COM-2026-5 Governor's Fellow

Open to:

General Public

NL (35-hour) Work Week

(X98) $75,000

August 3, 2026

August 24, 2026

1

Department of Environmental Protection

Office of Legislative Affairs

401 East State Street

Trenton, NJ 08625

Open to applicants who meet the requirements below.

The Governor's Fellow assigned to the Office of Legislative Affairs supports the Department's legislative and public policy initiatives by conducting policy research, tracking and analyzing legislation affecting the Department, and coordinating with internal and external stakeholders throughout the legislative process. This position provides a unique opportunity to gain experience at the intersection of public policy, legislative affairs, and executive branch government while contributing to the development and implementation of the Department's legislative priorities.

• Researching, analyzing, and monitoring legislation relevant to the Department's programs, policies, and strategic priorities.
• Maintaining and updating the Department's legislative tracking system to ensure accurate, timely information on bill status, legislative developments, and agency positions.
• Assisting in the preparation of legislative analyses, policy summaries, briefing materials, correspondence, talking points, and other documents to support executive leadership.
• Coordinating with Department subject matter experts to gather technical information, assess the operational and policy impacts of proposed legislation, and develop informed legislative recommendations.
• Supporting communication and collaboration with the Governor's Office, members of the State Legislature, legislative staff, and external stakeholders regarding Department legislative initiatives and policy matters.
• Attending legislative, policy, and stakeholder meetings; documenting discussions, tracking action items, and following up to support project completion.
• Assisting with outreach to elected officials and other governmental partners in support of the Department's legislative agenda.
• Contributing to special projects involving legislative strategy, policy development, intergovernmental affairs, and executive initiatives as assigned.

The ideal candidate demonstrates strong analytical and written communication skills, attention to detail, sound judgment, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. Success in this role requires the ability to synthesize complex policy information, collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders, and communicate professionally with executive leadership, policymakers, and technical experts.

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Master’s degree and a combination of established excellence in academics and/or professional achievement; proven leadership ability and potential for further growth; demonstrated commitment to public service; effective written communication skills as demonstrated by writing assignment; evidence of effective teamwork.

NOTE: Applicants may utilize college credits in combination with the indicated experience to meet the job requirements. These credits will be applied on a year-for-year basis with thirty (30) semester-hour credits being equal to one (1) year of experience.

NOTE: All U.S. degrees and transcripts must be from an accredited college or university. All foreign degrees and transcripts must be evaluated for accreditation by a recognized evaluation service by the closing date of this posting. Failure to provide documentation may result in ineligibility.

Appointees will be required to possess a driver's license valid in New Jersey only if the operation of a vehicle, rather than employee mobility, is necessary to perform the essential duties of the position.

As a New Jersey State Department, NJDEP offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Paid Benefit Leave
• Holiday Pay
• Alternative Workweek Program*
• Telework*
• Pension
• Deferred Compensation
• Health Benefits (medical, prescription drug, dental & vision care) and Life Insurance
• Flexible and Health Spending Accounts (FSA/HSA)
• Commuter Tax Savings Program
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
• Tuition Reimbursement*

* Pursuant to the State/Department's policy, procedures, and/or guidelines.

If you are applying under the NJ SAME program, your supporting documents (Schedule A or B letter) must be submitted along with your resume by the closing date indicated above. For more information on the SAME program, please email SAME.gov, or call CSC at  and select Option #3.

To qualify for New Jersey Veteran's Preference/status, you must establish Veteran's Preference through the Department of Military and Veteran's Affairs. Please submit proof of your Veteran's Preference along with your resume as indicated. For more information, please visit…