Equal Justice Works (EJW) Fellow Candidate

Overview

This full-time, non-exempt Equal Justice Works (EJW) Fellow position offers a two-year term starting in September 2027. The role is remote or hybrid based in Washington, DC, with some travel required. The fellowship involves working on legal and policy efforts to implement youth sentencing reforms in Missouri, focusing on ensuring consistent application of recent laws and supporting youth serving lengthy sentences and their families.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate implementation of recent youth sentencing reforms across Missouri.
• Provide technical assistance and legal resources to attorneys and stakeholders.
• Develop resources to help youth serving lengthy sentences and their families navigate review and parole processes.
• Connect eligible individuals with pro bono legal representation.
• Document challenges, successes, and best practices in implementation.
• Strengthen networks of directly impacted individuals and families to support advocacy and peer engagement.
• Build partnerships with community organizations to expand reentry and supportive services.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree or expected completion before fellowship start.
• Experience with criminal law and criminal legal systems through employment, internships, clinics, practicums, or lived experience.
• Strong legal research and writing skills.
• Attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Proficiency with computer applications such as Outlook, Google Apps, and video conferencing.
• Experience with or passion for working with those impacted by mass incarceration.
• Alignment with values centered on supporting individuals directly impacted by extreme sentencing.

Preferred Qualifications and Traits

• Strong interest in criminal legal reform, especially ending harsh youth sentencing, racial discrimination, and human rights abuses.
• Commitment to restoring dignity and opportunities for youth impacted by life without parole and extreme sentences.
• Belief in the inherent dignity and humanity of all people regardless of background.
• Willingness to learn and adapt to evolving work priorities.
• Constructive, optimistic problem-solving approach.
• Prioritization of self-care.

Location and Travel

• The role is remote or hybrid with headquarters in Washington, DC.
• Candidates with connections to Missouri or residing in Missouri and surrounding states are strongly encouraged.
• Expected travel up to 3-4 times per year, including participation in 1-2 in-person all-staff gatherings annually, often in Washington, DC.
• All required home-office technology, equipment, and business travel expenses are covered.

Physical Environment and Equipment

• Regular use of computer, telephone, and video conferencing.
• Ability to travel within the continental United States by plane, train, or car.
• Reasonable accommodations available for individuals with disabilities.

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary is funded through the Equal Justice Works Design-Your-Own Fellowship program; terms depend on fellowship award.
• Benefits include four weeks of annual paid vacation, accrued sick time, 100% employer-paid individual health insurance premiums, life and disability insurance, Employee Assistance Program, option for an 8-week sabbatical after five years, and a 403(b) retirement plan.

Application Process

• Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis; priority deadline is August 21, 2026.
• Applicants must submit a letter of interest, resume, brief writing sample (3-5 pages), and three references (contact information only) combined into one PDF.
• Candidates must be able to complete a joint application for the Equal Justice Works fellowship by September 17, 2026, including two reference letters and a personal statement.

Equal Opportunity

The organization is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. People of color, individuals with disabilities, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and those with personal experience in the criminal legal system are strongly encouraged to apply. Candidates who do not meet every qualification but are passionate about the mission are also encouraged to apply.