Philanthropic Advisor (Part-Time)

Overview

PowerLines is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to modernizing the utility regulatory system to lower utility bills and grow the economy. It focuses on state public utilities commissions (PUCs), which play a critical role in determining utility costs, investments, and energy projects. These 200 commissioners oversee over $200 billion annually and significantly influence the energy system.

• Rising utility bills are a national economic and political issue. In 2025, utilities requested a record $31 billion in rate increases, affecting 80 million Americans struggling to pay their bills. The U.S. grid is experiencing rapid electricity demand growth due to AI data centers and manufacturing.
• PowerLines is recognized on the 2025 "TIME100 Next" list and has already shaped discussions in major publications like the New York Times, Washington Post, Wall Street Journal, Politico, Bloomberg, CBS News, NPR, Marketplace, Financial Times, TIME, Vox, The Daily Mail, and MIT Technology Review. It has established credibility as a nonpartisan expert on utility regulatory and energy affordability issues, partnering with organizations like the National Governors Association and Western Governors Association.
• The organization is currently in a period of significant growth and seeks a part-time Philanthropic Advisor to help shape its financial foundation. This role involves building relationships with foundations and high-net worth individuals to secure funding for PowerLines' programs, policy shaping, and consumer-focused initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify and research potential foundations for engagement, focusing on those outside the energy sector.
• Develop and maintain relationships with potential foundations, donors, and funders for PowerLines.
• Advise on the development of fundraising strategies, particularly for foundations and high-net worth individuals.
• Support the execution of development events for donors and foundations.
• Conduct research and assist in drafting letters of inquiry, concept notes, funder memos, and grant proposals.
• Maintain donor records and ensure database updates.
• Provide additional support to PowerLines' fundraising efforts as needed.

Requirements

• The ideal candidate should have 8+ years of fundraising experience with a proven track record of securing significant funding from foundations and high-net worth individuals.
• Strong relationships with foundations and high-net worth donors.
• Proven skills in donor stewardship and cultivation.
• Self-motivated and able to work independently.
• Effective in handling multiple projects simultaneously.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• A strong strategic thinker capable of connecting programmatic objectives with donor interests and motivations.
• High emotional intelligence, including the ability to understand and address donor needs.
• A passion for advancing PowerLines' mission of modernizing the utility regulatory system to lower utility bills and grow the economy through a consumer-centered approach.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in developing and executing fundraising strategies for nonprofits.
• Track record of securing significant funding from foundations and high-net worth individuals.
• Strong relationships with key decision-makers in the philanthropic community.
• Experience in managing donor relations and maintaining detailed donor records.

Compensation and Benefits

This role can be structured as either a monthly retainer or an hourly rate. Compensation may be based on skills, qualifications, experience, location, and other factors.

How to Apply

Please submit your CV/resume along with a note addressing your interest in the Philanthropic Advisor role at PowerLines, how you would engage in this role, your availability (hours per week or per month), and the requested rate. Priority consideration will be given to applications received by April 15, 2026, but applications will be accepted on a rolling basis.