Senior Associate, Transmission Policy

Fresh Energy is seeking a Senior Associate, Transmission Policy in St Paul, MN. This role supports policy and advocacy for transforming the electric grid, focusing on regional transmission organizations. Responsibilities include engaging in stakeholder forums, regulatory filings, and developing strategies for a carbon-free grid. Candidates should have at least three years of relevant experience and strong communication skills. The starting salary is between $57,500 and $70,000.
Description



The Senior Associate, Transmission Policy, supports Fresh Energy’s policy and advocacy efforts focused on the transformation of the wholesale electric grid, with a particular emphasis on engagement in regional transmission organizations and related regulatory forums. This role is responsible for helping develop and implement strategic initiatives that advance Fresh Energy’s goals for a carbon-free, modernized grid that supports the integration of clean energy resources across the region. Under the direction of the Managing Director for Transmission Policy, the Senior Associate will be responsible for a portfolio of policy and programmatic activities related to wholesale transmission planning, market design, and reliable operations at the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) and/or the Southwest Power Pool (SPP). Responsibilities include engaging in stakeholder forums, assisting with regulatory filings and technical comments, representing Fresh Energy in external coalitions and policy settings, and cultivating relationships with decision-makers and MISO and/or SPP stakeholders.



Key Responsibilities



Develop and continually advance expertise in policy related to transmission planning, reliable operations, and wholesale market design as a crucial element in decarbonizing the electric sector.
Work with the Electricity team and our regional partners to develop MISO and/or SPP regional grid and wholesale market strategy, based on your analysis, and execute on that strategy through written and oral advocacy.
Become a valued member of the MISO and/or SPP Environmental Sectors by learning to navigate MISO and/or SPP's complex stakeholder engagement processes and participating in them actively on behalf of Fresh Energy alongside our regional partners.
Conduct policy, legislative, legal, technical, regulatory, and financial analysis as related to policy proposals, changes, and approaches.
Make written and oral presentations to collaborators, community groups, policy makers, and other stakeholders as part of the program’s outreach and advocacy functions.
In collaboration with the communications department, create and publish reports, white papers, web content, e-newsletters, and other program information.


As a Senior Associate:



Independently execute projects that generate outcomes and help achieve specific organizational targets.
Actively participate in setting team targets and report on targets with minimal assistance from supervisor.
Actively participate in cross-department and organization-wide initiatives and opportunities to engage with external partners.



Skills, Knowledge and Expertise


Skills & Abilities:


Demonstrated ability to plan and implement work with a high level of independence.
Ability to collaborate effectively with strong emotional intelligence.
Strong communication skills.
Excellent attention to detail.
Strong diplomatic skills.




Minimum Education & Experience:


Three or more years of relevant professional experience.
Experience meeting annual targets.
Bachelor’s degree in relevant field.



Benefits


STARTING SALARY RANGE:


$57,500 - $70,000 based on experience along with opportunity for an annual salary change based on organization budget, its performance, equity across teams, and organizational strategy.




We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa at this time.


A 36-hour work week where every Friday is a half-day.
Front-loaded personal time off (PTO) starting at 24 days for the first year.
15 Holidays which includes a winter break from December 24 – January 1.
Excellent benefit plans with Fresh Energy paying 90% of employee’s medical and 100% of dental as well as 50% for employee’s dependent in the same plan.
Flex Spending Account (FSA) or Health Spending Account (HAS) Employer contribution of $1,200 for single plans and $2,400 for family.
Fresh Energy pays for LTD and life Insurance and offers an employee paid vision plan.
Contributes 5% towards an employee’s retirement plan; also matches 100% of employee’s contribution up to 3% beginning the first day of employment. Employee’s are fully vested on day 1.
Incentivizes biking, walking and the use of transit. Fresh Energy also has a parking program for employee with personal vehicles.
Maintains a state-sponsored Paid Family Medical Leave of which 6 weeks are supplemented by Fresh Energy to ensure staff are paid full salary. Additional leaves are available.
A one-time $300 home office expense incentive.
Cell phone reimbursement plan.
A professional development budget.


Fresh Energy’s Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and Equal Opportunity Employer Policy reflect our commitment to ensure equality, treat everyone with respect, and promote diversity in the workplace.




About Fresh Energy




Fresh Energy is a Minnesota-based nonprofit organization with a mission to shape and drive bold policy solutions to achieve equitable carbon-neutral economies.




For more than 30 years, Fresh Energy has been a north star leader advancing a swift, equitable transition to clean energy in Minnesota and beyond. We’re working to decarbonize Minnesota’s five primary economic sectors—electricity, buildings, transportation, heavy industry, and agriculture—by designing and advocating for policies, advancing implementation in key venues, and informing and inspiring the public through multifaceted communications.




Together, we are committed to ensuring Minnesota has a carbon free economy by mid-century and vibrant quality of life where all can thrive. As we conduct our work, Fresh Energy lives its core values, creating a dynamic and welcoming workplace.