The Security and Democracy Forum
Job Opportunities
Volunteer Opportunity: Strategic Communications Advisor
We’re seeking a talented and mission-aligned volunteer to help lead and refine our communications strategy. This role is ideal for someone with a background in public affairs, media relations, strategic comms, or digital engagement who is excited to help shape the public face of a growing organization from the ground up.
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Volunteer Opportunity: Operations Manager
We’re seeking a detail-oriented, mission-driven volunteer to help manage the internal operations of our growing organization. This is an ideal role for someone with experience in nonprofit administration, program coordination, or startup operations who wants to help build infrastructure that supports public impact.
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Volunteer Opportunity: Editor in Chief
We’re seeking a sharp, mission-aligned editor to help refine and elevate our written output. This volunteer will take a leadership role in managing the publication pipeline, refining article drafts, and working with contributors to produce high-quality content that speaks to national security and democracy professionals.
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Volunteer Opportunity: Programs Manager
We’re seeking a creative and mission-oriented Programs Manager to help lead the implementation of the Forum’s flagship initiatives—including the Founders’ Fellowship, policy workshops, and civic education offerings. This is an ideal role for someone with a background in public affairs, nonprofit programs, or education who wants to design meaningful experiences.
Internship & Fellowship Opportunities
EXTERNALLY-FUNDED FELLOWSHIP OPPORTUNITY
The Security and Democracy Forum (SDF) welcomes applications from graduating law students, policy professionals, or early-career researchers seeking to pursue externally-funded fellowships in alignment with our mission. We are especially eager to support individuals focused on advancing democratic resilience, national security reform, civil-military relations, or oversight and accountability in U.S. institutions.
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SDF offers a flexible, collaborative environment for fellows to contribute to ongoing research, publish original work, and help shape a growing platform at the intersection of democracy and security. Fellows will be integrated into our team and receive mentorship and visibility for their work.
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We encourage applicants seeking placements through programs such as Equal Justice Works, Scoville Peace Fellowship, or other foundation-supported fellowships to reach out early.
INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITY
The Security and Democracy Forum is also accepting applications from students or recent graduates interested in public service, national security, policy communications, or nonprofit operations. Interns may assist with research, communications, editorial support, or strategic development efforts.
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SDF is a mission-driven organization committed to ensuring security serves democratic values, not undermines them. We offer a unique opportunity to contribute to meaningful work in a startup nonprofit environment—ideal for those who want to help reimagine what a think tank can be.
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Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. We welcome proactive inquiries and expressions of interest.
Legal Externships
The Security and Democracy Forum (SDF) welcomes applications from law students seeking semester-based or summer legal externships focused on national security, oversight, and democratic governance. Externs will support research, legal analysis, and policy development at the intersection of law, public accountability, and national security strategy. This is an ideal opportunity for students interested in Congressional investigations, executive branch oversight, or civil liberties in the security context. Applicants should demonstrate strong legal writing skills and a commitment to principled public service. Placements are unpaid but may be eligible for academic credit through your institution.
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To Apply
To apply for any of the above, send a resume and cover letter, including position and start date, to our team: Jobs@SecurityandDemocracy.org.