Public Policy Specialist, Data Centers & Energy

About the role

Riot Platforms is seeking a high-impact Public Policy Specialist to help lead our policy strategy at the intersection of AI, large-scale data centers, energy markets, and regulation. This role will shape Riot’s position on emerging policy and regulatory frameworks, advance constructive engagement with federal, state, and local stakeholders, and help drive the responsible growth of AI and HPC infrastructure. You will be responsible for translating complex technical and operational concepts - such as model training, grid interconnection, and demand response - into compelling policy narratives that influence outcomes and support our business execution.

Essential Functions

• Help lead the development and execution of Riot’s public policy agenda across AI, data centers, energy, and digital asset infrastructure.
• Monitor, analyze, and forecast federal, state, local, and international policy developments impacting AI compute, data center siting, energy procurement, and environmental compliance.
• Engage directly with policymakers, regulators, utilities, ISOs/RTOs, and trade associations; represent Riot in hearings, working groups, and industry coalitions.
• Draft public comments, testimony, issue briefs, and thought leadership on topics including AI governance, energy market participation, grid reliability, and water stewardship.
• Partner with Data Center, Operations, Power, and Legal teams to align business execution with evolving policy requirements, such as interconnection queues and incentive programs.
• Help build and maintain a dynamic policy risk/opportunity framework and briefing cadence for executive leadership and the Board.
• Support responsible growth initiatives, including community engagement and workforce development programs tied to AI/HPC deployments.
• Develop and track KPIs for policy impact and interface with external advisors and trade associations.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Deep understanding of AI and compute infrastructure, including model training/inference workflows, data center performance, and cooling technologies (PUE/WUE metrics).
• Strong grasp of power systems fundamentals, interconnection processes, demand response, and ISO/RTO market structures.
• Familiarity with ERCOT or FERC regulations and NERC standards; ability to interpret tariffs, rate cases, rulemakings, and environmental permits.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills with the ability to convert technical detail into clear, action-oriented policy positions.
• Strong ability to use data to support evidence-based advocacy and interpret complex reliability standards.
• High ownership mindset, bias for action, and comfort operating in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment.
• Familiarity with federal/state incentive programs (e.g., energy efficiency, demand flexibility) and experience with environmental permitting or large energy users/hyperscalers.

Education and Experience 

• 3-5+ years of experience in public policy, regulatory affairs, or government relations within AI, hyperscale data centers, grid regulations, or energy markets.
• Demonstrated success shaping complex, multi-stakeholder policy outcomes and managing direct engagement with agencies and legislative bodies.
• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Public Policy, Energy Systems, or a related field.
• Advanced degree (Masters, Ph.D., or J.D.) is highly preferred.

Compensation and Benefits 

• Base salary range $100,000 - 115,000 commensurate with experience.
• 401k plan with company matching.
• Great medical, vision, and dental plans to choose from.
• Long-term and Short-term disability.
• Additional benefit options (Employee Assistance Program, Pet Insurance, and more).
• Flexible Spending Accounts.
• A fun company culture with tremendous growth opportunities!

Riot is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.