POLICY FELLOWSHIP WITH THE OFFICE OF COUNCILMEMBER RUE LANDAU

Location: Office of Councilmember Rue Landau, City Hall Room 592, Philadelphia, PA
Duration: January 2026 – June 2026
Hours: 15-20 hours per week, hybrid City Hall office and virtual
Compensation: $20 per hour
Reports to: Senior Policy Director

About:

The Office of Councilmember Rue Landau is seeking a motivated, detail-oriented, and mission-driven graduate or law student to serve as a Policy Fellow in the spring 2025 legislative term. This is an exciting opportunity for those who are interested in working independently and collaboratively towards Councilmember Landau’s vision for a better Philadelphia. This role offers an opportunity to learn about the impact city government can have on our nearly 1.6 million constituents, while working on their behalf.

The Policy Fellow reports directly to the Senior Policy Director and will collaborate with the Legislative Director, Chief of Staff, the rest of the Councilmember’s team and directly with the Councilmember on projects that will directly result in developing and advancing Councilmember Landau’s legislative and policy agenda. Projects will include policy and legal research, communication with city departments, community stakeholders, and issue-area experts, public policy, including the development and implementation of the Councilmember’s legislative agenda. Research and policy development will include deep work in areas of particular relevance to Councilmember Landau’s priorities, including fair housing, preserving affordable rental housing, justice and economic well-being for returning citizens, LGBTQ+ rights, consumer protection, and digital equity, among other issues. The fellow will also support other duties as assigned, including working on community engagement, constituent services, and communications projects.

Responsibilities:

Policy and Legislative Research:

1. Research and analyze policy matters relevant to Philadelphia City Council, including tracking policy at the state, federal, and local level; identifying stakeholders and assessing support for policies and programs; researching costs and impacts of policy measures, researching model and comparative legislation in other cities and states, and reviewing research papers, data, and analysis
2. Draft policy briefs and summary memos that include background context, recommendations, and other considerations about key topics relating to Councilmember Rue Landau’s policy agenda
3. Work with legislative team to engage with internal and external stakeholders on policy topics and priorities
4. Where applicable, conduct legal research to inform policy and legislative development
5. Develop briefings that summarize multiple methods of research and descriptive tools, including data and visual aids, about key policy matters, programs, and funding sources.

Legislative Support:

6. Research legislation proposed by other Councilmembers and write summary briefings and/or memos
7. Support the legislative team in circulating bills and resolutions for co-sponsorship
8. Track and monitor legislation throughout the legislative process
9. Prepare for and attend Council sessions, committee hearings, and meetings, including preparing briefing materials, taking meeting notes, tracking follow up information, and summarizing findings
10. Interact with constituents to address inquiries regarding City Council legislation and policy priorities
11. Working with legislative team and key stakeholders, draft and edit City Council legislation, resolution, and supplemental materials.

Qualifications:

• Currently enrolled in a graduate program in political science, social science, public policy, public administration, law school, or in a related field.
• Excellent written and verbal communications skills.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Previous experience in government, policy, nonprofits, community development, public affairs, or other related a feels a plus, but not required.
• Proficiency in research and writing about complex policy and legislative topics is key; experience with quantitative and qualitative research and analysis a plus.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

1. Ability to multi-task and manage competing priorities.
2. Ability to work independently as well as in a team.
3. Interest in local government, public policy, and community engagement.

The ideal candidate shares our commitment to racial, social and economic justice and an inclusive organizational culture.

How to Apply:

To apply, please submit a resume, cover letter, and a brief writing sample to Molly Hartman, Senior Policy Director, at [email protected] by December 31. In your cover letter, please describe why you are interested in this fellowship and how your skills and experiences align with the role.

The City of Philadelphia is an Equal Opportunity employer and does not permit discrimination based on race, ethnicity, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, marital status, source of income, familial status, genetic information or domestic or sexual violence victim status. Women, LGBTQ, people with disabilities, and people of color are strongly encouraged to apply. We are committed to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The more inclusive we are, the better our work and our world will be. We are an equal opportunity employer.