Carbon-Free Electricity Program - Regulatory Reform Expert

Job Description:

Are you a leader with a desire to make the world a better place? Are you passionate about the energy transition? Do you want to join a diverse and highly skilled global team where you will make a lasting impact? If yes, then this is the role for you!   

We highly encourage individuals from underrepresented groups to apply!    

Program Overview  

RMI’s Carbon-Free Electricity (CFE) Program supports the rapid and equitable decarbonization of electricity systems globally to support modern, clean economies the world over. We work to facilitate the transition away from coal-powered generation; slow the rush toward gas generation and wisely manage existing gas infrastructure, allowing for decommissioning where prudent; speed the deployment of clean, distributed, and customer-centric energy solutions; and transition utilities to be climate-aligned in their business models and operations. We work closely with utilities, regulators, businesses, advocates, and customers to evolve grid institutions, policies, regulations, business models, and processes in support of the transition to a clean energy future. We employ a unique combination of research, consulting, and collaboration to support individuals and organizations to innovate and implement transformative energy solutions.    

Position Overview  

CFE seeks an Expert on a wide range of utility regulatory topics, including ratemaking, cost recovery approaches, alternative regulation (including performance-based regulation), rate design, utility business models and equitable energy policies.      

A successful candidate for this position will excel in two key areas:  

Entrepreneurialism: At RMI, you will be expected to think creatively and critically about how your team and RMI as a whole can most effectively accelerate the decarbonization of global electricity systems. RMI empowers their teams to be entrepreneurial and self-directed in defining approaches to achieving the team’s goals. Successful candidates will bring a track record of this kind of entrepreneurial work, and an eagerness to deploy that skill at RMI.  

Utility sector expertise: At RMI, you will immediately plug into technical work on topics related to US and/or global electricity sector decarbonization. Competitive candidates will bring technical experience, networks, and expertise in the following content area:  

• Regulator and advocate engagement to support bold actions on equitable and affordable decarbonization, including leading direct engagements with regulators and advocates to explore, assess, and support implementation of innovative regulatory reforms.
• Regulatory analysis and writing to evaluate, propose, and support implementation of complex regulatory concepts related to utility business models to support effective and innovative policymaking and regulatory decision-making  

This role will report to Joe Daniel, Principal on Carbon-Free Electricity.  

Core Responsibilities:  

• Lead and contribute to data-driven efforts and publications; in particular, identify trends and communicate relevant insights in a clear and compelling manner.   

• Drive thought leadership and research efforts.  

• Structure and deliver compelling presentations and written products to bring new insights to the industry and partners.  

• With senior guidance, shape projects from inception to implementation: determine change models, research methods, timelines, resource plans, communications plans, and stakeholder engagement strategies.  

• Utilize a variety of project management techniques to ensure the high quality and timely execution of project deliverables.  

• Lead engagements with key policymakers and other decision-makers to communicate insights and influence the transition to clean energy.   

• Act as the lead relationship manager with project partners and stakeholders and use stakeholder input to prioritize project deliverables and modify timelines.  

• Mentor and motivate project team members and resolve any issues throughout project life cycle. 

• Participate in cultivating and successfully converting business development for small and medium-sized projects.  

Required skills:  

Familiarity with the electricity industry, including understanding of key trends and stakeholder landscape. Expertise in one or more of the following specific areas is preferred:  

• Utility ratemaking and cost recovery  

• Economic and financial issues facing regulated utilities  

• Performance-based regulation and other alternative regulatory mechanisms, including decoupling, multi-year rate plans, and performance mechanisms 

• Rate designs to support energy efficiency, demand flexibility, and electrification  

Required Qualifications:  

• At least 7 years of relevant professional experience in related fields, such as utility regulation, utility strategy, climate or energy advocacy, policy, law, or other fields relevant to the decarbonization of electricity systems 

• Excellent time management, organization, entrepreneurship, and drive 

• Demonstrated track record in a project-based work environment 

Preferred Qualifications:  

• Direct experience working in electric utility industry, consulting, campaign-based organizations, or electric regulatory agencies.  

• Broad and deep expertise with energy, climate, and related topics in non-electricity sectors.  

• Experience working with utilities, regional grid operators, regulators, consumer advocates, DER service providers, community-based organizations and/or other NGOs in the electricity sector.  

• Experience working directly with policymakers at federal, state, or city levels.  

• Expertise in one or more of the following areas: 

• Regulatory process design to support inclusive and collaborative decision making. 

• An understanding of power plant operations and wholesale energy markets (commitment, dispatch, locational marginal pricing, etc.)  

• Approaches to support affordability and equitable outcomes, including low-income rates, disconnection reforms, and payment assistance programs 

Additional Qualifications:  

• Ability to travel 10–20%  

• Excellent work references   

• Excellent writing and verbal communication skills   

• Experience leading projects that involve quantitative analysis  

Location  

We are a remote-ready company with team members around the globe. Our beautiful and welcoming offices are available for meetings or focused work, whether you are traveling through or living nearby. Our U.S. offices are in New York City; Washington DC; Oakland, California; Boulder, Colorado, and Basalt, Colorado. This role can be located from anywhere in the continental United States.   

We provide you with the essential IT equipment plus a one-time home technology payment and a monthly work from home/commuter allowance to ensure you have a comfortable home office set up and necessary supplies.   

We love seeing each other in person! We occasionally gather for shared time together like retreats and learning experiences. Be ready to travel for occasional in-person meetings (and of course, we cover travel costs).  

Compensation    

RMI compensates based on the level and requirements of the role. Salary within our ranges may also be determined by your education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as required by the role, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data. The salary range of this position is $100,000 - $120,000. You would also have an additional 10% bonus target!      

Benefits:     

We offer a comprehensive benefits package adjusted to regional norms, including (for U.S. employment):    

• Medical, dental, vision insurance      

• 403b retirement options (up to 5% match immediately)       

• Life, AD&D, short-term and long-term disability    

• Professional and personal development (including LinkedIn Learning access)       

• Generous paid time off      

• Parental leave       

• Work from home and commuter allowance    

Diversity          

Increasing the diversity of thought, perspectives, ideas and opinions within RMI is a critical change element supporting our long-term sustainability and mission to build a clean, prosperous, and secure energy future.        

We strive for a level of diversity that reflects the communities we serve. Achieving this—regardless of ability, race, ethnicity, ancestry, age, gender, sexual orientation, religion, veteran status, socioeconomic class, educational attainment or other social identities—is critical to the success of each RMIer and collectively as an organization. This ensures that we:        

• Have the different array of thinking that comes from diverse backgrounds and cultures, enabling us to solve some of the world’s greatest challenges.        

• Strive for a culture of inclusion and belonging by treating others with dignity, respect and appreciation enabling them to feel welcomed, supported and valued.        

• Effectively connect, communicate and build long-lasting relationships with decision makers, stakeholders and constituents within diverse communities.        

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.    

About RMI    

RMI is an independent nonprofit founded in 1982 that transforms global energy systems through market-driven solutions to align with a 1.5°C future and secure a clean, prosperous, zero-carbon future for all. We work in the world’s most critical geographies and engage businesses, policymakers, communities, and NGOs to identify and scale energy system interventions that will cut greenhouse gas emissions at least 50 percent by 2030. RMI has offices in Basalt and Boulder, Colorado; New York City; Oakland, California; Washington, D.C.; and Beijing.   

RMI is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.