Policy Associate - Virginia

Advanced Energy United

6d•Remote

About The Position

Advanced Energy United is seeking a Policy Associate to join its Virginia legislative team. The team works with the Governor’s office, lawmakers, state energy officials, and other policymakers to shape and implement legislation that supports procurement and development of clean energy solutions. It communicates the benefits of advanced energy technologies and the challenges that can limit their deployment or access for ratepayers through policymaker engagement, legislation, regulatory comments, coalition relationships, political events, conferences, business roundtables, and funder updates. Reporting directly to the Policy Director, the Policy Associate will drive legislation and support state-level campaigns that accelerate clean energy projects and programs across Virginia. The role involves long hours in Richmond during the legislative session and frequent engagement with lawmakers, member companies, and coalition partners outside the session. The ideal candidate is proactive, adaptable, collaborative, and comfortable navigating evolving political and regulatory dynamics in a fast-paced environment. Prior state energy policy expertise is not required, but interest in energy policy, a foundational understanding of the sector, and effective communication with external stakeholders and decisionmakers are expected. Travel outside the Richmond area may be required approximately 1–2 times per quarter, with willingness to travel up to 15%. This is a full-time, regular remote position. The employee must reside in or around Richmond, Virginia, and in the United States. The anticipated start date is November/December 2027. Starting salary is $64,000.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
0–3 years of professional experience, preferably in policy analysis, campaigns, and/or policy advocacy.
Commitment to and a track record of work aligned with United’s Core Values.
Ability to quickly learn and navigate technical subject matter to inform communication with decisionmakers.
Self-starter with an entrepreneurial spirit; comfortable working remotely, creating new projects, learning about emerging advanced energy technologies, managing an independent calendar, and delivering on high expectations.
Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build productive relationships with member companies, policymakers, advocacy groups, industry experts, regulators, and other stakeholders.
Experience managing confidential information and intelligence.
Excellent oral and written communication skills.
Comfort with ambiguity and changing priorities.
Willingness to travel as needed outside the Richmond area, up to 15%.
Must reside in or around Richmond, Virginia, and in the United States.

Nice To Haves

Experience working on advocacy or policy affecting the advanced energy industry.

Responsibilities

Support the development and execution of state-level legislative and advocacy campaigns.
Research industry insights, state energy markets, political landscapes, policy developments, and key stakeholders to inform advocacy strategies and campaign priorities.
Build and maintain relationships with policymakers, advocacy organizations, coalition partners, industry stakeholders, and regulatory staff.
Support engagement with decisionmakers and communicate United’s policy priorities clearly and professionally.
Use project management tools and internal systems to track progress, manage deliverables, and support short- and long-term advocacy goals.
Maintain organized records and documentation about member companies, lawmakers, advocates, and other stakeholders.
Help prepare updates, reports, and presentations on legislative progress, outcomes, and key metrics for internal and external stakeholders, including member companies.
Assist in drafting regulatory comments in support of legislative implementation efforts.