Regulatory & Policy Associate

Mission – Why we exist and why we need you

Geothermal energy holds immense potential as the world's most abundant renewable energy source. Zanskar is leveraging advanced technology to discover and develop new geothermal resources, aiming to make geothermal energy a cost-effective and vital component of a carbon-free electrical grid. We need a dedicated Regulatory & Policy Associate to champion our mission, drive our legislative and regulatory strategy across key states, build essential relationships, and foster commercial growth.

About the Role

This role sits at the critical intersection of political strategy, policy analysis, and stakeholder engagement. The Regulatory & Policy Associate will own active workstreams related to administrative and legislative priorities, acting as a credible external voice for Zanskar in agency proceedings and policy forums. It's a high-ownership, high-impact position on a small, fast-moving team, requiring close collaboration with internal departments (permitting, resource, finance, development) and independent management of external relationships with agency officials, legislators, industry peers, and trade groups.

Outcomes - Problems you’ll solve (Within 6 months)

• Assume primary ownership of key states within the active state portfolio, managing regulatory filings, rulemaking proceedings, and comment letters.
• Establish trust and become a key point of contact with significant agency officials, legislators, and industry stakeholders in assigned states.
• Develop and commence the advancement of legislative frameworks for priority policy objectives.
• Engage with industry peers and trade groups to build coalitions and align on shared policy positions.

Competencies – What we’re looking for

• Government Experience: Minimum 3-5 years in government, public policy, or regulatory affairs (federal or state). Prior experience as a legislative staffer, agency official, or in a direct policy shaping role is essential.
• Subject Matter Expertise: Deep understanding of energy policy, regulatory developments, and industry trends, with the ability to translate this knowledge into strategic guidance.
• Policy Development & Advocacy: Proven ability to build policy positions from inception, draft legislative frameworks and comment letters, and engage directly with decision-makers.
• Regulatory Analysis & Monitoring: Skill in tracking legal and regulatory changes across multiple jurisdictions, assessing business impacts proactively.
• Stakeholder Collaboration: Ability to build trust and leverage relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders, including agency officials, legislators, industry peers, and internal teams.
• Nonpartisan Instincts: Comfort in building relationships and advancing priorities across the political spectrum.
• Exceptional Writing & Communication: Proficiency in producing clear, compelling policy memos, comment letters, and briefings.
• Mission Alignment: Genuine enthusiasm for decarbonizing the energy system and a belief in geothermal energy's critical role. Eagerness to shape the policy environment for its growth.

Education Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Policy, Law, Political Science, or a related field.
• Master’s degree is preferred.

Location and Benefits

• Location: Salt Lake City, UT
• Work Schedule: Full-time, Monday–Friday
• Benefits: Paid holidays, 18 days PTO, medical, dental & vision coverage, 401k.
• Impact: Direct contribution to displacing carbon emissions and growth opportunities within a burgeoning startup environment.