Live Now

Careers at Cato

Whether you’re a scholar, fellow, policy analyst, researcher, or writer driven by a passion for liberty—or a professional in digital technology, communications, government affairs, or operations—you’ll find a meaningful role here. Together, we shape public policy grounded in the principles of individual freedom, limited government, free markets, and peace.

Open Positions
Front of Cato building

Cato’s impact is global, but what makes us truly special is the dedication, curiosity, and talent of our team. We bring together individuals who are passionate about ideas, driven by intellectual exploration, and committed to civil discourse. If you’re looking for a place where your work can influence policy, inspire change, and challenge conventional thinking, we invite you to explore career opportunities with us.

Why Work at Cato?

At Cato, you won’t just have a job—you’ll be part of a mission-driven team shaping the future of policy and cultural debates. 

Cato is home to thinkers, problem-solvers, and innovators who believe in the power of ideas. We seek individuals who:

  • Are passionate about individual liberty, limited government, free markets, and peace
  • Thrive in a collaborative and intellectually open environment
  • Bring expertise, creativity, and a solutions-oriented mindset to their work
  • Value research, data, and reasoned argument over partisanship and activism
Join Cato: Apply now

Opportunities

If you want to be part of an organization that values ideas, fosters independent thinking, and brings together a community of passionate professionals, we’d love to hear from you.

Current Openings

Front of Cato Building

Internships

Cato Internship - 2024 Annual Report

Cato University

Cato University - 2024 Annual Report

Benefits and Culture

At Cato, we recognize that our people are what make us exceptional. We invest in our people by providing a benefits package designed to support your well-being, financial security, and personal growth.

We provide a flexible work environment to support the work-life balance:

  • Remote and hybrid work schedules
  • Up to 15 days of paid vacation per year
  • Up to 10 days of paid sick leave
  • 11 paid holidays per year
  • Up to 8 weeks of paid leave for new parents

Comprehensive coverage, with Cato paying an average of 80% of premiums for:

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Medical insurance includes fertility treatment coverage
  • Generous employer contributions to a Health Savings Account to help cover medical expenses
  • Health Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts

  • Basic life insurance and AD&D coverage, fully paid by Cato
  • Long-term disability insurance, fully paid by Cato
  • Life Insurance – up to $500,000 coverage
  • Short-term disability insurance

  • Up to $325 per month in commuting benefits for train, bus, rail, and other commuter-based programs.
  • On-site garage parking for qualifying employees
  • Up to $100 per month employer contribution to a Parking Flexible Spending Account

  • Plan for your future with 401(k) and Roth options
  • Employer match after one year of employment
  • Safe Harbor contribution for eligible employees
  • Discretionary contribution for eligible employees

What Our Employees Say

Our team members are what make Cato a world-renowned institute. Here’s what some of them have to say about working here:

“Working at Cato has been an intellectually rewarding experience. The people here challenge you to think critically, engage in meaningful discussions, and contribute to work that has real-world impact.”

–Policy Analyst

“Cato values independent thought and encourages creativity. I feel empowered to contribute new ideas and be part of a mission-driven team that truly cares about advancing liberty.”

–Communications Manager

“Being at Cato means working with some of the sharpest minds in public policy. The culture is collaborative, the leadership is supportive, and the mission is deeply fulfilling.”

–Research Fellow