Policy Intern (2026 Strategic Division)

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, we are known for continuous innovation for our government customers, in both the US and abroad. Our exceptionally talented team is highly collaborative in spirit and practice, producing Results that Matter. Come work with the best! We offer opportunity, unique challenges, and clear-sighted commitment to the mission. SPA: Objective. Responsive. Trusted.

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), among others. Our support across our client base is expanding rapidly and encompasses important services, such as 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) supports government and private sector strategic planning, decision making, and program management. SSAG integrates deep client knowledge, advanced analytics, and subject matter expertise to provide timely and objective technical, operational, programmatic, acquisition, and policy analysis. SSAG is hiring for a Summer 2026 Intern at Alexandria, Virginia.

Timeline for intern selection:

• Applications can be submitted and will be reviewed until 31 January 2026.
• Interviews will be ongoing and conclude by 20 February 2026.
• Offers/decisions will be extended by 27 February 2026.

The policy intern will support the development and execution of various efforts within Strategic Systems Analysis Group. The policy intern will perform work on various National Security topics in support of a range of defense nuclear enterprise and Navy customers. They will work on complex analytical studies and developing papers that analyze or recommend positions on issues and developing presentation materials necessary for policy execution. They will research, analyze, and synthesize information from Navy and national strategic documents, research and development, and/or acquisition programs to help develop policy recommendations and support to clients.

Tasks include, but are not limited to:

• Decompose complex issues into simplified problem statements and clearly and explicitly connect analysis to specific aspects of the issue.
• Draft white papers to support decision analysis.
• Assist in the development of briefings, memos, and Contract Deliverables.

Required Qualifications:

• Ability to work in Alexandria, Virginia.
• U.S. Citizen with a DoD SECRET clearance or the ability to obtain and maintain clearance.
• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's Degree in history, political science, government, international relations, or related field.
• Exceptional written and oral communication skills.

Desired Qualifications:

• Active SECRET or higher clearance.
• Knowledge of national nuclear enterprise.
• Knowledge of, or experience with, the Presidential budget planning and execution processes.