Policy Intern - Summer 2027

About the role

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) delivers high-impact, technical solutions to complex national security issues. With over 50 years of business expertise and consistent growth, SPA is known for continuous innovation for government customers in the US and abroad. The Strategic Division (SD) supports high-reliability organizations including Navy Strategic Systems Programs (SSP), Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center, and the Department of Energy (DOE). Support encompasses data analytics and visualization, threat analysis, risk management, modeling and simulation, cost estimating, earned value management, program management, system engineering, independent evaluation, and High Consequence Event prevention. The Strategic Systems Analysis Group (SSAG) provides multiple organizations within the Department of War with timely and objective assessments and recommendations that integrate technical, operational, programmatic, policy, and business analysis, focusing on key clients in the undersea community including Navy's Strategic Systems Programs (SSP).

Timeline

Applications can be submitted and will be reviewed until 1 5 November 2026. Interviews will be ongoing and conclude by 13 December 2026. Offers/decisions will be extended by 20 December 2026.

Responsibilities

The policy intern will support the development and execution of various efforts within SSAG, performing work on various National Security topics in support of a range of defense nuclear enterprise and Navy customers. The intern will work on complex analytical studies and develop papers that analyze or recommend positions on issues and develop presentation materials necessary for policy execution. They will research, analyze, and synthesize information from Navy and national strategic documents, research and development, and acquisition programs to help develop policy recommendations and support to clients. The successful policy intern will provide relevant, objective, timely, and clear analytical support to SSAG customers to help them make better decisions, working collaboratively to analyze and synthesize information, propose solutions, and prepare written papers for the customer.

• Decomposing complex issues into simplified problem statements and clearly and explicitly connecting analysis to specific aspects of the issue.
• Drafting white papers to support decision analysis.
• Assisting in the development of briefings, memos, and other contract deliverables.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• US Citizenship required and the ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret Clearance.
• Working toward a Bachelor's or Master's degree in history, political science, government, international relations, or related field.
• Strong written and oral communication skills, with ability to synthesize data and communicate clearly via written and verbal means.
• Proficient in using Microsoft Office, including Word, PowerPoint, and Excel to communicate to decision makers.
• Ability to report to designated work location in Alexandria, VA, up to full time, based on the needs of the customer.

Desired Qualifications:

• Active DoD Secret Clearance.
• Knowledge of the nuclear enterprise.
• Knowledge of, or experience with, the Presidential budget planning and execution processes.
• Proactive interest in learning new skills and engaging new challenges.
• Strong customer service skills, with interest in proactively anticipating and addressing client needs.

Pay

Virginia, Pay Transparency Salary range: USD $23.00/Hr. - USD $33.00/Hr.