledge, Education, and Experience:
Candidates must meet specific academic and experiential criteria:
• Academic Status: Must be at least a college junior, a graduate student, or a recent graduate.
• GPA: A minimum GPA of 3.5 (on a 4.0 scale) from an accredited U.S. institution, or an equivalent from a non-U.S. institution, is required.
• Subject Interest/Experience: Demonstrated interest or prior experience in missile defense, nuclear policy, or emerging military technologies.
• Academic/Research Record: An excellent record in an academic or research environment.
• Skills: Strong writing, organizational, communication, and time management skills are essential.
• Work Ethic: Ability to work independently.
• Eligibility: Must be eligible to work in the United States.

Physical Requirements and Work Conditions:
The role is primarily office-based. Employees should be able to meet the physical demands typical of an office environment. Reasonable accommodations will be made for individuals with disabilities. The noise level in the workplace is generally moderate.

Application Process:
Interested applicants should submit the following documents through the CSIS careers portal (https://careers.csis.org):
• Résumé
• Cover Letter
• College Transcript

CSIS is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or protected veteran status.