IMPORTANT: This Advertiser has requested that applicants MUST be National Residents / Valid Work Permit-holders. Other applicants need not apply.
Senior Energy Economist
Cambridge, MA - Chicago, IL - Washington, DC
The Union of Concerned Scientists is a nationally prominent science-based nonprofit working on issues we believe to be the greatest environmental and security threats of our time. UCS combines rigorous scientific analysis with innovative thinking and effective citizen advocacy to achieve practical solutions. We strive for a future that is free from the threats of global warming and nuclear war and a planet that supports a rich diversity of life. Our specific focus areas include global warming, renewable energy, advanced vehicle technology, nuclear power safety, nuclear weapons and related security issues, preserving the integrity of science, and sustainable agriculture.
The Position:
Under the direction of the Director of Energy Research and Analysis, the Senior Energy Economist will advance the development of clean energy technologies and policies in the electricity sector through economic analysis and advocacy of electricity sector solutions to global warming. Design and evaluate various energy policies at the state, regional, and national levels to maximize economic benefits and overcome market barriers to renewable energy. Conduct and review economic analyses of energy technologies and policies. Establish and maintain alliances with economists and analysts at other NGOs, and academic and research institutions. Represent UCS in the media and in public and be an outward-facing economic expert on clean energy issues.
Responsibilities:
- Conduct or help oversee economic analyses of various clean energy policy approaches at the state, regional, national, and international levels. Quantify economic benefits (including job creation, investments, manufacturing opportunities, and other economic impacts) of those policies and energy technologies, particularly in the electricity sector.
- Develop, evaluate, and analyze various financial policies and mechanisms for increasing the deployment of renewable energy technologies.
- Plan, design, and conduct appropriate UCS economic analyses, policy briefs, and activities in support of UCS objectives, including the economic impacts of electricity sector solutions to reduce carbon emissions.
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of major economic and energy models and applications to assist and support UCS energy and climate analyses and other activities.
- Assist Director of Energy Research and Analysis in developing research objectives and goals and work with the Climate and Energy Program leadership team to incorporate them in to the department’s workplan.
- Establish and maintain alliances with economists and analysts at other organizations, and academic and research institutions in order to exchange information, share resources and engage in collaborative studies.
- Represent UCS in public forums, conferences and with the media.
Qualifications:
An advanced degree in economics, finance, business or a closely related field is required. In-depth knowledge of economic analysis methods; familiarity with the electricity sector, including electricity generation technologies, policies, and regulations; as well as an understanding of the appropriate use of economic and technical information in the policymaking process is also required. Candidates must be analytically oriented with a strong interest in policy and have excellent written and verbal communications skills. Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with economists and other professionals as well as with policymakers and the public is strongly preferred. Familiarity with the economic costs and benefits of energy policies is desirable.
Experience:
At least five to seven years of related experience, including background in economic analysis of energy policies and technologies. Experience conducting and evaluating economic analyses, and familiarity with energy and economic models and methods, such as the appropriate use of econometrics, input-output models, general equilibrium models and supply chain analysis, is also desired.
