Public Affairs Research Associate Renewable Energy Projects

DescriptionThe Research Associate will play a central role in Bantams research operationsconducting in-depth community and permitting research, managing datasets, and producing high-quality analytical deliverables for internal and client use. Working closely with senior research staff and cross-functional teams, the Research Associate will conduct end-to-end community assessmentsfrom data collection through final analysisand translate findings into strategic insights that directly inform client decision-making and build the institutional knowledge that underpins Bantams strategy and communications work.Key ResponsibilitiesCommunity and Permitting ResearchIndependently design and execute comprehensive community assessments, analyzing demographic, economic, social, and cultural factors that influence local dynamics and permitting outcomes.Research and interpret local zoning laws, ordinances, and decision-making processes relevant to renewable energy projects.Identify and map key stakeholders and local influencers across project communities, exercising professional judgment in assessing their significance to project outcomes.Develop and synthesize findings into concise, actionable insights that directly inform strategic client strategy recommendations and significant business decisions.Data Collection and AnalysisGather, organize, and analyze data from a range of public and proprietary sources, including U.S. Census, ESRI, NPM, L2, and local government databases.Maintain data integrity and organization within Bantams internal research systems and the BantamOne platform.Determine and implement improvements to data quality, formatting standards, and research methodologies based on professional assessment of strategic needs.Quality Assurance and CollaborationEnsure accuracy and consistency of research deliverables, exercising independent judgment on quality standards and strategic value.Collaborate with internal teams to integrate research findings into client deliverables and digital platforms.Identify, contribute, and implement ideas for improving efficiency, automation, and scalability of the Research Departments operations.Professional Growth and ContributionStay current on permitting trends, local government dynamics, and energy development policy environments to inform strategic assessments.Contribute to Bantams institutional knowledge base and long-term research capacity.QualificationsRequiredBachelors degree in Political Science, Geography, Environmental Studies, Data Science, or a related field.13 years of experience in research, data analysis, public affairs, or policy-related work.Excellent analytical and critical-thinking skills, with strong attention to detail and ability to exercise independent judgment on matters of strategic significance.Proficiency in Excel / Google Sheets / Airtable and online data research.Strong writing and synthesis skills, with ability to develop strategic recommendations clearly and concisely.Self-motivated, organized, and comfortable managing multiple projects independently in a remote, fast-paced environment.PreferredExperience working with local government data, GIS mapping tools, or permitting processes.Familiarity with clean energy, political campaigns, or public affairs research.Interest in renewable energy, community engagement, and policy-driven change.Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. We do not sponsor work visas at this time.CompensationThis is a full-time, exempt positionThe base annual salary hiring range for this position is $55,000 to $65,000Compensation offered will be determined by factors such as (but not limited to) location, level, education, job-related knowledge, skills, and experienceBenefitsA Mission-Driven CultureFully Remote Work EnvironmentFlexible PTOMedical, Vision, and Dental InsuranceShort-, Long-term Disability, and Life InsurancePaid Parental Leave401(k) w / Employer MatchAnnual Staff Retreats to Fun PlacesHow to ApplyPlease submit a cover letter in addition to your resume. In your cover letter, we'd especially love to learn what differentiates you and why you are interested in working at Bantam Communications!About Bantam CommunicationsBantam Communications is a specialized public affairs firm accelerating the deployment of advanced energy infrastructure across the United States.We partner with developers, investors, coalitions, and mission-aligned philanthropic and nonprofit institutions to navigate complex permitting environments, mobilize community support, and shape the policy and narrative conditions necessary for deployment success.Our work is grounded in the belief that building advanced energy requires not only technological innovation and capital investment, but public trust, political alignment, and social license. We help bridge these gapsbringing structure, insight, and campaign discipline to every engagement.With expertise spanning stakeholder strategy, coalition-building, and local and statewide communications, Bantam supports the advancement of clean, low-carbon energy solutionsfrom variable renewables to long-duration storage and next-generation baseload technologies.We are a fully remote company with talented employees across the U.S.Bantam Communications is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a workplace where innovation thrives. All qualified applicants receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

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