Deputy Director for Zero-Emission Vehicle Strategy, Planning, and Market Development

California Energy Commission; California; Remote; USD 115,000 - 198,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Telework option

Job summary

California Energy Commission seeks a Deputy Director for the Fuels and Transportation Division to lead policy, investments, and zero-emission vehicle strategy for the state. You will work with the Division Director and executive leadership to shape statewide programs advancing California’s clean transportation priorities.

Telework option available, California-based position. You will guide strategic direction, regulatory initiatives, and grant funding strategies to turn ambitious transportation

Responsibilities

• Shape statewide strategy: Lead high-level policy development, strategic planning, regulatory initiatives, legislative analysis, and major division deliverables.
• Advance zero-emission transportation: Guide initiatives involving electric vehicle charging, vehicle-grid integration, emerging electric load, and electricity grid reliability and resilience.
• Influence critical investments: Help direct clean transportation funding strategies, grant solicitations, and the annual Clean Transportation Plan Investment Plan Update.
• Represent California’s priorities: Engage with Commissioners, the Legislature, the Governor’s Office, state agencies, industry leaders, and other key stakeholders.
• Drive organizational excellence: Oversee budgets, workplans, contracts, administrative functions, risk assessments, and personnel activities.
• Develop future leaders: Mentor senior staff and foster a workplace where employees can grow and deliver results.

Job description

Lead California’s Clean Transportation Future- Deputy Director | Fuels and Transportation Division

California Energy Commission | Executive Leadership Opportunity

California is at the forefront of transforming how we fuel, power, and move our state. Are you ready to help lead that transformation?

The California Energy Commission (CEC) is seeking an accomplished, strategic, and forward-thinking executive to serve as Deputy Director of the Fuels and Transportation Division (FTD). This is an opportunity to shape statewide policy, guide major investments, influence the future of zero-emission transportation, and help advance California’s clean energy and climate goals.

Working directly with the Division Director and fellow executive leadership, you will help set the strategic direction for programs and policies that accelerate zero-emission vehicle adoption, expand and strengthen electric vehicle charging infrastructure, support grid reliability and resilience, and drive innovative transportation solutions. From shaping the annual Clean Transportation Plan Investment Plan Update to guiding complex regulatory initiatives, legislative priorities, and grant funding strategies, your leadership will help turn California’s ambitious vision into meaningful, statewide impact.

*Telework option available, California-based position*

Job Code-535050

Working Title: Deputy Director for Zero-Emission Vehicle Strategy, Planning, and Market Development

State Job Classification: C. E. A. (A)

Salary Range: $10,349.00 - $17,769.00 per month, full benefits, PTO, and pension plan!

New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.

Final Filing Date to Apply: 10/24/2026: Job Posting | CalCareers

Make an Impact at the Highest Level

As Deputy Director, you will serve as a trusted executive advisor, strategic leader, and key representative of the Division. You will guide high-priority policy development, oversee complex initiatives, and collaborate across government, industry, and stakeholder communities to advance California’s transportation and energy future.

You will have the opportunity to:

• Shape statewide strategy: Lead high-level policy development, strategic planning, regulatory initiatives, legislative analysis, and major division deliverables.
• Advance zero-emission transportation: Guide initiatives involving electric vehicle charging, vehicle-grid integration, emerging electric load, and electricity grid reliability and resilience.
• Influence critical investments: Help direct clean transportation funding strategies, grant solicitations, and the annual Clean Transportation Plan Investment Plan Update.
• Represent California’s priorities: Engage with Commissioners, the Legislature, the Governor’s Office, state agencies, industry leaders, and other key stakeholders on complex and high-impact issues.
• Drive organizational excellence: Oversee budgets, workplans, contracts, administrative functions, risk assessments, and personnel activities to support the Division’s mission.
• Develop future leaders: Mentor senior staff, strengthen organizational performance, cultivate collaboration, and foster a workplace where employees can grow and deliver exceptional results.

Lead People. Shape Policy. Deliver Results.

This executive role calls for a leader who can navigate complex policy challenges, balance competing priorities, communicate with influence, and turn strategic objectives into actionable outcomes. You will work alongside experienced leaders and multidisciplinary teams, providing the direction, judgment, and oversight needed to deliver on the CEC’s responsibilities and advance California’s clean transportation priorities.

If you are a strategic thinker, an effective collaborator, and a results-driven leader ready to make a lasting difference, this is your opportunity to help guide one of California’s most consequential transportation and energy policy portfolios.

Bring your vision to California’s clean transportation future. Lead the strategy. Empower the team. Make an impact that moves the state forward.

For any questions about the position or application process please contact the California Energy Commission recruitment team at [e-mail]