Lead Midwest Energy Analyst

The Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) is an independent national nonprofit whose scientists and engineers work to solve some of our planet’s most pressing environmental and safety problems. UCS combines technical analysis and effective organizing and advocacy to create innovative, practical solutions for stemming the tide of global warming, sustainable food policy and agriculture, energy and transportation, fighting misinformation and reducing the threat of catastrophic nuclear war.

As Lead Midwest Energy Analyst, you will help guide research and advocacy efforts that shape electricity markets and policies to support renewable energy and other clean energy technologies toward a more flexible and modern electric grid while reducing carbon emissions and reliance on fossil fuels. This work includes:

• research and analysis, writing and communicating of technical reports, fact sheets, and other materials
• preparing and delivering regulatory and legislative comments and testimony
• meeting with policymakers, regulators, and stakeholders
• developing and advocating for clean energy and climate change policy

Responsibilities

Work with Climate & Energy staff on research and projects to advance policy and market support for renewable energy, energy efficiency, and other clean energy technologies in the electricity sector, especially in the Midwest.

Research and advocate legislative and regulatory initiatives on electricity market rules and rate structures, transmission and distribution planning, reliability impacts, electric vehicles, and the integration and expansion of clean energy technologies onto the grid. Advocate for racial equity, ensuring people of color benefit from the clean energy transition.

Identify project strategy and objectives in priority Midwest states. Develop and implement state-specific work plans integrating technical research and analysis, outreach, and advocacy activities. Provide technical and strategic assistance to policymakers, opinion leaders and regional coalition partners.

Develop and implement sound research. Gather and analyze data and write reports and other materials, tailoring for different audiences. Help coordinate peer review and publication. Disseminate materials and information to policymakers, the media, and the public.

Monitor and assess current and ongoing research and trends in the power sector and evolving renewable energy and climate change policies.

Develop and deliver comments and testimony for public agencies and legislators on energy policy issues. Meet with and respond to policymakers, media, stakeholders and the public; respond to requests for model legislation. Track and evaluate relevant legislative bills, policies, and regulations.

Exchange information, share resources and collaborate with advocates, clean energy businesses, and researchers at other organizations, particularly community based organizations, academic institutions, and Hispanic/African American Caucuses in statehouses.

Serve as a spokesperson on energy and grid-related issues. Develop and promote UCS positions at local, state, regional, and national levels. Collaborate with key stakeholders and legislative staff to develop, sponsor, and promote clean energy policies and legislation. Provide expert technical and strategic assistance; present and promote UCS ideas, objectives, and activities on political, environmental, social and economic dimensions of energy issues.

Qualifications and experience

This position requires five to seven years of comparable and relevant experience, including background in research, analysis, and advocacy of electricity sector issues and clean energy and climate policy development. Comprehensive knowledge of energy field is required, with emphasis on renewable energy and power grid technologies, electric industry operations, markets, regulations, policies, and their political, social, environmental, and economic ramifications. Strong and demonstrated research, technical and analytic skills are essential, as is the ability to communicate technical issues to policymakers, advocates, media, and the issue public.

A Master’s degree knowledge of energy or environmental science field, with emphasis on a broad array of both clean and conventional energy technologies, policies and markets is preferred. A demonstrated ability to manage projects effectively and deliver work within a budget and timeline is required. Computer programming experience, including familiarity with forecast modeling of electricity markets and policies is a plus.

May spend extended periods at computer.  Moderate to significant travel primarily within the Midwest is necessary, including 4 to 6 overnight trips per quarter.

At UCS, comparable training and/or experience can be substituted for degrees when appropriate.

UCS is an equal opportunity employer continually seeking to diversify its staff. In particular, we’re dedicated to broadening opportunities for individuals from demographic groups that are historically underrepresented in the sciences and in environmental advocacy. We’re also committed to building an inclusive workplace culture where talented people of widely diverse backgrounds can thrive.  We've adopted this commitment because we believe the inclusion of culturally diverse perspectives will improve our work and produce better societal and environmental outcomes for all, including historically disenfranchised communities. We are actively seeking people who bring diverse backgrounds and perspectives to join us in this work.

Compensation, Hours and Location: This is a full-time position based in UCS’s Chicago, IL office. For those who meet all position requirements, the salary is around $67,500. UCS offers excellent benefits and a rewarding work environment.

To Apply: Please submit a cover letter, resume, salary requirements, how you learned about the position via email to jobs@ucsusa.org and include “Midwest Energy Analyst” in the subject line. Email materials in Word or PDF format only. No phone calls please. Deadline: December 15, 2017 or until filled.