Energy & Sustainability Researcher for Energy Efficiency Programs - Arlington, VA (2026 Grad)

Energy & Sustainability Researcher for Energy Efficiency Programs ICF Office Location: Arlington, Virginia (Crystal City/Hybrid) Target Start Date: Summer 2026 Please read before applying: This is an early talent position for new grads. Due to the high volume of applications, we kindly ask that candidates who are not currently based in the DMV area include their anticipated relocation date in their cover letter or resume in order to be considered. Relocation will not be supported. At this time, ICF is unable to provide employment visa sponsorship for this position. Candidates must have permanent work authorization in the U.S. This role is a full-time non-exempt role with a target salary of $63,500 ($30.53/hour). ICF is seeking a detail-oriented, organized, and self-motivated candidate to help clients implement their energy-efficiency decarbonization, and sustainability programs. Successful candidate of this entry-level position will support important program administration and assurance initiatives to facilitate stakeholder engagement, build brand integrity, and assure efficient implementation of an important federal public private partnership to help drive energy efficiency, decarbonization, and building electrification policies. Key Responsibilities: • Respond to client and industry stakeholder questions and requests and manage designated program email accounts • Manage, analyze, and report on high volumes of program data contained in databases, websites, and other lists and contribute suggestions for data gathering mechanisms • Develop and review high-quality written products, such as reports that analyze industry trends, summarize stakeholder compliance with program requirements, and identify opportunities for energy savings • Communicate with internal and external subject matter experts and stakeholders via written materials and meetings to promote knowledge sharing, consistency of approach, and cross-collaboration • Develop and implement compliance and brand integrity strategies, initiatives, and tools in a rapidly changing environment • Create and edit partner outreach materials such as reporting forms, applications, and targeted stakeholder correspondence • Facilitate the dissemination of clear, compelling messaging to communicate with a wide variety of audiences about program initiatives, data trends, or implementations progress • Identify and implement creative opportunities to streamline administrative processes • Establish and contribute to task schedules to ensure contract deliverable requirements are met on time and within budget Organize and host meetings with targeted stakeholders to facilitate program engagement • Collaborate with government clients to facilitate successful and efficient program implementation Minimum Qualifications: • Bachelor’s degree in a relevant area of study such as Environmental Policy, Public Policy, Politics, Marketing, Communications or Business Administration • Internship(s) in energy efficiency, environmental programs, sustainability, communications, or marketing is strong preferred Preferred Skills/Experience: • Methodical/logical thinker with a good ability on grasping bigger picture • Experience with stakeholder outreach and management • Experience working with internal or external clients Additional Skills: • Verbal and written communication skills that will enable effective interactions with clients, market actors, and program stakeholders • Demonstrated track record of successful task management • Demonstrated experience analyzing data • High level of proficiency in MS Office Applications (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook) • Openness to learning new systems, including but not limited to database systems and mass mailing distribution systems Professional Skills: • Extreme attention to detail and superior quality control • Demonstrated customer service orientation and outstanding level of professionalism • Excellent problem solving-skills and decision-making capabilities; adept at analyzing situations, identifying existing or potential problems, anticipating potential outcomes, and recommending solutions • Excellent verbal and interpersonal skills • Exceptional research and writing skills, including editing and proofreading • Team player with the ability to work in a fast-paced environment with shifting priorities • Sound business ethics, including the protection of proprietary and confidential information • Ability to work with all levels of internal staff, as well as outside clients and vendors • Ability to apply detailed knowledge of organizational procedures to make independent decisions and serve as a credible resource for a senior management team Working at ICF ICF is a global advisory and technology services provider, but we’re not your typical consultants. We combine unmatched expertise with cutting-edge technology to help clients solve their most complex challenges, navigate change, and shape the future. We can only solve the world's toughest challenges by building a workplace that allows everyone to thrive. We are an equal opportunity employer. Together, our employees are empowered to share their expertise and collaborate with others to achieve personal and professional goals. For more information, please read our EEO policy. We will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. Reasonable Accommodations are available, including, but not limited to, for disabled veterans, individuals with disabilities, and individuals with sincerely held religious beliefs, in all phases of the application and employment process. To request an accommodation, please email View email address on click.appcast.io and we will be happy to assist. All information you provide will be kept confidential and will be used only to the extent required to provide needed reasonable accommodations. Read more about workplace discrimination rights or our benefit offerings which are included in the Transparency in (Benefits) Coverage Act. Candidate AI Usage Policy At ICF, we are committed to ensuring a fair interview process for all candidates based on their own skills and knowledge. As part of this commitment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools to generate or assist with responses during interviews (whether in-person or virtual) is not permitted. This policy is in place to maintain the integrity and authenticity of the interview process. However, we understand that some candidates may require accommodation that involves the use of AI. If such an accommodation is needed, candidates are instructed to contact us in advance at View email address on click.appcast.io. We are dedicated to providing the necessary support to ensure that all candidates have an equal opportunity to succeed. Pay Range - There are multiple factors that are considered in determining final pay for a position, including, but not limited to, relevant work experience, skills, certifications and competencies that align to the specified role, geographic location, education and certifications as well as contract provisions regarding labor categories that are specific to the position. The pay range for this position based on full-time employment is: $55,424.00 - $94,221.00 Arlington, VA (VA31) Need help? We're here: View email address on click.appcast.io About ICF ICF is a global consulting and technology services company with approximately 9,000 employees, but we are not your typical consultants. At ICF, business analysts and policy specialists work together with digital strategists, data scientists and creatives. We combine unmatched industry expertise with cutting-edge engagement capabilities to help organizations solve their most complex challenges. Since 1969, public and private sector clients have worked with ICF to navigate change and shape the future. Learn more at icf.com.