Center on Wisconsin Strategy (COWS)

Outreach Specialist, Energy Policy

The Center on Wisconsin Strategy (COWS) is a national policy research center and field laboratory for high-road economic development, based at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. COWS’ work is collaborative, experimental, and evidence-driven. Working with a variety of project partners, including business, government, labor, and communities, COWS experiments with new ideas in high-road development and governance and disseminates those with promise.

One such idea is the comprehensive energy efficiency retrofit of cities, relying on both public and private capital, and repaying capital costs out of energy savings. COWS is advancing this idea in a variety of cities, some close to enacting it. More information on one of the cities, Milwaukee, is available at www.cows.org/me2. The job is to advance this work in Wisconsin and elsewhere.

Position description

The senior associate, energy policy will report to the center’s director and will have responsibility for drafting reports, briefing papers, and other communications on the Milwaukee Energy Efficiency (Me2) model and related policy efforts. This person will also undertake research and policy analysis, help with grant writing, and coordinate a growing network of stakeholders interested in energy efficiency in buildings. The work will be highly collaborative with colleagues at COWS and other institutions.

This position will be based in Milwaukee or Madison, WI. The position is for 80 to 100 percent time.

Desired qualifications

·          At least two years demonstrated experience communicating and writing to diverse audiences, e.g. labor unions, community and environmental groups, or government agencies.

·          Experience in bringing together diverse stakeholders.

·          Interest or experience in one or more of the following: energy efficiency, law, finance, municipal policy, economic development.

·          Exceptional writing, editing and speaking skills.

·          Strong analytical skills and exceptional attention to detail.

·          Ability to juggle multiple, time-sensitive work assignments, and retain focus on overall goal.

·          Ability to work with diverse people in a team setting.

·          Bachelor’s degree required. Graduate degree in political science, public policy, economics, environmental science, civil or mechanical engineering, or related field preferred.

To apply

Please send a resume and cover letter referencing this job to Matthew Wyndham via email: mwyndham@cows.org. Questions can be directed to Matthew Wyndham on 608-265-8665. Position remains open until filled. To ensure consideration, respond by April 1, 2009.