Senior Associate, Regulatory Reform - Carbon-Free Electricity Program

Rocky Mountain Institute

3d•$84,000 - $103,000•Remote

About The Position

Are you a changemaker 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! Application Deadline: April 27th, 2026 at 11:59pm CT 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 advance affordability for customers and communities, meet load growth with clean energy to enable economic prosperity, and remove barriers to rapid clean energy deployment. 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 a Senior Associate to contribute to RMI’s work on a wide range of potential utility regulatory topics, including ratemaking, utility finance & accounting, cost recovery approaches, alternative regulation (including performance-based regulation), customer affordability programs, utility business models, distributed energy resources, and distribution planning. . A successful candidate for this position will bring strong utility sector expertise. At RMI, you will immediately plug into technical work on topics related to US electricity regulation. Competitive candidates will bring technical experience, networks, and expertise in the following content areas: Regulator and advocate engagement to support bold actions on an affordable energy transition for all, 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 a Manager on the Carbon-Free Electricity Program.

Requirements

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 Distributed energy resources and distribution planning
At least 4 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
Ability to travel 10–20%
Excellent work references
Excellent writing and verbal communication skills
Experience leading projects that involve quantitative analysis

Nice To Haves

Direct experience working in electric utility industry, consulting, campaign-based organizations, or electric regulatory agencies.
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 state policymakers.
Expertise in one or more of the following areas: Regulatory process design to support inclusive and collaborative decision making / Approaches to support customer affordability, including low-income rates, disconnection reforms, and payment assistance programs

Responsibilities

Lead and contribute to data-driven efforts and publications; in particular, identify trends and communicate relevant insights in a clear and compelling manner.
Leverage subject matter expertise to develop solutions in 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, implement and execute on delivery of small projects, tasks, and work streams: 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 as an individual contributor.
Contribute to engagements with key policymakers and other decision-makers to communicate insights and influence the transition to clean energy.
Mentor and motivate project team members and resolve any issues throughout project life cycle.

Benefits

Medical, dental, vision insurance
403b retirement match with immediate vesting
Group life, AD&D, and short- and long-term disability
Optional voluntary life, AD&D and accident plans
Health savings or flexible spending accounts
Fertility and hormonal health support
Mental health and wellness support
Comprehensive leaves of absence (including generous parental leave)
Generous paid time off and sick leave
Paid sabbatical leave
Regional holidays with at least one extended break in each geography
Work from home and home technology allowances
Learning & development opportunities (LinkedIn Learning and an annual individual professional development budget)
Potential for bonuses and merit increases
Discount marketplace (gym memberships, pet insurance, etc.)
Hybrid / remote work options
Team retreats and geographic meetups
Rewards and recognition programs