2025-2026 Local Government Management Fellowship

Program Purpose

The goal of the Local Government Management Fellowship is to encourage recent college graduates to consider a career in professional local government management by providing opportunity for real-world experience. The fellowship offers the opportunity to work with municipal leaders, gain exposure to municipal operations, and contribute to meaningful projects that directly benefit the community. 

In addition to work in the Village Manager’s Office, the fellowship will include behind-the-scenes insights into the operations of our police and fire departments as well as major infrastructure projects, fiscal management, human resources, construction permitting, community events, and more. Fellows will be invited to experience all aspects of local government through projects, tours, events, and shadowing with all Village Departments. Fellows will also get to experience the public policy process through public meetings and work with community stakeholders.

Eligibility

Applicants must be a Fall 2024 or Spring 2025 graduate from an undergraduate or graduate institution or be currently enrolled in a graduate program in a relevant field.

Professional Development

The Fellowship includes membership in the International City/County Managers Association (ICMA), the Illinois City/County Managers Association (ILCMA), and Illinois Association of Municipal Management Assistants (IAMMA). During the Fellowship, opportunities will be provided to attend local professional development events during the workday.

Overview of Work Activities

• Participate on Communications and Rapid Response team to create and plan content highlighting positive news and information to be shared on various communications platforms, including social media.
• Assist in preparation of Village Manager’s Office and Mayor and Commission’s budget, including justifications for purchase of capital items.
• Provide staff assistance to Plan Commission on development and annexation proceedings.
• Write and edit the weekly Status and Information report highlighting Village activities as information for Village Board, Department Heads, and all Village staff.
• Write/Publish monthly e-newsletter for Village residents. Write articles for the Village’s monthly newsletter, the “Villager.” Provide updates to and help maintain the Village’s website (www.elkgrove.org). 
• Compile & edit the Village’s annual report, showcasing accomplishments, major events, and operational activities.
• Assist in planning programs and events as part of the Village’s Employee Engagement initiative
• Assist in coordination of and day-of operations for special events, including concert series, Oktoberfest, and more.
• Investigate citizen complaints regarding municipal and utility services.  Coordinate responses with operating departments when necessary.  Draft responses to citizens.
• Perform research to support Human Resources in the updating of job descriptions and other materials, and assist with special Human Resources projects on an as-needed basis.
• Manage wellness programs and initiatives as member of Employee Wellness Committee.
• Track/evaluate data for contract services, including waste/recycling collection and public transportation.
• Conduct research and prepare draft letters and reports for Village officials. 
• Review and update promotional and informational materials distributed to residents and businesses, including the Village websites.
• Numerous special projects requiring research and gathering of information; interaction with operating departments for input and implementation.
• This position provides an opportunity to interact with administrative staff, department heads, elected officials, advisory board members, professional organizations, developers, business owners, and residents. 
• Draft letters of support/opposition related to pending State and Federal legislation.
• Other duties as assigned.

Work Schedule

Monday – Friday, 8:30am – 5:00pm (one hour lunch); Additional evening/weekend hours as duties require.

Compensation

$21.70 per hour for first 6 months; $22.62 per hour for next 6 months; plus health/dental/vision benefits

Commitment

The Local Government Management Fellowship is a one-year program beginning on May 27, 2025, and ending on May 22, 2026. Fellows are required to make a minimum 10-month commitment to the position.

Opening Date: March 18, 2025                                             Closing Date: April 18, 2025

To apply, visit www.elkgrove.org and select the Open Positions button on the home page or visit our careers website at elkgrove.bamboohr.com/careers. Applications are due by 5:00 PM on Friday, April 18, 2025. Please attach your resume and references, as indicated. Those candidates who meet the above qualifications may be contacted for an interview.

All other inquiries should be directed to: Maggie Jablonski, Deputy Village Manager, Elk Grove Village, 901 Wellington Avenue, Elk Grove Village, Illinois 60007.

Email: mjablonski@elkgrove.org                               Phone: 847-357-4006

Salary : $22 - $23