Government Affairs Manager

Vicinity Energy Overview

Vicinity Energy is North America’s largest provider of district energy solutions, offering low-carbon energy to many iconic buildings in the skylines of Boston, Cambridge, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and other U.S. cities. As members of the communities we serve, we understand our critical role in reducing climate change impacts and leading in decarbonization. Committed to net zero and eliminating reliance on fossil fuels, we aim to recruit the best minds to achieve our goals for our company, customers, communities, and planet.

Job Summary

Vicinity Energy is seeking a dynamic, experienced Government Affairs Manager to support the company’s strategic growth and sustainability objectives. This role involves:

• Developing and executing a government affairs strategy.
• Monitoring legislative and policy landscapes.
• Positioning Vicinity Energy as a leader in urban decarbonization.

The Government Affairs Manager reports to the Vice President of Government Affairs and collaborates with the Chief Sustainability Officer, Chief Customer Officer, and legal team. This full-time, exempt role is based in Baltimore, MD, with a compensation range of $90,000 – $140,000, plus a 20% bonus target.

Responsibilities

Strategic Positioning and Policy Advocacy

• Analyze political and legislative landscapes to identify opportunities and risks.
• Develop and execute a government affairs strategy aligned with company objectives.
• Build relationships with government officials, policymakers, and industry organizations.
• Draft public comments, letters, and policy proposals.
• Serve as a subject matter expert on energy and climate policy.

Stakeholder and Community Engagement

• Cultivate relationships with community leaders and local stakeholders.
• Plan and execute outreach strategies for transparency and project support.
• Participate in community events to enhance Vicinity’s presence.

Business Development Support

• Partner with the business development team to identify expansion opportunities.
• Advocate for legislative or regulatory changes to support market growth.
• Assist in proposal development and strategic partnerships.

Legal Support

• Collaborate with the legal team to analyze legislation and regulations.
• Provide input on regulatory filings and compliance matters.

Communications and Thought Leadership

• Align internal and external messaging on policy issues.
• Represent Vicinity at events, conferences, and stakeholder meetings.
• Support marketing efforts with thought leadership content.
• Deliver updates to senior leadership on government affairs priorities.

Qualifications

Required Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in Public Administration, Environmental Policy, Business, or related field. Master’s Degree or J.D. preferred.
• 5+ years in public policy, with experience in government, energy, or environmental policy a plus.

Desired Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong knowledge of legislative and regulatory processes.
• Superior writing, public speaking, and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to develop and execute strategic initiatives.
• Passion for clean energy and sustainability.
• Expertise in cross-functional team management.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and video/telecommunications platforms like MS Teams, Zoom, and Webex.
• Persuasive communication and influence skills.
• Collaborative and independent work capabilities.

Benefits

• Personal Leave: Up to 12 weeks FMLA (unpaid, with approval).
• Paid Time Off (PTO): 120 hours annually (4.62 hours per pay period).
• Sick Leave: 40 hours annually, prorated by hire date.
• Paid Parental Leave: 100% pay for up to 160 hours.
• Holidays: Seven paid holidays and 40 floating holiday hours annually.
• 401K Plan: Includes Roth option with matching contributions (100% of first 1% and 50% of the next 5%).

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Vicinity Energy is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer, providing equal opportunities to all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or genetic information.

Vicinity is committed to fostering an inclusive environment. We encourage candidates to apply, even if they do not meet every qualification. If this role aligns with your skills and aspirations, we’d love to hear from you!

Learn more here