Senior Climate Policy Advisor

State of Washington • Olympia, WA

71d • $110,000 - $135,000 • Remote

About The Position

The Senior Climate Policy Advisor is a strategic and high-impact role serving as the Commissioner's primary advisor on all matters related to climate change and its intersection with the insurance marketplace in Washington State. Positioned within the Policy and Legislative Affairs Division and reporting directly to the Deputy Commissioner, this role is central to advancing the agency's climate agenda and shaping the future of climate policy in insurance regulation. As the agency's lead climate expert, you will drive the development and implementation of innovative strategies that align with the Office of the Insurance Commissioner's (OIC) mission to protect consumers, the public interest, and the state's economy through fair and effective oversight. From crafting forward-thinking policy recommendations to representing the Commissioner in high-level meetings, task forces, and legislative hearings, this position requires both subject matter expertise and strategic acumen. You will engage with stakeholders across local, national, and international platforms-including government agencies, the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), and public-private partnerships-to build collaborations that address the growing risks and opportunities associated with climate change. Your work will shape regulations, influence legislation, and support the development of data-driven, consumer-focused solutions. This is a unique opportunity to lead in one of the most critical policy arenas of our time-climate resilience in the insurance industry-while contributing meaningfully to public service and regulatory innovation in Washington State.

Requirements

• Six (6) or more years of professional experience in a business, government, or legislative setting doing climate related public policy research, analysis, or development.
• One (1) year experience researching and providing information to testify before governing boards and legislative committees.
• Intermediate level in Microsoft Outlook, Word, PowerPoint and Excel.

Nice To Haves

• Juris Doctorate from an accredited law school.
• Two or more years of professional experience drafting legislation and/or rules.
• Master's degree or other advanced degrees in law, political science, public/business administration, energy, climate, or environmental policy, or other relevant field.
• Two or more years of professional experience reviewing and interpreting legislation, rules, policies, technical papers, or legal documentation.
• Broad experience with insurance products, claims, marketing, and regulations.
• Working experience with federal and state regulatory requirements related to insurance.
• Active member of a State Bar Association.
• Working experience with the National Association of Insurance Commissioners.
• Advanced or above software skills in Microsoft Office Products (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Maturity and confidence in dealing with elected public officials, other state and federal agencies and industry representatives, senior and high-ranking members of government, non-government, national/international organizations, and the public.
• Demonstrated experience with current international, national, and state climate issues.
• Knowledge and understanding of the organizational and political climate to make decisions and take actions that satisfy diverse interests and contribute effectively to organizational goals.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the Commissioner's primary advisor on climate policy and climate-related insurance issues.
• Provide strategic support to the Commissioner, including preparing briefings, speeches, and presentations.
• Represent the agency at conferences, legislative hearings, and national/international working groups (e.g., UNEP, SIF, NAIC, IAIS).
• Act as the main point of contact for legislators, consumer groups, and stakeholders on climate issues.
• Lead development of climate strategies and initiatives aligned with the Commissioner's policy goals.
• Coordinate Washington insurers' participation in the NAIC Climate Risk Disclosure Survey and report findings.
• Support rulemaking and cross-divisional projects with climate subject matter expertise.
• Monitor and analyze climate-related legislation and regulations; provide executive recommendations.
• Collaborate with federal, state, and international partners on emerging climate and insurance policies.
• Deliver public testimony, draft legislation, and represent the agency in key climate discussions.
• Stay current on climate and insurance trends; contribute to agency strategic planning.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package: Health, dental, vision, retirement, paid leave (vacation, sick, etc.) and much more!
• Supportive work environment: We value diversity, professional growth, and collaborative atmosphere.
• Wellness programs: Invest in your well-being with on-site resources and initiatives.
• Work-life balance: Flexible schedules with telework opportunities.
• Public service fulfillment: Contribute to a cause that matters and feel the satisfaction of serving the public good.
• Training & Development: Continuously learn and grow with tuition reimbursement, Public Service Loan Forgiveness, and other programs.
• Free parking (Tumwater) & Public transportation pass (Thurston County): Save on commuting costs.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Industry: Administration of Economic Programs
• Education Level: Master's degree