Sustainability Policy & Programs Lead

Salt River Project, or SRP, is a community-based, not-for-profit organization providing affordable water and power to more than 2 million people in central Arizona.  

It’s made up of two separate organizations: the “Association,” a private water corporation founded in 1903, and the “District,” an electricity provider formed as an agricultural improvement district and a political subdivision of the State of Arizona in 1937. By providing these essential resources for more than a century, we’ve helped the Phoenix metropolitan area develop and thrive. 

SRP is one of the largest public power and water utilities in the U.S. providing electricity to approximately one million customers in the greater metropolitan Phoenix area. Since its founding in 1903, SRP has fostered a culture of stewardship and customer service consistently ranking as an industry leader in customer service according to J.D. Power. SRP continues to adapt to its changing business environment by seeking innovative ways to reimagine utility service and the provision of critical resources essential to the life and economy of Arizona.

Job Brief

The Sustainability Policy & Programs Lead plays a crucial role in developing and implementing SRP’s sustainability strategy and programs. Responsible for developing and implementing a data governance structure and process to track and validate progress toward SRP’s 2035 sustainability goals. Coordinates and oversees internal corporate sustainability strategy programs. Represents SRP with internal and external audiences, applying industry knowledge and experience to advance strategic objectives, facilitate employee, customer and shareholder engagement while ensuring SRP's business interests are served. Monitors and analyzes relevant trends, regulatory action, and other activities. Develops recommendations on critical issues and strategies for implementation. Oversees team of SRP employees and contractors responsible for SRP’s GHG inventory and internal sustainability programs.

Job Responsibilities

• Work with internal and external stakeholders to develop and implement sustainability strategy.
• Manage data collection, management, and reporting related to SRP’s sustainability programs and goals.
• Track and analyze internal data and metrics. Work with corporate ITS and internal business areas to lead the implementation and expansion of improved sustainability data management practices.
• Perform internal and external sustainability benchmarking activities to help SRP understand how we compare to other utilities and organizations.
• Act as project manager for large organization-wide projects and initiatives.
• Develop SRP's sustainability communications and reporting efforts via print, social media and the internet.
• Lead regular development of a greenhouse gas inventory documenting SRP’s carbon footprint.
• Conduct research on a variety of sustainability issues including sustainability goals, greenhouse gas emissions, reporting frameworks, workforce trends, employee engagement, and others.
• Inform SRP decision-makers of emerging sustainability trends by creating succinct research pieces and presentations.
• Participate in internal technical teams and external industry sustainability groups.
• Assist in the development/management of internal employee engagement programs and events.
• Oversees the development and implementation of employee development plans.
• Ensures departmental compliance with all applicable corporate policies and procedures.

Qualifications

Education:

• Completion of a Bachelor's Degree from an accredited institution that prepares the employee for the assignment.

Experience:

• 8 years professional experience in related field.

Additionally:

• Must demonstrate strong communications skills; familiarity with sustainability trends; and an understanding of Greenhouse Gas Protocols and sustainability reporting frameworks.
• Database management and analysis experience preferred.

Why Work at SRP

SRP's success is rooted in our employees' happiness, health and safety. That's why we offer a comprehensive benefits package to meet the needs of our employees and enhance their well-being. In addition to competitive pay and performance incentives, eligible employees can take advantage of the following benefits:

• 401(k) plan with employer matching
• Retirement pension
• Paid vacation
• Parental leave
• Holiday pay
• Sick leave
• Medical, vision, dental and life insurance
• Wellness programs
• Pre-tax benefits
• Short and long-term disability plans
• Tuition assistance

Hybrid Workplace

SRP currently offers a hybrid workplace, which allows employees whose jobs can be performed remotely, and who have sufficient technical capability, to telework up to three days per week. Although part-time teleworking is available, all employees must live and work in Arizona. We are taking steps to protect the health and well-being of all team members, and by following a number of health and safety protocols, to reduce the risk of the coronavirus (COVID-19).

Note: All candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Currently, SRP does not sponsor H1B visas.

Drug/Alcohol Policy Statement

In order to promote the safety and well-being of our employees, customers and the communities we serve, SRP is committed to maintaining a drug/alcohol free work environment. Although marijuana may now be legal in Arizona, except as otherwise specified under Arizona law, SRP considers it to be an illegal drug for the purpose of our drug/alcohol policy because marijuana remains illegal at the federal level. Any candidate found to be impaired during the hiring process or who has the presence of an illegal drug or unauthorized substance in their system during the pre-employment drug/alcohol test may be disqualified from further consideration in the hiring process.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

Salt River Project (SRP) recognizes diversity and inclusion as key drivers of innovation and growth, and seeks to attract a diverse employee base that reflects our community. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, military status or any other protected status under applicable federal, state or local law. Ultimately, SRP aspires to fully apply the power of diversity and inclusion to build a more equitable and sustainable future for our customers, employees and community.