Tribal Energy Policy Analyst

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct independent policy research and analysis on energy policy issues affecting Tribal Nations.
• Monitor congressional committee activity, executive branch initiatives, and federal agency guidance or rulemaking processes relevant to energy development in Indian Country.
• Examine how federal statutes, regulatory frameworks, permitting processes, and federal funding programs may affect tribal energy initiatives and development opportunities.
• Analyze how Tribal Nations approach energy development and related policy decisions, including how tribal priorities, governance structures, and financial resources may shape energy initiatives.
• Maintain awareness of how federal energy policies interact with tribal jurisdiction, land status, and federal trust responsibilities affecting energy development.

Research Publications & Briefings

• Produce research publications that translate complex statutory, regulatory, and technical developments into accessible and practical formats for tribal audiences.
• Respond to questions from tribal leaders and decision-makers regarding research publications and federal policy developments addressed in the Center’s work.

Collaboration & Communication

• Collaborate internally within the Native Nations Center to advance the Center’s research initiatives and support the development of new research projects.
• Aid in dissemination of research findings through written publications, podcasts, and presentations communicating policy developments affecting Tribal Nations.
• Represent the Center in meetings, partnerships, and collaborative discussions related to tribal energy policy and federal policy developments affecting Tribal Nations.

Research Growth & Funding Development

• Aid in identifying funding opportunities that support energy policy research benefiting Tribal Nations.
• Contribute to grant proposals and research initiatives that expand the Center's research portfolio and partnerships.

Skills

• Proven technical writing and editing skills with the ability to produce clear, accessible policy analysis for tribal audiences.
• Interest in, and the ability to develop familiarity with, federal energy policy frameworks, infrastructure development, or regulatory processes affecting Tribal Nations.
• Strong research and analytical skills, including the ability to synthesize complex statutory, regulatory, and technical information.
• Knowledge of federal legislative, executive, and regulatory processes.
• Understanding of federal Indian law, treaty rights, tribal sovereignty, and the federal trust responsibility.
• Awareness of the importance of building and maintaining respectful relationships with Tribal Nations, including familiarity with tribal governance structures and consultation practices.
• Strong organizational abilities and excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to collaborate across tribal, federal, academic, and policy communities.

Required Education and Experience

• Master's degree in a related field.
• 12 months of related research experience.

Department Preferences

• Master's degree in Public Policy, Energy Policy, Political Science, Public Administration, Environmental Policy, Law, or related field.
• Minimum of 12 months of experience in tribal policy, energy policy, federal Indian law and policy, or federal legislative and regulatory analysis related to energy, infrastructure, or natural resources.
• Experience working with Tribal Nations or tribal organizations.
• Experience conducting policy research related to federal energy policy or tribal energy development.
• 3+ years of policy analysis experience.
• Published written work as lead or co-author.
• Advanced degree such as Juris Doctor or PhD in a relevant field.