Research Associate & Community Liaison

The Public Utility Law Project of NY is a dynamic, progressive, not-for-profit law firm seeking to fill the position of Intake Associate & Community Advocate position to focus on utility consumer protection issues, particularly as they pertain to the interests of low-income and fixed-income residential utility customers (including seniors and people with disabilities) receiving electric, gas, water, or telecommunication (phone, internet, cable) services. The ideal candidate will possess superior analytical and writing skills and will be able to achieve team-related outcomes from a remote work environment.

This position is currently remote, but you may work from our Albany or NYC office space as you wish. We do require that the candidate reside in New York State. Travel to all regions in New York State is expected and may require an overnight stay. Travel is not expected to exceed 26 days per year. Travel expenses are reimbursed. More travel details will be provided at interview.

Duties will include:

• Joining as a member of the Intake and Direct Services Teams, working one on one with vulnerable individuals seeking assistance with their utility bills from their first contact with PULP
• Supporting attorneys and other staff through research projects and drafting documents, such as public comments on administrative proceedings, testimony, etc.
• Liaising with elected officials, State/Federal agencies, utility companies, and community-based organizations
• Presenting at virtual and in-person events, such as utility assistance clinics and public trainings
• Required Skills:
• Strong analytical, writing, and communications skills
• Ability to work independently and accurately document time/tasks performed
• Interest in and commitment to advocacy for the legal rights of low-income and other vulnerable populations
• Empathy and compassion
• The position is currently remote/hybrid, so attendant discipline and time management skills are required
• Flexibility and impeccable organizational skills: you will be working on a wide range of projects simultaneously
• Willingness to ask questions and take initiative
• Bachelor’s degree in a writing-intensive program

Strongly preferred:

It is a plus, but not required to have:

• Knowledge of utility regulation (energy, telecom, and water) or legal experience
• Bilingual interpretation/translation experience
• Experience working within or with the State and Federal Government and/or Agencies

The salary will be based on candidate credentials and experience and will fall within a annual range between $36K and $50K. Benefits include generous PTO, and health/vision/dental coverage for full-time employees.

IMPORTANT – WE ARE UNABLE TO CONSIDER APPLICANTS WITHOUT THE FOLLOWING:

• Your residency in New York State
• A cover letter
• Your resume
• Two writing samples; feel free to submit existing academic or professional work composed by you for work or school. Each sample provided should be 1-3 pages in length.

Applications submitted without cover letter, resume, and two writing samples will not be considered. Applicants residing outside of New York State will not be considered.

Send to: jobs@utilityproject.org

About the Public Utility Law Project (“PULP”): Founded in 1981, PULP is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that advocates for universal service, affordability, and customer protections for New York State utility consumers. PULP offers people ways to get help and speak out about utility issues that affect them and their communities. PULP has a proud history of protecting, empowering, and representing New York’s low-income utility consumers.

PULP is committed to creating a diverse work environment and are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $36,000.00 - $50,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Albany, NY 12210