Director of Congressional Affairs

Job Description

The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) is the national trade association for the solar and storage industry and represents more than 1,200 member companies and 263,000 Americans working across the United States. SEIA is leading the transformation to a clean energy economy and is creating the framework for solar to reach 30% of U.S. electricity generation by 2030. We work with our member companies and strategic partners to fight for policies that create jobs in every community and shape fair market rules that promote competition and the growth of reliable, low-cost solar power.

SEIA does this by supporting pro-solar policies at the state and federal level, developing cutting-edge market research, hosting educational events and webinars, and serving as the voice of the solar and storage industry.

SEIA employees are passionate, forward-thinking leaders who start every day knowing that their work makes a difference. SEIA values diversity and fosters an inclusive, lively company culture that celebrates team success. The association has earned numerous awards for its work and company culture and was named by the Washington Post as a 2023 and 2024 Top Workplace and a Best Nonprofit to Work For by the Nonprofit Times.

Position Summary

In coordination with the VP of Congressional Affairs and the Senior Directors of Congressional Affairs, represent the solar and storage industry on Capitol Hill and in political work on issues related to tax, energy, natural resources, agriculture, and workforce.

Core Duties & Responsibilities

• Analyze data to identify opportunities and threats in the political landscape
• Execute and implement lobbying strategies to promote solar energy initiatives
• Engage with bipartisan congressional representatives and their staff to build relationships and convey our organization’s position.
• Collaborate with industry partners and other stakeholders to build strong coalitions in support of solar energy policies
• Organize and participate in advocacy events, meetings, and conferences
• Monitor, track, and report on relevant legislation and hearings
• Draft policy briefs, talking points, and advocacy materials to support legislative goals
• This person will be a registered lobbyist

Requirements

Professional Experience, Education & Other Qualifications

• 3-5 years on Capitol Hill or equivalent Administration experience possess a “staffer” mindset
• Excellent writing and speaking skills
• Understanding of the congressional calendar, committee structures, and political caucuses
• Understand use of data in storytelling and elements of persuasion
• Familiarity with energy, natural resources, tax and trade issues or willingness to learn
• Extraordinary interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence
• Familiarity with political fundraising rules and requirements

Working Conditions

• This position is based in the Washington, DC office
• SEIA employees in the Washington, D.C. region follow a hybrid remote and in-person office model. Employees work 3 days a week in an office environment and as needed when there are special events or meetings but otherwise can be remote
• Travel is required for this role.
• Frequent speaking engagements

Compensation Range

$115,000 -$125,000 annually, based on experience and excellent benefits package.

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, to create a more resilient organization supporting 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 and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, homelessness, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. SEIA complies with applicable federal, 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 is an EVERIFY employer.