Department: Climate 

Location: Washington, D.C. 

Schedule:  Flexible hybrid, minimum 2 days in-office per week

Job Status: Full-Time

Salary: $100,000-$120,000, plus a generous benefits package

Reports to: Director of Climate Policy

The Niskanen Center

Named “the most interesting think tank in American politics” by Time magazine in March 2023, the Niskanen Center is a public policy think tank and advocacy organization dedicated to strengthening liberal democratic governance and promoting widespread prosperity and opportunity. Based on the scientific underpinning that reducing greenhouse gas emissions is needed to limit the increasing effects of climate change,  Niskanen is a trusted source for research-based, economical, and effective policies that will reduce the magnitude and impact of climate change. Moreover, Niskanen is committed to championing policies that not only mitigate impacts of climate change but also harness markets and targeted government interventions to drive the transition to a decarbonized and abundant energy system. 

The Position

We are seeking a senior transmission policy analyst to expand the Niskanen Center’s growing body of work in transmission policy to bring more clean energy on the electricity grid. The ideal individual will be sharp, communicative, knowledgeable and excited about transmission’s role in the transition to a clean energy grid and enthusiastic about Niskanen’s contributions to advancing meaningful climate policy.  

Key Responsibilities

  • Research and write original studies, reports, white papers, blog posts, and op-eds 
  • Develop and build support for improved transmission policies 
  • Give presentations, participate in panels and media interviews
  • Work independently, collaborate with a team of experts, leverage resources, embrace new challenges, and think creatively about how to use Niskanen’s unique positioning to accelerate decarbonization
  • Analyze federal and state legislative proposals, administrative policies, and regulatory changes
  • Develop and grow relationship with policy and advocacy organizations, coalitions,  policy experts, and other partners and stakeholders

Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree 
  • At least 7 years of relevant work experience (can include internships and graduate experience) 
  • Understanding of energy policy and relevant federal agencies
  • Excellent oral, research, and written communication skills, including ability to translate complex issues for diverse audiences
  • Action-oriented and creative self-starter who can juggle multiple responsibilities and  independently manage long-term projects from conception to completion
  • Proven experience developing, engaging, and collaborating with a robust and diverse network of organizations and experts, such as federal, state, and regional agencies, tribal governments, think tanks, research organizations, and climate advocacy coalitions

Preferred Qualifications

  • Masters or PhD in relevant field
  • Demonstrated experience and expertise in one or more of the following areas:
    • Transmission line or clean energy project development
    • Federal environmental review for energy infrastructure
    • Transmission planning and/or cost allocation 
    • Quantitative benefit-cost analysis for transmission lines
    • Siting processes for multi-state transmission lines
    • Innovative grid technologies such as advanced conductors, grid-enhancing technologies, or HVDC
    • Participation in stakeholder processes and state and federal regulatory proceedings
    • Community engagement 

Benefits and Diversity Commitment

Unlimited paid time off; office is closed on all federal holidays plus the last week of each calendar year; paid parental leave; 100% health, dental and vision insurance for the employee; 403(b) plan with 4% organization contribution, no vesting period; commuter benefits in D.C..

Niskanen Center is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without discrimination of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status. We also seek to expand our professional networks and workplace composition to better reflect our dedication to diversity, equity and inclusion.

How to Apply

We only review applications after the deadline: applications must be submitted by 11:59 pm ET on July 14, 2024. Please include a cover letter, resume, and writing sample combined into one pdf. 

Use the link below to apply. No phone calls, please.

https://jobs.gusto.com/postings/the-niskanen-center-inc-senior-transmission-policy-analyst-64db01fb-0d98-46e3-a23a-4434f8db2e88