Application Guide

How to Apply for Senior Associate, Commodity Market Transformation - Climate Intelligence Program

at RMI

🏢 About RMI

RMI is a leading nonprofit dedicated to transforming global energy systems for a clean, zero-carbon future by 2030. Its Climate Intelligence Program focuses on high-impact initiatives like methane reduction, leveraging market transformation and policy advocacy. Working here offers the chance to drive tangible change in the energy sector while collaborating with top experts and stakeholders.

About This Role

This role leads analysis and stakeholder engagement to advance low-methane leakage gas markets in the US, directly contributing to global methane reduction goals. You'll shape import standards, build high-trust relationships with key players, and drive market-based solutions that accelerate the energy transition.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve analyzing policy documents to assess the impact of proposed methane standards, then meeting with a coalition of NGOs and industry representatives to align on advocacy strategies. You could also draft a research brief on market barriers, followed by a call with a regulator to discuss voluntary methane reduction programs.

🎯 Who RMI Is Looking For

  • Has 5+ years of experience in energy policy, economics, or engineering, with a focus on oil and gas or methane reduction.
  • Possesses strong quantitative skills and can translate complex data into actionable policy and market recommendations.
  • Demonstrates self-direction and ability to lead projects, including stakeholder engagement with diverse actors (policymakers, NGOs, industry).
  • Is passionate about climate action and understands the role of methane in the energy transition.

📝 Tips for Applying to RMI

1

Tailor your resume to highlight specific experience with methane emissions, gas markets, or energy policy analysis.

2

In your cover letter, mention familiarity with global methane import standards (e.g., EU, Japan) and how they could apply to the US.

3

Showcase any experience building coalitions or managing stakeholder relationships in the oil and gas sector.

4

Quantify your achievements in previous roles (e.g., 'Led analysis that influenced policy in X state, reducing methane by Y%').

5

Research RMI's current methane initiatives (like the Oil & Gas Solutions Initiative) and reference them in your application.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Your specific expertise in methane reduction or energy markets and how it aligns with RMI's mission.", 'Your ability to lead complex analysis and translate it into stakeholder engagement strategies.', 'Your experience working with diverse stakeholders (policymakers, industry, NGOs) to drive change.', 'Your understanding of global methane standards and their potential to transform US gas markets.']

Generate Cover Letter →

🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • RMI's Climate Intelligence Program and its methane-related projects (e.g., Oil & Gas Solutions Initiative).
  • Current global methane import standards (EU Methane Strategy, Japan's LNG standards) and US policy landscape.
  • RMI's approach to market transformation and its theory of change.
  • Key stakeholders in US methane regulation (EPA, state regulators, industry groups like API).
Visit RMI's Website →

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How would you approach building trust with oil and gas companies to advance methane reduction?
2 Describe a time you used quantitative analysis to influence a policy or market outcome.
3 What are the key challenges in implementing methane import standards in the US?
4 How do you prioritize stakeholders when multiple interests conflict?
5 How would you collaborate with other RMI programs to amplify impact?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Focusing only on general climate change without specific methane or oil/gas expertise.
  • Overlooking the need for quantitative skills—provide concrete examples of data analysis.
  • Being too critical of the oil and gas industry; RMI works collaboratively with industry partners.

📅 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:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to RMI!