Research Analsyt- Environmental Defense Fund- Austin, TX

Organization: Environmental Defense Fund

Job Title: Research Analyst for the Natural Gas Campaign

Location: Austin, TX

Hours and Compensation: full time, paid

Application Deadline: until filled

Posted on: April 16

Organization Overview

With world attention focused on both the environment and the economy, Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) is where policymakers and business leaders turn for win-win solutions. This leading green group, with programs from Boston to Beijing, has tripled in size over the past decade by focusing on strong science, uncommon partnerships and market-based approaches. You can be part of a vibrant workplace that welcomes diverse perspectives, talents and contributions, where innovation and a focus on results are a way of life.

Description

One of EDF’s Energy Program goals is to reduce the impact on human health and the environment caused by producing and delivering natural gas. With growing political pressure to produce more energy domestically and to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, natural gas is increasingly seen as the fossil fuel of choice for the United States. As a lower-carbon, domestically-produced fossil fuel it is also seen as having the potential to economically meet U.S. energy needs until renewable energy can be scaled up. However, factoring in methane leakage during the production and distribution of natural gas can significantly affect the net climate benefits of natural gas relative to other fuels. Yet there is no reliable data on the cumulative leakage rates in the natural gas system. It is critical to better characterize the rates of natural gas leakage as quickly as possible.

Responsibilities

• Perform literature reviews and research, analyze and synthesize information on a variety of topics to inform the design and conduct of EDF-sponsored field studies to quantify leakage across the natural gas supply chain.
• Keep abreast of and compile scientific and gray literature on methane and other air emissions from natural gas systems; synthesize and disseminate that information for EDF scientists, economists, attorneys and policy specialists.
• Actively develop reports/fact sheets/blog posts for general audiences on topics of focus.
• Analyze public datasets on emissions from natural gas facilities, such as the annual EPA greenhouse gas inventory and company-reported emissions under EPA’s greenhouse gas reporting rule.
• Maintain and update EDF’s models and GIS-based databases used to evaluate the climate influence of natural gas leakage and fuel switching scenarios.
• Support other project development efforts on an as-needed basis.
• Apply excellent organizational, communication, and planning skills in preparing correspondence and reports, responding to requests for information, and helping to coordinate activities among staff members.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in natural sciences, engineering, or environmental science preferred; candidates with a Bachelor’s degree and suitable work experience will be considered;
• At least 2 years work experience in environmental science, energy policy, policy analysis, environmental advocacy or related fields; knowledge about environmental issues associated with the oil and gas industry is a plus;
• Strong quantitative analysis skills; proficiency in statistical analysis and air dispersion modeling a plus; experience in performing rigorous analysis in support of highly visible work;
• Ability to work independently and to support a multi-disciplinary team, using independent judgment required to plan, prioritize, and organize diversified workload.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills;
• Experience with database and GIS software and strong computer proficiency, including experience with Excel, Word, and Internet research;
• Two sample work products will be requested from candidates before invitation for an interview.

How to Apply:

apply online, here!

Applications will be reviewed until a suitable candidate is found.

Due to the volume of employment applications and queries received, EDF is unable to respond to each application individually. Applicants will be contacted directly if selected as a candidate.

Environmental Defense Fund is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, minorities, veterans and the physically challenged are encouraged to apply.