Public Policy Fellow

SoCal Grantmakers (SCG) is the regional association for philanthropists and grantmakers working to make a difference in Southern California communities and worldwide. SCG's mission is to mobilize philanthropy to learn and take bold actions by acting as a leadership hub for its members to connect, improve their grantmaking, and amplify their independent efforts through collaborative work.

SCG is a philanthropy-supporting organization and nonprofit located in Downtown Los Angeles, California, but that champions effective philanthropy across eight Southern California counties: Los Angeles, Orange, Kern, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and

Ventura. Our community includes 300+ members representing the spectrum of philanthropy, including corporate giving programs, family foundations, public foundations, individual philanthropists, private, independent operating and community foundations, philanthropic advisors, government grantmakers, and grantmaking 501(c)(3) organizations.

SCG also co-leads Philanthropy California, an initiative of Northern California Grantmakers, SoCal Grantmakers, and Catalyst of San Diego and Imperial Counties. Our alliance’s combined membership represents more than 700 philanthropic organizations investing billions every year

to support communities across the state, the country, and worldwide.

Position Overview

The Policy Fellow (Fellow) will work with the Public Policy & Government Relations team for one year, from January to December 2026. They will serve as a subject matter expert on legislation, analysis, and policy communications. The Fellow will assist the Policy Team in keeping up-to-date with relevant policy proposals and actions at the local, state, and federal levels. In collaboration with the Policy Team, the Fellow will develop a list of legislative priority areas in alignment with the SCG Policy Agenda and the priorities of Philanthropy California (the statewide alliance of SoCal Grantmakers, Northern California Grantmakers, and Catalyst of San Diego & Imperial Counties). The Fellow will report to the Vice President, Philanthropy California & Public Policy. The Fellow will not be required to attend recurring all-staff meetings, training events, and staff retreats, among other administrative employee commitments.

Responsibilities

Essential duties and responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:

Public Policy

• Policy research and analysis: Identify intersectional legislation at local, state, and federal levels that will be impactful to the philanthropic sector and Southern California communities; outline support and opposition groups; evaluate legislation for alignment with SCG Policy Agenda.
• Legislative tracking: Continuously track legislation deemed relevant (monitor or official position); flag key opportunities/dates for funder advocacy ahead of time; update SCG Policy Team and/or Philanthropy CA Policy Team.

Communications

• Policy deep dive blogs: Draft policy analysis pieces in collaboration with Knowledge & Communications team; outline policy issues so they are accessible and understandable for a philanthropic audience, offer actionable opportunities.
• Position statements: Draft memos for internal and/or external use describing legislation/initiatives and the impact of an SCG position or action.

Budget Analysis

• State and federal budget analysis: Research budget proposals, specifically in areas related to SCG Policy Agenda areas; identify areas for philanthropic advocacy support; work with Philanthropy CA Policy and Programs teams to develop content for 2026 Budget Season programming.

Qualifications

Masters degree in a related field, or equivalent work experience (2+ years). Excellent research and writing skills; strong attention to detail; ability to multi-task and work under pressure on multiple projects. Experience in the nonprofit/philanthropic sector preferred.

Salary & Benefits

One (1) year fellowship; the fellow will be an at-will employee, which comes with SCG’s benefit package. Competitive salary commensurate with experience, ranging from $68,000 to $72,000. Hybrid/remote work opportunity, with preference for candidates located within SCG’s service area.

• Up to 100% employer-funded comprehensive medical coverage
• 14 paid holidays, including two “floating” holidays.
• In addition, the SCG office is closed from December 24 through New Year’s Day.

Equal Opportunity Hiring Statement

SoCal Grantmakers (SCG) is an equal opportunity employer. SCG is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to color, race, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age or veteran status.

Full Benefits