Policy Fellow

Role Overview & Responsibilities

Position Summary

The Policy Fellow is a full-time, 12-month fellowship role within Methodist Healthcare Ministries' Policy & Advocacy Department, designed to develop emerging public policy and healthcare advocates.

The Fellow supports all stages of the legislative and regulatory process, including research, policy development, advocacy, and implementation, with a focus on advancing health equity in Texas.

Salary

$58,656 (plus benefits)

Scope and Impact


* Supports statewide and federal policy and advocacy efforts aligned with MHM's strategic priorities


* Contributes research and policy recommendations that inform organizational strategy and leadership decision-making


* Fellowship operates at 40 hours per week and includes significant engagement during the Texas Legislative Session (odd-numbered years)


* No budget authority; project work may influence state or federal policy outcomes

Decision-Making Authority

Works under the direction of the Director of Policy & Advocacy and department leadership.

Exercises independent judgment in conducting research, drafting policy materials, and developing recommendations, with regular guidance, feedback, and approval from leadership.

Interactions / Working Relationships


* Internal: Policy & Advocacy Department, MHM leadership team, and other internal stakeholders (ongoing)


* External: Community partners, healthcare stakeholders, coalition partners, legislative offices, regulatory agencies, and national policy organizations (frequent)


* Participates in bi-weekly mentorship meetings with department directors

Essential Duties and Responsibilities


* Conduct policy research and analysis within an identified policy area at the state and federal level (30%)


* Draft advocacy and policy materials including fact sheets, reports, position papers, presentations, newsletters, advocacy alerts, and coalition letters (20%)


* Monitor and track legislative hearings, regulatory agencies, and coalition meetings; prepare timely notes, summaries, briefs, and reports (15%)


* Design and complete a capstone research project proposing a legislative or regulatory solution aligned with MHM priorities and equity principles (15%)


* Assist with planning, scheduling, and participation in legislative and advocacy meetings, events, and coalition activities (10%)


* Conduct outreach to community partners, healthcare stakeholders, and elected officials related to healthcare and policy initiatives (5%)


* Present research findings and policy recommendations to senior and executive leadership (5%)

Supervisory or Leadership Responsibilities

This position does not supervise others.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications (Required)


* Education: Enrolled in or recent completion (within the last two years) of a Master's or Doctoral program from an accredited institution


* Licenses/Certifications: None required


* Experience:
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