The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) Science, Technology and Policy  (STP) is seeking to develop the future leaders in energy efficiency and renewable energy policy. The EERE STP appointments provide an opportunity for highly talented scientists and engineers to participate in policy-related projects at DOE's Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy in Washington, DC.

ORISE is continuing normal program operations during the COVID-19 pandemic. This opportunity will be offered as long as Department of Energy Headquarters is able to complete the onboarding process and ensure a meaningful experience to participants. We encourage you to apply and submit your application as soon as possible.  Updates to this opportunity will be provided on this page as needed.

The Solar Energy Technologies Office (SETO)  drives research, manufacturing, and market solutions to make the abundant solar energy resources in the United States more affordable and accessible for Americans.

Applicants selected as a participant will join the SETO team responsible for carrying out activities critical to SETO’s technology mission. For more information about the SETO, visit https://www.energy.gov/eere/solar/solar-energy-technologies-office .  SETO applications are reviewed (and offers are made) two times per year with rolling application deadlines of January 15th and July 15th. Recommendations are due January 18th and July 18th, so make sure your recommendations have been received by then in order for your application to be considered. The application review process takes approximately 3-4 months.

Three levels of participation, Level 3, Level 2 and Level 1, provide opportunities to a range of experience levels from recent graduates to experienced scientists and engineers to participate in the program. All participants will be provided the opportunity to participate in policy-related projects and be mentored by senior EERE staff.

Participant Benefits

Selected candidates will receive a stipend as support for their living and other expenses during this appointment. Stipend rates are determined by DOE officials, and are based on the candidate’s academic and professional background. Candidates will also be eligible to receive a health insurance allowance and reimbursement for travel expenses. Appointments are for one year. Appointments may be extended in increments of up to one year, contingent upon project needs and funding availability.

Nature of the Appointment

Participants will not enter into an employee/employer relationship with ORISE, ORAU, the DOE, or any other office or agency. Instead, the participant will be affiliated with ORISE for the administration of the appointment through the ORISE appointment letter and Terms of Appointment.

 If you have questions, please send an email to DOE-RPP@orise.orau.gov. 

Applicants must have superior academic performance and publication record, strong analytical, research and communication (oral and written) skills and demonstrated capacity for creative thinking, a strong technical background and experience in an energy-technology-related field, and be interested in being part of a multi-disciplinary, fast-paced environment, focused on energy technology research and development. Experience and knowledge in technology commercialization is desirable, but not required.

Level 3: Doctorate or Master's degree for more than 3 years in an energy-relevant field of science, engineering or other highly quantitative field such as economics. If more than five years since receipt of graduate degree, applicant must have at least three years of post-degree experience in a technical or research position in a field related to energy innovation.

Level 2: Ph.D. or master's degree for no more than 3 years in an energy-relevant field of science, engineering or other highly quantitative field such as economics.

Level 1: Bachelor's degree for less than five years in an energy-relevant field of science, engineering or other highly quantitative field such as economics.