Application Guide

How to Apply for Senior Associate, Northeast U.S. Program

at Regulatory Assistance Project

🏢 About Regulatory Assistance Project

The Regulatory Assistance Project (RAP) is a unique global nonprofit that directly advises government officials on energy policy, offering the chance to shape real-world regulations. Unlike think tanks, RAP focuses on actionable technical assistance, making it ideal for those who want to see their policy work implemented.

About This Role

This role drives clean energy policy in the Northeast U.S. by collaborating with state regulators and stakeholders on projects like grid modernization and decarbonization. As a Senior Associate, you'll bridge research and implementation, turning analysis into regulatory action.

💡 A Day in the Life

You might start by reviewing a draft policy memo for a state PUC, then join a call with New York regulators to discuss energy efficiency targets. Afternoon could involve analyzing a utility filing, writing a blog post on regional grid planning, and preparing slides for a conference panel next week.

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🎯 Who Regulatory Assistance Project Is Looking For

  • A seasoned energy policy professional with 8+ years of experience, recognized by peers as a trusted expert in regulatory circles.
  • Holds an advanced degree in a relevant field (e.g., economics, engineering, law) and can translate complex technical concepts for policymakers.
  • Proven ability to build and sustain relationships with state government officials, utilities, and NGOs to advance policy goals.
  • Comfortable with public thought leadership—writing blogs, speaking at conferences, and engaging on social media to influence the energy transition.

📝 Tips for Applying to Regulatory Assistance Project

1

Tailor your resume to highlight direct experience with Northeast U.S. energy regulations (e.g., RPS, carbon pricing, grid planning).

2

Include specific examples of how your policy analysis led to regulatory changes or adoption of clean energy programs.

3

Mention any relationships with state utility commissions, PUCs, or regional grid operators (e.g., ISO-NE, NYISO).

4

Emphasize your ability to work remotely and independently, as RAP is a distributed team.

5

In your cover letter, reference a recent RAP publication or project (e.g., their work on beneficial electrification) and connect it to your expertise.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your hands-on experience with state-level energy policy and regulatory processes, particularly in the Northeast.', 'Your ability to conduct rigorous analysis and translate it into actionable recommendations for government officials.', 'Your network of relationships with key stakeholders (regulators, utilities, advocates) in the region.', "Your passion for RAP's mission and your alignment with their nonpartisan, technically grounded approach."]

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review RAP's recent publications on the Northeast, especially topics like building decarbonization, grid resilience, and energy equity.
  • → Understand the current energy policy landscape in key Northeast states (NY, MA, CT, NJ) and regional initiatives (e.g., TCI, RGGI).
  • → Learn about RAP's organizational structure and how the U.S. Program team collaborates with global offices.
  • → Familiarize yourself with RAP's core principles: nonpartisan, evidence-based, and focused on practical regulatory solutions.
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💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe a time you influenced a state regulatory decision; what was your approach and outcome?
2 How do you stay current with Northeast energy policy trends (e.g., state climate plans, FERC Order 2222)?
3 How would you build trust with a skeptical utility commissioner to advance a clean energy policy?
4 Walk us through your process for developing a policy brief from research to publication.
5 How do you manage multiple projects with stakeholders across different states while working remotely?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic cover letter that doesn't mention specific Northeast policies or RAP's work.
  • Overemphasizing academic research without demonstrating real-world regulatory impact or stakeholder engagement.
  • Failing to show awareness of the political and practical challenges of implementing clean energy policy in the Northeast.

📅 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!

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Good luck with your application to Regulatory Assistance Project!

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