Martin Luther King, Jr Fellowship - Pennsylvania Utility Law Project

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Posted Sep 19, 2026

Remote · US · ask about Worldwide Contract
$60K – $72K/yr

Overview

This is a Pennsylvania-based, fully remote legal fellowship with travel to Harrisburg for in-person staff meetings 2–3 times per year and occasional in-person meetings, hearings, and trainings.

The fellowship provides recent law school graduates the opportunity to pursue a career in legal services through a structured, two-year fellowship program with assigned mentors and supervision by experienced attorneys.

A primary substantive focus of the fellowship is supporting expanded equitable data center policies that prevent cost-shifting to low income households.

Responsibilities

Responsibilities may vary depending on policy and litigation needs throughout the year and may include:

  • Conduct legal and policy research.
  • Provide legal advice and representation to individual consumers facing acute utility crisis through a utility hotline.
  • Draft and/or review formal written comments advocating for and/or defending positions in a range of policy proceedings before the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission and other government agencies.
  • Assist with large-scale litigation of utility proceedings before the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission.
  • Advocate for clients’ positions in meetings with utilities and administrative agencies.
  • Provide technical assistance and case consultation to other attorneys and advocates on matters impacting access to energy and water services.
  • Assist with developing and presenting educational training for a variety of audiences.

Fellows will also participate in training and activities associated with the Martin Luther King, Jr. Fellowship and Internship Program.

Requirements

  • Bachelor of Art or Science from an accredited college or university.
  • Juris Doctorate from a law school accredited by the American Bar Association.
  • Admission to the practice of law in Pennsylvania or eligibility to become a member of the Pennsylvania state bar within 4 months of hire.
  • Demonstrated commitment to achieving justice for low income Pennsylvanians.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Lived experience with utility insecurity.
  • Prior experience with legal aid / law school clinic, legislative advocacy, administrative advocacy, social services, or housing.
  • Fluency in writing and speaking a language other than English.

Other Qualifications

  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Close attention to detail.
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a diverse, fast-paced environment.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and ability to communicate complicated concepts with a range of people and audiences.
  • Computer literacy, including web-based applications, email, and word processing.
  • A valid driver’s license or access to alternative means of reliable transportation.
  • Strong interest in working in public interest law in Pennsylvania.

Location

  • Fully remote with travel to Harrisburg for in-person staff meetings 2–3 times per year and occasional in-person meetings, hearings, and trainings.
  • Standard office equipment is provided for remote work.
  • Remote workers must maintain a separate office space and secure, high-speed internet.
  • Option to work in-person from the Harrisburg office for those who prefer.

Compensation & Benefits

  • Salary is dependent on experience.
  • Estimated starting salary: $60,000 without a Pennsylvania bar license (increases upon bar passage).
  • Salary range for licensed attorneys with 1–2 years’ experience: $65,000–$72,000.
  • Benefits include full healthcare, dental coverage, retirement contributions, and generous paid leave.

Loan repayment assistance (LRA) is available. Fellows must first apply for LRA through the PA Bar Foundation IOLTA Loan Repayment Program, their law school, and/or the Legal Services Corporation (LSC) to receive PLAN LRA. The 2026–27 PA Bar Foundation IOLTA Program application is expected to open in early September 2026.

Equal Opportunity

Employment decisions are based on merit without regard to race, color, religious creed, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, military service or status, veteran status, marital status, parenthood, political affiliation or beliefs, or any other factors unrelated to the skills and qualifications for the position. Individuals of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

Application

Submit a cover letter, resume, three professional references (references must identify the relationship), official law school transcript, and a writing sample (limit 15 pages).

Applications are accepted by email only until the position is filled. Preference will be given to candidates that apply by Friday, September 4, 2026.

Additional application guidance:

  • Please explain in the cover letter your interest in public interest law, including your interest in working with PULP specifically, and how your unique background and/or experiences might contribute to the diversity, cultural vitality, and perspective of the staff and legal services practice.
  • The organization strongly discourages the use of AI in application materials, including the cover letter and writing sample. All application materials must be the applicant’s own.
  • The organization reserves the right to decline to interview a candidate or rescind a fellowship offer if an applicant misrepresents the originality of their application materials.

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