Application Guide
How to Apply for Research Manager
at Energy and Policy Institute
🏢 About Energy and Policy Institute
The Energy and Policy Institute (EPI) is a unique watchdog organization dedicated to exposing the harmful practices of fossil-fuel and monopoly utility interests. Working here means contributing to a mission-driven team that fights for ratepayers, democracy, and climate progress, with your research directly influencing policy and public awareness.
About This Role
As the Research Manager, you will lead investigations into utility monopolies in California, uncovering efforts to block clean energy and harm ratepayers. Your work will empower allies and journalists with critical insights, making a tangible impact on energy justice and climate policy.
💡 A Day in the Life
A typical day might involve scouring regulatory filings and news for leads, conducting interviews with sources, and analyzing data to uncover utility misconduct. You'd also draft reports or blog posts, coordinate with allied organizations, and field media inquiries to amplify your findings.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who Energy and Policy Institute Is Looking For
- Deep experience in energy advocacy, research, journalism, or politics, with a strong understanding of utility and fossil fuel issues.
- Proven ability to conduct investigative research, analyze complex data, and translate findings into compelling narratives.
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with experience working with allies, reporters, and community groups.
- Self-motivated and able to work remotely, with a preference for being based in California to better cover local issues.
📝 Tips for Applying to Energy and Policy Institute
Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight specific examples of investigative research or advocacy work related to energy or utilities.
Demonstrate your knowledge of EPI's recent investigations and how your skills can advance their mission.
Mention any experience with California energy policy or familiarity with the state's utility landscape.
Showcase your ability to work independently and manage long-term projects, as this is a two-year contract role.
Include links to published work, reports, or articles that showcase your research and writing abilities.
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
['Your passion for holding corporations accountable and advancing clean energy.', 'Specific examples of your research that have led to real-world impact or media coverage.', 'Your experience collaborating with diverse stakeholders, including journalists, advocates, and community groups.', 'Your understanding of the utility industry and the challenges it poses to climate progress.']
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → Read EPI's recent reports and blog posts, especially those related to California utilities.
- → Familiarize yourself with key players in California's utility sector, such as PG&E, SCE, and SDG&E.
- → Understand current California energy policies, including the transition to renewables and utility rate cases.
- → Look into EPI's partnerships with other advocacy groups and how they collaborate on investigations.
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting a generic cover letter that doesn't reference EPI's mission or recent work.
- Overemphasizing academic research without showing practical advocacy or communication skills.
- Failing to demonstrate knowledge of the utility industry or California's energy landscape.
📅 Application Timeline
This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.
Typical hiring timeline:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!
Ready to Apply?
Good luck with your application to Energy and Policy Institute!