PSE Healthy Energy is an independent science and policy research institute focused on producing science-based energy and climate solutions that protect public health and the environment. Our team includes experts in science, engineering, and public health working across five key practice areas: Clean Energy Transition, Environmental Public Health, Climate, Energy Equity, and Oil and Gas. We design our research around real-world challenges, proactively connecting our audiences with actionable, evidence-based information they can trust.

Position Overview

The Associate Director of Scientific Programs is a collaborative leader who partners with the Director of Scientific Programs (DSP) to advance mission-driven research and science-policy initiatives focused on energy and climate solutions. This pivotal role combines deep scientific expertise, strategic program management, and strong collaboration skills to drive innovation and impact. Reporting to the Director, the Associate Director will contribute to strategic planning, uphold scientific excellence, foster team leadership, and engage with key stakeholders.

The Associate Director will bring specialized expertise in at least three of the following areas—Clean Energy Transition, Environmental Public Health, Climate, Energy Equity, or Oil and Gas—to elevate the scientific quality and innovation of all program deliverables. Working closely with the Director, this role will champion a culture of high standards and support the seamless execution of research initiatives.

We seek a passionate candidate who embodies four core qualities: a deep commitment to our mission and values, robust scientific expertise, collaborative leadership, and exceptional program coordination. If you possess strong organizational skills, a proven track record in energy, climate, or public health research, and a drive to translate science into meaningful impact, we invite you to apply for this dynamic opportunity.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership Team Tasks and Strategy: Collaborate with the DSP and leadership team to advance organizational goals, contributing to the development and execution of strategic initiatives in alignment with the Executive Director’s vision.
Scientific Oversight: Assist in maintaining scientific rigor, quality, and innovation across all program work products, supporting the DSP in fostering a culture of excellence and ensuring high standards in research processes and quality assurance protocols.
Program Strategy: Support the DSP in shaping the research and programmatic agenda by identifying priority areas, coordinating strategic planning, and collaborating with the leadership team to ensure efficient program delivery aligned with organizational policies, procedures, and contractual guidelines.
People Management and Supervision: Provide direct leadership and oversight to senior and higher-level staff, guiding and mentoring them while supporting the DSP in strategic team management, professional development initiatives, and workforce planning to cultivate a cohesive, high-performing leadership team.
Collaboration, Engagement, and External Positioning: Support the DSP in enhancing the organization’s reputation and impact by representing it externally, building relationships with academic institutions, government bodies, funders, and stakeholders, and communicating research findings through publications, presentations, and conferences. Assist in identifying funding opportunities, drafting research proposals and reports, and preparing progress reports and materials for funders to support outreach and program goals.
Organizational Collaboration and Decision-Making: Foster clear communication within the Programs team and across the organization, supporting decision-making processes and contributing to effective delegation and coordination under the DSP’s guidance.
Project Execution: Coordinate and support the implementation of research projects, including budget management, resource allocation, and proposal review, ensuring timely, compliant, and successful project deliverables.

Qualifications

Education: Master’s degree or Ph.D. in a relevant field (e.g., environmental science, public health, energy, climate science, or related discipline). A Ph.D. is preferred but not required.
Expertise: Advanced knowledge and demonstrated expertise in at least three of the following fields: Clean Energy Transition, Environmental Public Health, Climate, Energy Equity, or Oil and Gas, with the ability to apply this expertise to drive high-quality research and program outcomes.
Experience: Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in climate, energy, or public health research, with at least 3 years in a program management or coordination role. Demonstrated experience leading successful project teams and contributing to the development and execution of strategic research or programmatic initiatives, ideally at the science-policy interface.
Program Management: Proven ability to manage projects, budgets, and cross-functional teams effectively.
Collaboration Skills: Strong interpersonal and communication skills with experience building relationships with diverse stakeholders and fostering team collaboration.
Analytical Skills: Proficiency in research methodologies, data analysis, and synthesizing complex information for diverse audiences.
Policy Knowledge: Familiarity with regulations and ethical guidelines governing research activities.
Funding Experience: Experience supporting grant writing or funding proposals is a plus.

Our Values

Scientific Integrity: We believe in honest and transparent scientific methods and observation, follow rigorous protocols, and only produce and rely upon empirically defensible data.
Communication: We proactively support the exchange of knowledge across disciplines and diverse audiences, and make information sharing accessible, collaborative, and multi-directional.
Impact: We work to inspire, refine, and reform energy and climate policies in ways that protect and benefit society, public health, and the environment.
Justice: We recognize the historical, current, and future distribution of environmental hazards and seek to inform equitable and just solutions for overburdened communities.
Sustainability: We support energy options that adequately address societal needs, minimize harms to the environment and public health, and ensure energy supply for future generations.

Compensation and Benefits

Competitive Salary: Commensurate with experience and qualifications. (Range: $110,000 - $130,000/annually)
Health Benefits: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
Retirement Plan: 401(k) with employer match.
Flexible spending accounts
Flexible time off and 15 Paid holidays
Professional Development: Opportunities for continued education and training.
Work-Life Balance: Flexible working hours and remote work options.

To Apply

Please submit a resume or CV, provide a cover letter, provide responses to question prompts, and provide any relevant certifications in the online portal. Applications received by May 30, 2025 will be given priority review.

Equal Opportunity Employer

PSE Healthy Energy is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, gender identity and expression, marital status, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law.

E-Verify Notice

PSE Healthy Energy participates in E-Verify. We will provide the Social Security Administration, and if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security, with information from each new employee’s Form I-9 to confirm work authorization. Please note that we do not use this information to pre-screen job applicants.