Critical Minerals Policy Advisor

FT / PT Status – Full-Time Salary – $52.18 - $78.38 Hourly Wage Remote Work / In-Office – In-Office / On-Site Recruiter – Tim Conyers | tconyers@utah.gov | 0 Application Deadline – 5/24/2026

Key Responsibilities

Position: Critical Minerals Policy Advisor

Location: Salt Lake City

The Critical Minerals Policy Advisor has a deep understanding of the full critical minerals value chain, including exploration, extraction, processing, manufacturing, use, and recycling of critical minerals. The Critical Minerals Policy Advisor has experience with mining policy, and understands the challenges and opportunities facing critical mineral production in Utah and the United States. The Critical Minerals Policy Advisory will serve as the primary staffer for Utah’s Critical Minerals Council, created under S.B. 254 during the 2026 Utah Legislative Session. The Critical Minerals Policy Advisor will provide expertise and knowledge while assisting the members of the Critical Minerals Council. The Policy Advisor will conduct or lead research on behalf of the Critical Minerals Council, and reports to the Co-Chairs and other members of the Critical Minerals Council regarding their activities. The Critical Minerals Policy Advisor will make complex decisions to translate the Critical Minerals Council’s vision into program implementation. Ensures quality results and implements program alignment through internal and external collaboration. Coordinates meetings, agendas, and schedules to ensure productive communication between Critical Minerals Council members and compliance with Utah's Open and Public Meetings Act. Provides primary staff support for large-scale projects under the Critical Minerals Council's expansive portfolio.

Why Join Our Team

This is more than a career; it’s a chance to have a lasting impact. As part of the OED team, you’ll help shape the future of energy in the state and the region. Utah has long been a leader in the energy sector, and our work ensures that the state continues to be a leader, an innovator, and a national example of how to do energy right. You’ll join a small, well-coordinated team all focused on the same goals. We offer a competitive salary, an excellent benefits package, performance bonuses, and the chance to grow and advance your skills and career.

Qualifications

Job Responsibilities

• Council Leadership & Support: Serve as the primary staffer for the newly created Utah Critical Minerals Council (S.B. 254), providing expert guidance and technical knowledge to members.
• Strategic Implementation: Translate the Council’s high-level vision into actionable programs and make complex decisions regarding program implementation.
• Research & Analysis: Lead and conduct in-depth research on the critical minerals value chain to inform Council activities and policy recommendations.
• Administrative Oversight: Coordinate meetings, develop agendas, and manage schedules while ensuring strict compliance with Utah’s Open and Public Meetings Act.
• Project Management: Provide primary staff support and oversight for large-scale projects within the Council’s expansive portfolio.
• Internal & External Collaboration: Foster alignment between state agencies, executive branch offices, and external stakeholders to ensure quality results.
• Reporting: Regularly brief the Council Co-Chairs and members on activities, research findings, and project milestones.
  
  

Required QualificationsTechnical Expertise

• Value Chain Mastery: Comprehensive understanding of the full critical minerals lifecycle: exploration, extraction, processing, manufacturing, use, and recycling.
• Mining Policy: Proven experience navigating mining-sector regulations and general mining policy frameworks.
• Industry Insight: Deep knowledge of the challenges facing U.S. mineral development, including permitting hurdles, global competition, supply chain constraints, and safety requirements.
  
  

Government & Legislative Experience

• Utah Legislative Process: Practical experience with Utah’s specific legislative cycles and procedures.
• Public Sector Operations: Experience staffing government boards/commissions or working directly with elected officials and executive branch agencies.
• Regulatory Compliance: Familiarity with government transparency laws, including the Utah Open and Public Meetings Act and the Government Records Access and Management Act.
  
  

Professional Skills

• Decision-Making: Ability to handle complex, high-stakes decision-making processes.
• Communication: Skill in translating technical mineral data into policy language for diverse stakeholders.
• Organizational Leadership: Ability to manage multi-faceted portfolios and drive collaboration across different governmental levels.
  
  

About The Role

Location –

288 North 1460 West

Salt Lake City, Utah, 84116

United States

Background Check Required – You must successfully pass a criminal history check.

Drug Test Required –

Schedule Code – AX - Employees in supervisory positions

Why You Should Join Our Team

Benefits

In Utah, we believe hard work is important, but balance is essential. Finding work/life balance is a vital element to our culture. To find out more about WHY Utah , click here . Other benefits may include:

• Job Stability: Enjoy the security and reliability of employment within a well-established organization.
• Career Growth: Develop valuable skills and gain opportunities for leadership within a large organization.
• Meaningful Work: Contribute to an important service that benefits the community and supports organizational goals.
• Supportive Work Environment: Be part of a team that values cooperation, strong work ethics, and mutual support.
  
  

The Agency For more information: https://energy.utah.gov/

EEO Statement The State of Utah is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, or Veteran status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. For accommodations, please contact (801) 957-9390.