Careers

Strategic Research Intern (Summer 2023)

You: An inquisitive, creative, and self-motivated college junior or senior, graduate student, or recent graduate who knows the principles of liberty and seeks to advance them. You have strong written and oral communication skills and strong data skills and enjoy problem-solving. Your degree is in social science or another discipline with strong emphasis in data analysis training.

Them: Bureaucrats, city councils, mayors, governors, and federal agencies stripping Americans of their rights every day. There’s a lot of government overreach out there, and it’s backed by seemingly endless resources. But fortunately, like all lumbering giants, abusive government is most vulnerable when countered by individuals who act strategically and nimbly, take calculated risks, have each other’s backs, and are confident in and passionate for the cause—the very sort of swashbucklers we employ in spades here at PLF.

Us: We fight back. Pacific Legal Foundation is the nation’s first and most successful public interest law firm dedicated to vindicating individual liberty. PLF has an unmatched record in the United States Supreme Court, with 14 victories out of 16 cases litigated at the Court. We also have more than a hundred active cases across the nation.

We are a next-generation public interest law firm. What does “next-generation” mean for a legal nonprofit? It means we aren’t interested in doing the same thing as everyone else. We aspire to be the best player in a constantly changing game.

Here’s what you get to do in this role:

The Strategic Research Intern will work closely with the Strategic Research and Legal Policy Department. Our research team produces high-quality social science research to support PLF’s mission-driven goals. We coordinate with our litigation, legal policy, and communications teams. This is a paid internship.

This internship provides an opportunity for a wide variety of experiences, including:

• Communicating with public officials to obtain public records.
• Collecting, organizing, and analyzing data using Microsoft Excel or STATA.
• Conducting literature reviews on such topics as regulatory reform, housing supply, property rights, and coastal land rights.
• Developing internal data and literature memos for litigation, communications, or legal policy campaigns.
• Writing blogs or op-eds on topics relevant to PLF’s work.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Pacific Legal Foundation identifies and litigates important legal issues to set landmark precedents that will benefit Americans nationwide. Using strategic and principled litigation, communications, and research, we battle for freedom in the nation’s courts and the court of public opinion.

As a national nonprofit organization, PLF has brick-and-mortar offices in Sacramento, California; Arlington, Virginia; and Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, although approximately half of the staff work from home offices across the country. You can work physically in any of our offices or request to work virtually.

TO APPLY:

If you think you might be a good fit, submit the following application materials in one PDF at the link below.

• Your resume, including your experience in the liberty movement and relevant professional experience.
• A cover letter explaining why PLF is the place for you, why you want to fight for liberty, and what distinguishes you from typical applicants.
• You may also provide an optional writing sample.

Apply

State Legal Policy Deputy Director

You: An experienced policy professional committed to the cause of liberty with a track record of finding creative solutions and promoting them in the halls of state legislatures. Your role is to research, develop, and promote policies that protect liberty and individual rights. You are fascinated by the legislative process and are excited by the opportunity to work with policymakers to make our reform proposals a reality.

Them: Regulatory bureaucrats, mayors, governors, legislators, and others in federal and state agencies undermining or denying Americans’ rights every day. And then there are the policymakers that are with us in spirit but don’t know where to turn for meaningful and effective solutions.

Us: We fight back. Pacific Legal Foundation is the nation’s first and most successful public interest law firm dedicated to vindicating individual liberty. PLF has an unmatched record in the United States Supreme Court, with 14 victories out of 16 cases litigated before the Court. We also have more than a hundred active cases across the nation. We leverage that long history of litigation success along with our strategic research into cutting edge policy solutions at every level of government.

We are a next-generation public interest law firm. This means we aren’t interested in doing the same thing as everyone else. We aspire to be the best player in a constantly changing game.

About Pacific Legal Foundation:

Pacific Legal Foundation identifies and litigates important legal issues to set landmark precedents that will benefit Americans nationwide. Using strategic and principled litigation, communications, and research, we battle for freedom in the nation’s courts and the court of public opinion.

As a national nonprofit organization, PLF has brick-and-mortar offices in Sacramento, California; Arlington, Virginia; and Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, although approximately half of the staff work from home offices across the country. This position can be based in a virtual office but the remote candidate will need to travel to Arlington, Virginia on a monthly basis.

The Pacific Legal Foundation covers 100% of medical, dental, and vision insurance premiums (50% of dependent’s premiums) for all full-time employees. In addition to comprehensive health, a strong paid leave package, and retirement benefits, you’ll find advancement programs, mentoring relationships, and performance incentives to keep your career in high gear. PLF provides training for new hires through a combination of instruction and project experience. Employees are empowered to broaden their responsibilities by taking on new projects and are encouraged to take advantage of ongoing opportunities to learn and explore their individual potential.

About the State Legal Policy Deputy Director Opening:

You will work with the Legal Policy Director, Legal Policy Deputy Director, and PLF attorneys to develop and promote policies that promote liberty and individual rights. You will draft legislation, testify in committees, coordinate with policy allies, write blogs and op-eds, attend conferences, and do media hits supporting our mission and vision.

Getting down to brass tacks, your specific job duties will likely include:

• Working with PLF attorneys and the policy team to develop innovative policy solutions to prevent pernicious discrimination, promote economic opportunity, fight the administrative state, and protect property rights
• Strategizing and working with policymakers to secure policy wins
• Expanding and helping lead the coalition that supports PLF’s reform agenda
• Promoting PLF and individual reforms through writing, speaking, and media hits
• Reviewing legislation and providing technical support to policymakers
• As much as 30% travel January-May to meet with legislators, give testimony, and attend coalition meetings

This role is ideal for someone with:

• 5+ years of experience moving pro-liberty legislation
• A law degree or extensive knowledge of the law
• Knowledge of and a principled passion for individual liberty, one that transcends private or other political interests
• Proof of strong writing and research skills
• A genuine interest in public speaking and legislative engagement
• Willingness to travel approximately 15-20% (and more from January to May)

To Apply:

Qualified candidates should submit the following application materials in one PDF document:

• Your resume, including your experience in equality research and other relevant professional experience
• A cover letter explaining why PLF is the place for you, why you want to fight for liberty, and what distinguishes you from typical applicants
• Two writing samples: 1) research report and 2) something written for a public audience

Applications should be submitted to Talent Market via this link:

https://talentmarket.org/candidates/apply-for-your-dream-job/

There is no application deadline for this position. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. This job will remain posted on our site until it is filled.

Questions can be directed to Katelynn Barbosa, Director of Talent Engagement, at Talent Market, who is assisting with the search: [email protected]

While we thank all applicants in advance for their interest in this position, we are only able to contact those to whom we can offer an interview. Only direct applications will be considered. No phone calls, please.

Talent Market is a nonprofit entity dedicated to promoting liberty by helping free-market nonprofits identify talent for critical roles. We provide consulting and recruiting services at no cost to 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations that clearly and directly focus on advancing the principles of economic freedom, free enterprise, free trade, free speech, property rights, rule of law, and limited regulation.

Apply

Separation of Powers Attorney

You: An entrepreneurial freedom fighter with a passion for, and 3+ years’ experience in, administrative law or civil litigation. You find and win cutting-edge civil rights cases across the country. You will become a national spokesperson for separation of powers—you will speak at conferences, engage the media, and publish scholarship on the structural protections of the Constitution, agency abuse, and the proper role of government. You will fight the administrative state. You are a leader who will elevate PLF attorneys to be the best litigators in the nation. You have a demonstrated dedication to public interest law and civil rights throughout your career.

Them: Federal and state agencies that are abusing their power and stripping Americans of their rights every day. There’s no shortage of agencies that ignore the constitutional separation of powers. But fortunately, like all lumbering giants, abusive government is most vulnerable when countered by individuals who act strategically and nimbly, take calculated risks, have each other’s backs, and are confident in, and passionate for, the cause—the very sort of swashbucklers we employ in spades here at PLF.

Us: We fight back. Pacific Legal Foundation is the nation’s first and most successful public interest law firm dedicated to vindicating individual liberty. PLF has an unmatched record in the United States Supreme Court, with 14 victories out of 16 litigated at the Court, and THREE cases currently pending before the Court this term. We also have more than a hundred active cases across the nation.

We are a next-generation public interest law firm. What does “next generation” mean for a legal nonprofit? It means we aren’t interested in doing the same thing as everyone else. We aspire to be the best player in a constantly changing game.

Here’s what you get to do in this role:

You will generate and lead high-profile cases in PLF’s Separation of Powers Program. PLF’s separation of powers litigation is unparalleled. We’ve won multiple cases before the Supreme Court, guaranteeing individuals their day in court when faced with ruinous fines or even criminal liability. In the past year alone, our Separation of Powers litigators have won cases: wholly eliminating agency deference in Ohio, enjoining a federal minimum-wage regulation, and stopping the FTC from exceeding its authority. You will find and win the next important Supreme Court case enforcing individuals’ rights through the Constitution’s structural protections. Your ideas will help shape PLF strategy by identifying and litigating emerging separation of powers theories. And you will be recognized as a nationwide leader on administrative and constitutional law: giving speeches, attending conferences, appearing on radio and television, and publishing op-eds and scholarly articles on these issues.

You will work on teams with junior and senior attorneys, providing your expertise and knowledge and elevating the talent and skill of our attorneys. You will have the latitude to think big and the resources to execute. You will be at the forefront of shaping the enforcement of the Constitution for all Americans.

In a nutshell, we’re seeking someone who’s passionate about liberty, the Constitution, and administrative law, someone who is confident and magnanimous, and someone who is a bold and relentless freedom fighter.

Getting down to brass tacks, your specific job duties will likely include:

• Finding, developing, litigating—and winning—important separation of powers cases
• Advocating for separation of powers both philosophically and practically; speaking with organizations, trade groups, academia, and media to advance PLF’s strategic goals
• A deep knowledge of the moral and constitutional basis for the Constitution’s structural protections is a huge plus
• Writing persuasive pieces for both scholarly and lay audiences
• Drafting op-eds, journal articles, and blog posts
• Leading other attorneys into battle and helping to set the agenda of the next years of PLF’s separation of powers program.

This role is ideal for someone with:

• Three+ years of experience litigating administrative law and/or civil rights cases
• A track record of successful litigation
• Outstanding interpersonal communications skills
• Knowledge of, and passion for, the ideas of freedom and individual liberty
• Willingness to travel approximately 15%, though this will vary based on the specific circumstances of the role

General Information

Pacific Legal Foundation identifies and litigates important legal issues to set landmark precedents that will benefit Americans nationwide. Using strategic and principled litigation, communications, and research, we battle for freedom in the nation’s courts and the court of public opinion.

As a national nonprofit organization, PLF has brick-and-mortar offices in Sacramento, California; Arlington, Virginia; and Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, although approximately half of the staff work from home offices across the country. You can work physically in any of our offices or request to work virtually.

This is a full-time, permanent position. PLF is committed to recruiting and retaining the highest-quality talent available nationwide, and we offer a total compensation package that includes a competitive salary, medical and dental insurance, and employer-paid retirement savings. We take work-life balance seriously through our generous paid leave and flextime policies. We have a flexible, collaborative, positive, and collegial work environment. We take pride in investing in your future and encourage internal advancement. PLF is the place for someone principled, tenacious, and determined to succeed in positively shaping the future of our country and restoring real limits on government power. Join us. 

To Apply

Qualified candidates should submit the following application materials as a single PDF:

• Your resume, including your experience in the liberty movement and relevant professional experience
• A cover letter explaining why PLF is the place for you, why you want to fight for liberty, and what distinguishes you from typical applicants

Applications should be submitted to Talent Market via this link: talentmarket.org/apply-for-your-dream-job/.

There is no application deadline for this position. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. This job will remain posted on our site until it is filled.

Questions can be directed to Katy Gambella, Director of Outreach of Talent Market, who is assisting with the search: [email protected]

While we thank all applicants in advance for their interest in this position, we are only able to contact those to whom we can offer an interview. Only direct applications will be considered. No phone calls, please.

Talent Market is a nonprofit entity dedicated to promoting liberty by helping free-market nonprofits identify talent for critical roles. We provide consulting and recruiting services at no cost to 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations that clearly and directly focus on advancing the principles of economic freedom, free enterprise, free trade, free speech, property rights, rule of law, and limited regulation.

Apply

System Support Technician (Tier 2 Support)

When Applying: Please include a detailed cover letter with your resume (in one PDF), telling us more about yourself outside of your technical expertise

You:  An experienced System Support Technician (Tier 2 Support) with a passion for helping your colleagues troubleshoot technical issues.  You are determined to master our technology and software and elevate your colleagues’ ability to use them efficiently and effectively.  You are customer-focused and thrive on getting to the best possible outcome for your colleagues.

Them: Bureaucrats, city councils, mayors, governors, and federal agencies stripping Americans of their rights every day. There’s a lot of government overreach out there, and it’s backed by seemingly endless resources. But fortunately, like all lumbering giants, abusive government is most vulnerable when countered by individuals who act strategically and nimbly, take calculated risks, have each other’s backs, and are confident in, and passionate for, the cause—the very sort of swashbucklers we employ in spades here at PLF.

Us: We fight back. Pacific Legal Foundation is the nation’s first and most successful public interest law firm dedicated to vindicating individual liberty. PLF has an unmatched record in the United States Supreme Court, with 14 victories out of 16 cases litigated at the Court. We also have more than a hundred active cases across the nation.

We are a next-generation public interest law firm. What does “next-generation” mean for a legal nonprofit? It means we aren’t interested in doing the same thing as everyone else. We aspire to be the best player in a constantly changing game.

Here’s what you get to do in this role:

You will work with every department in the foundation to support the latest software and technologies.

Getting down to brass tacks, your specific job duties likely will include:

• Provide technical support to PLF staff.
• Upgrading computer hardware and software.
• Performing daily, weekly, monthly, and quarterly reviews of the Help Desk ticketing system (Freshdesk).
• Setup devices for new employees.
• Manage our asset management system (Salesforce)
• Providing escalation support for our support ticket system.

This role is ideal for someone with:

• Three (3) to five (5) years of Helpdesk/Support experience.
• CompTIA+ Certification (Exams: 220-1101 and 220-1102)
• Strong customer service mentality
• You will report directly to the IT Director and will work closely with the Support Team.
• Travel will be required.
• Experience Office 365 (Outlook, Teams, Word, OneDrive), RingCentral, Zoom, Adobe Creative Suite, Salesforce and Asana is a plus—but not required.
• Enthusiastic to master the intricacies of various software platforms.
• An attention to detail is critical.

Finally, you must understand and support the organization’s mission and vision for individual liberty.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Pacific Legal Foundation identifies and litigates important legal issues to set landmark precedents that will benefit Americans nationwide. Using strategic and principled litigation, communications, and research, we battle for freedom in the nation’s courts and the court of public opinion.

As a national nonprofit organization, PLF has brick-and-mortar offices in Sacramento, California; Arlington, Virginia; and Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, although approximately half of the staff work from home offices across the country.

Apply

Summer Clerk Program 2023

You: A motivated and liberty-minded law student dedicated to individual freedom. You came to law school with a vision—to fight for your principles and make a difference. You want to learn about the world of public-interest law from the best.

Them: Bureaucrats, city councils, mayors, governors, and federal agencies stripping Americans of their rights every day. There’s a lot of government overreach out there, and it’s backed by seemingly endless resources. But fortunately, like all lumbering giants, abusive government is most vulnerable when countered by individuals who act strategically and nimbly, take calculated risks, have each other’s backs, and are confident in, and passionate for, the cause—the very sort of swashbucklers we employ in spades here at PLF.

Us: We fight back. Pacific Legal Foundation is the nation’s first and most successful public interest law firm dedicated to vindicating individual liberty. PLF has an unmatched record in the United States Supreme Court, with 14 victories out of 16 cases litigated at the Court. We also have more than 100 active cases across the nation.

We are a next-generation public interest law firm. What does “next-generation” mean for a legal nonprofit? It means we aren’t interested in doing the same thing as everyone else. We aspire to be the best player in a constantly changing game.

About PLF’s Summer Clerk Program

PLF’s Summer Clerk Program immerses you in active litigation, introduces you to public-interest law, and offers you a unique chance to study the constitutional and philosophical framework of liberty. You will enjoy hands-on training as you perform legal research and writing projects in PLF’s three litigation areas: property rights, equality and opportunity, and separation of powers. This is a full-time, paid position with the program running from approximately May 23rd through August 11th (dates are flexible to align with academic calendars). We highly recommend working from our DC Office in Arlington, Virginia for the duration of the program, but we will consider other established PLF offices or a home office arrangement for exceptional candidates.

Your specific job duties will likely include: 

• Drafting legal memoranda on research questions for active trial and appellate litigation.
• Assisting in drafting motions and briefs before federal and state courts.
• Taking part in a training program designed for all summer law clerks, which will typically includes legal writing, oral argument, and seminars.

This role is ideal for someone with: 

• One to two years of law school completed by the spring or summer of 2023.
• Excellent legal research skills.
• A demonstrated interest in the philosophical and constitutional principles of individual liberty.

To Apply: 

If you think you might be a good fit, submit the following application materials in one PDF.

• Your resume, including your relevant educational and professional experience.
• A cover letter explaining why PLF is the place for you, why you want to fight for liberty, and what distinguishes you from typical applicants.
• An optional writing sample.

General Information: 

Pacific Legal Foundation identifies and litigates important legal issues to set landmark precedents that will benefit Americans nationwide. Using strategic and principled litigation, communications, and research, we battle for freedom in the nation’s courts and the court of public opinion.

As a national nonprofit organization, PLF has brick-and-mortar offices in Sacramento, California; Arlington, Virginia; and Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, although approximately half of the staff works from home offices across the country.

This is a place for someone principled, tenacious, and determined to succeed in positively shaping the future of our country and restoring real limits on government power. Join us.

Apply

Constitutional Law Fellow (Fall 2023)

Apply