Local and Community Energy Efficiency Associate

The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE), a leading national nonprofit energy efficiency research organization based in Washington, D.C., seeks an experienced person to coordinate work with local communities as part of ACEEE's Energy Policy team. 

This new position will involve research about local community energy efficiency programs, outreach to local communities, and assistance to these communities. This person will also help support ACEEE's federal and state policy activities. ACEEE is dedicated to advancing and deploying energy efficiency technologies, policies, and programs as a means of promoting economic prosperity, energy security, and environmental protection.

Position Overview:

ACEEE is looking for a dynamic, self-motivated individual with experience and skills in conducting research and managing projects to support local communities, including those that were funded to advance energy efficiency under the national Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Program.

This will be a cross-cutting position working closely with many of ACEEE's research programs including federal and state policy and programs, buildings, transportation, industry, economic analysis, and utilities.

ACEEE has begun some critical initiatives in this area and recently obtained funding to expand and enhance our work addressing the needs of regional and local communities throughout the country as they implement energy efficiency plans and programs.

The position is full time and will be based in ACEEE's office in downtown Washington, D.C.

Responsibilities: 

The Communities Program Associate will be responsible for leading ACEEE's local community work which may include:

• Work with other staff to develop program priorities and work plans, and manage implementation of these work plans.
• Lead research projects related to:

1. Determining and documenting energy efficiency best practices and programs in targeted towns, cities, and regions; 
2. Developing and maintaining network of national and local leaders/contacts; 
3. Developing community-focused Web-based resources;
4. Maintaining good working relationships with regional energy efficiency organizations as partners;
5. Actively communicating and advancing energy efficiency opportunities to local communities as broadly and creatively as possible using print media, blogs, newsletters, and presentations at regional and national forums.

• Work closely with ACEEE program directors on cross-cutting projects (especially our State Clean Energy Program Team) and help to integrate a local community aspect to the work of other programs. 
• Depending on funding, help hire and supervise a Research Assistant. 
• Help with fundraising to support our local communities work.
• Assist with national and state policy work, particularly work that relates to local communities.

Qualifications:

• Master's or equal professional degree from an accredited college or university in an energy or policy-related field. 
• 3 years experience in energy and/or environmental field, including experience working on energy efficiency programs and policy at the local municipal and community levels. 
• Familiarity with state and utility energy efficiency regulations, programs, policies and practices. Familiarity with national programs and policies is also desirable. 
• Demonstrated ability to develop and lead implementation of complex projects.
• Proven ability to build consensus and work effectively within a cross-departmental team. Proven ability to meet project deadlines. 
• Set of accomplishments that demonstrate leadership and an ability to have an impact in terms of advancing energy efficiency.
•  Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills. 
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively as well as independently. 
• Zest for the challenge of working as part of a dynamic and growing organization.

Compensation: Commensurate with qualifications and experience, plus ACEEE's generous fringe benefit package, which includes a cafeteria-style benefits plan.

To Apply:

Please email a resume with cover letter and short writing sample. Please use "Energy Efficiency Communities Associate" in the subject header.  Position will be filled as soon as a suitable candidate is found.