Hybrid Program Counsel — Campus Rights Advocacy

Glendale Fire Department; Philadelphia (Philadelphia County); Hybrid; USD 57,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE) is seeking an attorney (Program Counsel) or non-attorney advocate (Program Officer) to join its Campus Rights Advocacy team, based in Philadelphia, PA, or Washington, DC. The role supports daily operations, reviews case submissions, and helps craft advocacy plans in coordination with the Director and senior staff.

Responsibilities include drafting letters, handling FOIA requests, public advocacy, and serving as a press contact.

Qualifications

• Proficiency in general First Amendment law and familiarity with its underlying principles; campus speech law desired.
• Familiarity with due process concepts.
• Experience with FOIA/state public records laws or discovery/document review preferred.
• Understanding of university conduct codes and administrative structure.

Responsibilities

• Review case submissions from students, student organizations, and faculty.
• Develop advocacy plans and coordinate with internal departments.
• Draft and review letters to universities and accrediting agencies.
• Publish public advocacy content and respond to media inquiries.
• Serve as primary press contact and handle FOIA requests as needed.
• Identify potential litigation candidates in coordination with CRA and litigation teams.

Skills

First Amendment law

Legal research

Writing

Public speaking

Attention to detail

Interpersonal skills

Independent work

Oral advocacy

Education

J.D. from ABA-accredited law school

Bachelor’s degree

Job description

The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE) is seeking an attorney (Program Counsel) or non-attorney advocate (Program Officer) to join its Campus Rights Advocacy team, based in Philadelphia, PA, or Washington, DC. The role supports daily operations, reviews case submissions, and helps craft advocacy plans in coordination with the Director and senior staff.

Responsibilities include drafting letters, handling FOIA requests, public advocacy, and serving as a press contact.