Overview
A national organization focused on advancing racial and economic justice through local government is seeking an externally-funded Legal Fellow for the 2027–2028 cycle. This remote position supports a network of nearly 1,800 local elected officials and works on issues including climate justice, affordability, local government revenue generation, and opposition to surveillance technology and data centers.
Responsibilities
- Support the growth of legal and policy resources for members on a broad array of issues.
- Provide research and legal support to elected officials across various states.
- Assist with drafting ordinances and addressing legal questions such as preemption.
- Collaborate closely with the Legal & Policy team and work under the supervision of the Deputy Legal Director.
- Engage with members to develop strategies and resources to advance local policy.
Required Qualifications
- Juris Doctor degree required by the start of the fellowship in 2027.
- Excellent analytical skills for legal and policy research.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to work independently.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and anticipate challenges.
- Proficiency with legal research tools such as Westlaw and LexisNexis.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to quickly learn new issue areas and synthesize relevant research.
- Awareness of issues related to power, race, class, gender, and privilege in workplace dynamics.
- Commitment to social, racial, and economic justice.
- Interest in local policy, politics, and government.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with progressive policy campaigns.
- Experience with organizing, working with organizers, or movement lawyering.
- Lived experience related to issues such as wage theft, housing insecurity, discrimination, or environmental racism.
- Familiarity with legislative processes.
Compensation & Benefits
- Salary dependent on securing external funding; starting at step 11 of the salary scale with a minimum of $77,700.
- Consideration given to years of experience and advanced degrees.
- Position is part of a union-represented collective bargaining unit.
- Four-day workweek (Monday through Thursday).
- Benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance; four weeks of vacation; 20 sick days; paid holidays; and 403(b) plan contributions.
- Office closed annually from December 24 to January 1.
Location
- Remote within the United States.
Application Process
- Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter as soon as possible.
- Initial application review begins July 20.
- The organization will assist applicants in developing projects and applying to various externally-funded fellowship programs.
- Multiple rounds of review may occur due to varying external funding deadlines.
Equal Opportunity
The organization is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and actively encourages applications from people of color, womxn, individuals with disabilities, and members of the LGBTIQAA+ community.