Organization Description

The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) is the national trade association of the solar energy industry representing nearly 1,000 companies from around the world. Our mission is to build a strong solar industry to power America. We achieve that aim by supporting pro-solar policy at the federal and state level, developing cutting-edge industry research, and speaking as the voice of the solar industry to press and public.

At SEIA, our staff arrives every morning knowing that their work improves our country's energy independence, empowers our member businesses and strengthens our economy through the creation of more than 250,000 U.S. jobs. Combining a strong sense of purpose and a great work environment has resulted in SEIA being selected as one of the “Best Non-Profits” to work for in America.

Position Description

The Director of Congressional Affairs reports to the Vice President of Congressional Affairs. The Director of Congressional Affairs:

• Represents SEIA regarding energy, natural resources, and appropriations policy matters of importance to the solar industry before Congress. Supports related outreach to federal agencies, in collaboration with the Vice President of Regulatory Affairs.
• Coordinates and motivates SEIA members and coalition partners in multiple venues to advance SEIA’s policy objectives on Capitol Hill.
• Supports SEIA’s efforts to monitor issues, advance appropriate policy, and develop and communicate best practices on key issues.
• Develops and maintains relationships with relevant Congressional staff and others involved in the policymaking process.
• Collaborates with SEIA’s Communications team, Federal Affairs staff, and SEIA members to formulate talking points and incorporate communications strategy into SEIA’s advocacy initiatives.
• Produces written materials (memos, fact sheets, talking points) in support of SEIA’s advocacy and regulatory efforts.
• Communicates with SEIA members, organizes committee and working group activities, and responds to member company inquiries.
• Attends meetings and briefings on behalf of the Association, providing summaries and analyses of proceedings and alerting VPs of important issues and deadlines.
• Develops and maintains relationships with relevant Congressional staff and others involved in the policymaking process. Looks creatively for new ways to build support and champions on Capitol Hill.

Qualifications

SEIA is seeking a dynamic individual to join our Federal Affairs team. Qualified candidates will possess:

• A bachelor’s and preferably an advanced degree in political science, law, or other public policy discipline
• 7-10 years of public policy or legislative advocacy experience, including at least 3 years on Capitol Hill
• Particular knowledge and experience working in a bipartisan manner on energy and natural resources policy matters
• Experience working with congressional and energy committee leadership offices
• An open-minded and creative approach to lobbying Congress, with proven skills at gathering legislative information and developing and executing strategic advocacy plans
• The ability to work directly with SEIA members, with excellent organizational, interpersonal and communication skills
• Experience working for and with trade associations
• The ability to work effectively in a collaborative, team environment
• A strong work ethic and cheerful customer-service attitude in order to thrive in our fast-paced, team-oriented environment
• Computer literacy skills (Microsoft Office tools including Word, Excel and Outlook)

To Apply

Please submit a cover letter, resume, salary requirement and writing sample to [email protected] with the subject “2021 Director of Congressional Affairs”. Submissions that are in the form of a single Word or PDF document facilitate review and are preferred.

Please name all files using the following format: "name]_[document title, e.g. Resume]_SEIA". No calls please; direct applicants only, no search or placement firms.

Working at SEIA

SEIA values diversity, inclusion and equity within our organization and the promotion of these values across the solar industry. We strive to welcome different perspectives, identities, and backgrounds, regardless of job function in order to create a more resilient organization that supports a strong, equitable solar industry. SEIA envisions an industry that is committed to fostering a culture of inclusivity. We aim to achieve this by encouraging openness and transparency about diversity issues and progress. We will develop strategies, programs, and tools that seek to equalize opportunities within SEIA and allow for discussing and sharing best practices within the solar industry.

SEIA provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, SEIA complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which we employ staff. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

SEIA expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. Learn more about SEIA at www.seia.org.