Climate Investment Associate / Manager

Vectors Capital is seeking a Climate Investment Associate/Manager in San Mateo, CA, to support their venture capital efforts focused on decarbonization technologies. The role involves investment analysis, program management, and operational support across various sectors including energy transition, data center efficiency, and AI applications for sustainability. Candidates will engage in the venture investment lifecycle, including deal sourcing and portfolio support, within a dynamic team environment.
ABOUT VECTORS CAPITAL

Vectors Capital is a forward-thinking venture capital firm dedicated to investing in groundbreaking technologies that accelerate global decarbonization efforts. We partner with visionary founders building transformative solutions in energy systems, AI infrastructure, semiconductors, industrial innovation, and climate infrastructure. Our unique platform combines venture capital with strategic corporate partnerships, facilitating the scaling of technologies across major global industries. With operations spanning North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, we are poised to make a significant impact.

WHY WE'RE HIRING

As we gear up for the launch of our next fund, Vectors Capital is looking to expand our talent pool across various functions, including investment analysis, program management, ecosystem development, and operational support.

Our upcoming fund focuses on investments within the AI compute value chain and its energy backbone, encompassing the interconnected stack that stretches from chips to data centers to power. We emphasize four key themes:

Energy Transition and the Energy Tech Value Chain - including clean power generation, grid and transmission, storage, and electrification.Data Center Efficiency across the Value Chain - focusing on compute, cooling, power delivery, and the infrastructure layer supporting energy and AI.Semiconductors and Chips - targeting AI compute, power and specialty semiconductors, advanced packaging, and energy-efficient architectures.AI Applications for Sustainability and Net Zero - spanning across transportation, energy, logistics, materials discovery, and other industries where AI can effectively reduce emissions.We welcome candidates with diverse backgrounds across these fields, as well as strong candidates from related climate and deep-tech sectors.

We have openings for Analyst, Associate, and Principal roles. This is a hands-on position within a lean team where members will wear multiple hats in areas such as investment, program management, partnerships, and operations.

INVESTMENT FOCUS

Vectors invests across a broad spectrum:

Energy Transition & Energy Tech Value Chain - clean energy solutions and electrification.Data Center Efficiency - optimizing compute and power delivery systems.Semiconductors & Chips - advancing AI technologies and energy-efficient designs.AI for Sustainability - deploying AI in sectors like transportation and energy.Clean Transportation & Sustainable Fuels - including batteries, hydrogen, and sustainable mobility.Industrial Decarbonization & Biomanufacturing - focusing on sustainable chemical processes.Carbon Capture & Carbon Markets - promoting infrastructure for carbon tracking and credits.Circular Economy & Materials - recycling, material sustainability, and value from waste.Climate Adaptation & Intelligence - analytics and data platforms for climate readiness.THE ROLE

You will gain extensive exposure to the complete venture investment lifecycle, engaging in deal sourcing, due diligence, execution, portfolio support, and ecosystem building. As part of a nimble and entrepreneurial team, you’ll accumulate hands-on experience across venture investing, accelerator programs, and corporate partnerships.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Deal Sourcing & Theses

Foster relationships with innovative founders in the AI-compute-energy space.Conduct thorough market research to develop informed investment theses.Build and enhance networks within startups, research labs, corporates, and venture investors.Investment Analysis & Execution

Lead detailed diligence processes, including market studies and financial analysis.Prepare comprehensive investment memos and present opportunities to the team.Assist in structuring investments and negotiating terms.Senior members may oversee deals end-to-end and serve as board observers or members.Portfolio Support

Collaborate with founders on strategic initiatives, partnerships, and funding opportunities.Connect portfolio companies with corporate partners, customers, and co-investors.Accelerator & Venture Programs

Vectors periodically runs various venture programs, and we seek team members who can contribute to program management:

Source and evaluate startups for accelerator participation.Support founders in fundraising and go-to-market strategies.Facilitate corporate introductions and manage demo day processes.Oversee program operations, including curriculum development and partner coordination.Ecosystem & Corporate Partnerships

We maintain a vibrant presence within the global venture ecosystem:

Boost cooperation between portfolio startups and strategic corporate partners.Represent Vectors Capital at industry conferences and ecosystem initiatives.Assist in organizing firm-hosted events, including logistics and guest coordination.Administrative Support

In our lean operation, all team members engage in essential administrative tasks:

Support internal operations and team scheduling.Assist with investor relations and reporting processes.Maintain CRM tools and deal tracking systems.Aid in scheduling and travel arrangements as needed.WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR

Key qualifications include:

Highly execution-oriented with a focus on results.Bachelor's degree in engineering, finance, economics, business, or a relevant field; advanced degrees (MBA, PhD, or similar) preferred.Strong analytical, research, and communication skills.Intellectual curiosity about emerging technologies and entrepreneurship.Ability to thrive independently in a dynamic environment.We welcome backgrounds in venture capital, investment banking, private equity, consulting, startup operations, engineering, and technical research.

Given our next fund's focus, candidates with experience in any of the following areas will be especially relevant:

Energy transition - power generation and storage.Data centers - design and operational efficiencies.Semiconductors - chip design and power electronics.AI applications in industrial sectors.ML/AI engineering or applied research in functional systems.For Principal-level applicants, we require:

Experience in sourcing and leading venture investments.Capability to autonomously assess companies and market potential.Experience negotiating investment terms and executing deals.A proven history of aiding founders and portfolio firms.Ability to undertake board-level responsibilities; prior experience as a board observer is advantageous.COMPENSATION

Compensation is competitive and based on experience, including salary, bonuses, and opportunities for carry participation:

Analyst / Associate: Base salary of $50K-$100KPrincipal: Base salary of $100K-$180KCarry participation grows with investment contributions and tenure. Team members advancing to Investment Partner roles may enjoy increased participation in the fund's carry pool, typically coupled with a personal LP investment commitment.

WHY JOIN VECTORS

You will be at the intersection of venture capital, deep technology, and global industry transformation:

Support founders developing revolutionary technologies.Collaborate with global strategic investors and corporate allies.Gain insight into international venture ecosystems.Participate in programs identifying the next generation of startups.Pathway to long-term leadership and Investment Partner opportunities.HOW TO APPLY

If you're interested, please prepare:

Your resumeA brief note outlining your interest in climate technology and venture investing, emphasizing any experience in energy transition, data center infrastructure, semiconductors, or AI sustainability applications.Submissions should be directed to Vectors Capital. Please also ensure to complete a ONE CLICK application on LinkedIn first, as applications will not be reviewed without this step.