Pros
* Focus on clean tech (solar, battery storage, electric vehicles, etc) and electric utilities -- doesn't advocate for one or the other; tries to straddle the educational middle * Many co-workers have a personal interest/belief in advancing the clean tech industry, which creates a shared purpose * Fun, friendly, relaxed but busy environment * Corporate culture to not work after hours and weekends (or at least not email your co-workers if you do on occasion) * Management solicits feedback from all staff regularly, discusses results and acts as appropriate * Generous benefits - 24 days of vacation/sick plus federal holidays plus the week before New Year's off * Opportunities for professional development and education if you make time to incorporate them into your workplan * Freedom to show leadership and voice your opinions within your work area (and perhaps beyond) * Make time to do fun things both in the DC office and after conferences where multiple staff travel * Well positioned financially -- growing organization * Well respected in the industry -- everyone knows SEPA and the work they do
Cons
* Given high level of interest in clean tech industry, hiring process is highly competitive on technical side (research, consulting, programs)... * Non-technical side is either standard experience or uses temp-to-hire, i.e. Finance, HR, IT, events, membership, marketing, etc * The clean tech space is evolving rapidly and the organization reflects that with changes moving from solar-only to multi-technologies and the rapid expansion of projects and staff. Exciting transitions for some, but not for everyone. * Numerous staff telecommute through case-by-case hires or transitions, but most current and future positions are in DC...takes time to get to know and develop working relationships with remote staff.