Campaign for Affordable Power–Project Director
Dept: Policy Advocacy
About TURN:
The Utility Reform Network (TURN) fights for the rights of California consumers by demanding affordable, safe, and reliable utility services. For over 50 years, TURN has led statewide efforts to lower energy costs, hold utilities accountable, and ensure that clean, affordable power is available to everyone — especially underserved low-income, Black and Brown, and rural communities.
TURN believes in a society where clean power, phone, and broadband are treated as basic rights for all families.
Position Summary:
TURN is seeking an experienced Campaign for Affordable Power–Project Director to lead a statewide nonpartisan education and communications campaign that elevates affordable utility bills as a top issue for likely voters and candidates in the 2026 contests for governor, lieutenant governor, insurance commissioner, and senate and assembly races, where an incumbent is not running. The ideal candidate is a strategic campaign leader with a proven record of managing political or advocacy campaigns, building coalitions, passing ballot measures, and conducting grassroots fieldwork.
This role combines policy acumen, political strategy, and grassroots organizing to advance TURN’s advocacy at the state and local levels.
Key Responsibilities:
Target Identification: Identify all senate and assembly districts with open seats, where an incumbent is not running for reelection, and research all declared and likely candidates.
Candidate Education: Provide candidates with TURN materials on the affordability crisis, causes, and policy solutions, past and future.
Securing Commitments: Push Democratic and Republican candidates in 2026 contests to commit to voting for affordable clean energy policies when elected, utilizing policy surveys and pledge statements.
Generating Media Coverage: Promote local and regional newsprint, television, and radio coverage of candidate positions on affordable bills and utility accountability.
Mobilize Big Tent: Mobilize local pressure on candidates from the TURN network of customers representing large industrial, big ag, small business, municipal, and others to educate candidates about the impact of skyrocketing bills on non-residential sectors.
Manage Strategic Resources: Lead and mentor a campaign team, contractors, and volunteers to ensure effective coordination and accountability.
Supplement Fundraising: Collaborate with TURN’s development team to secure funding for campaign initiatives.
Required Skills/Abilities:
Experience: Minimum of 2–5 years in electoral campaigns, public policy advocacy, or grassroots organizing, including experience leading statewide or large-scale campaigns.
Policy Expertise: Proven success in advancing legislation, winning ballot measures, or regulatory policy.
Leadership: Strong strategic planning, team management, and coalition leadership skills.
Communications: Excellent written, verbal, and public speaking abilities; media experience preferred.
Equity Focus: Commitment to racial, economic, and environmental justice principles.
Education: Bachelor’s degree in political science, public policy, communications, or a related field; advanced degree preferred but not required.
Bilingual Spanish–English skills are highly valued, as they significantly support TURN’s ability to serve diverse communities and advance equitable advocacy.
Physical Requirements:
Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
Must be able to lift 15 pounds at times.
Vehicle ownership, possession of a valid driver’s license, and willingness to drive for work meetings throughout California.
This is a full-time exempt position that may require occasional after-business hours work to meet deadlines or to attend company work-related functions.
Why Join TURN
Lead one of California’s most important energy affordability campaigns
Work with a mission-driven, high-impact advocacy team
Competitive pay and excellent benefits
Hybrid/California remote flexibility with statewide travel
Work Hours:
Full-Time, 40+ hours. Monday – Friday.
This position is based out of TURN’s Oakland, CA headquarters. The majority of TURN’s team works on a hybrid schedule, but remote work may be negotiable for the right candidate.
Salary Range for Position – Energy Attorney
$95,000–$135,000 annually
Application Process:
TURN is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, religion, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.
To apply, submit to hr@turn.org or chouston@turn.org with the Subject line: Campaign for Affordable Power Director – [Your Name] the following:
Cover letter
Resume
Two campaign writing samples (e.g., strategy memo, press release, or policy brief)
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
Please contact hr@turn.org to request an accommodation for the application process if necessary.
