Federal Government Economist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

When you join the team at Mesabi Metallics, you become part of a pioneering group advancing sustainable mining practices and driving innovation in the iron ore industry. Our commitment extends to providing a safe work environment, supporting environmental stewardship and generating value for all stakeholders. You will be joining us at a pivotal moment in Minnesota’s mining history: Mesabi Metallics’ cutting‑edge iron ore mining and pelletization project is currently under construction. Mesabi Metallics is also building a 1.8 MTPA Direct Reduction Iron (DRI) plant to strengthen the U.S. low‑carbon metallics supply chain. The DRI project is envisioned as a next‑generation metallics and steel manufacturing hub aligned with the rapidly expanding U.S. electric arc furnace (EAF) steel sector.

More importantly, you'll be immersed in a positive, supportive work environment that values your contributions and fosters your professional growth. Our culture is shaped by our core values which are sustainability, integrity, inclusivity, innovation, teamwork, determination and performance, and our employees are empowered to make a difference every day.

At Mesabi Metallics, you are part of a legacy of excellence, playing a key role in shaping the future of global infrastructure and industry.

The incumbent will lead state and federal government engagement for an integrated steel manufacturing facility with Direct Reduced Iron (DRI). This role is responsible for managing complex regulatory approval, environmental and operational permitting, and serving as the primary liaison with government agencies, particularly at the federal level.

A key focus of this position is identifying, securing, and administering government grants, incentives, and funding programs that support DRI‑based steelmaking and large‑scale capital expansion projects. The role will work closely with Central Project Management, Operations, Finance, and Sustainability teams to ensure full regulatory, environmental, and financial compliance across all project phases.

• Develop and implement comprehensive government relations and advocacy strategies at state and federal levels to support integrated steel plant and DRI.
• Serve as the principal interface with Kentucky Economic Development, state environmental agencies, federal departments, and regulatory authorities.
• Lead permitting and regulatory approval processes related to integrated steelmaking facilities, including environmental, air quality, water usage, land use, zoning, and industrial compliance requirements.
• Monitor, analyze, and assess legislative, regulatory, and policy developments impacting steel manufacturing, DRI technology, energy use, emissions, and infrastructure projects.
• Identify, evaluate, and secure government grants, incentives, tax credits, and public funding programs relevant to DRI plants, decarbonization initiatives, and capital‑intensive steel projects.
• Coordinate grant applications, approvals, compliance reporting, and audits in collaboration with Finance, Legal, Sustainability, and Project Management teams.
• Support the Central Project Management team in evaluating and finalizing all regulatory, permitting, and incentive‑related aspects of DRI and downstream steel production projects across multiple locations.
• Build and sustain strong relationships with elected officials, regulators, economic development agencies, utilities, and local community stakeholders.
• Represent the organization in public consultations, regulatory hearings, environmental reviews, and government forums related to steel and DRI projects.
• Ensure continuous compliance with federal, state, and local environmental, industrial, and operational regulations applicable to integrated steel plants.
• Provide strategic advice to senior leadership on government affairs risks, opportunities, timelines, and policy impacts related to DRI‑based steelmaking and expansion initiatives.

• Candidates with 12 to 15 years of progressive experience in government relations, public affairs, regulatory affairs, or economic development preferable within steel, mining, heavy industry, energy or large infrastructure projects.
• Proven expertise in permitting and regulatory approvals for industrial manufacturing or integrated steel facilities.
• Strong understanding of environmental permitting and compliance processes.
• Proven expertise in government grants, economic development incentives, and public funding programs at state and federal levels.
• Familiarity with incentive structures related to industrial development, decarbonization, clean energy, and DRI‑based steel making.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Strong analytical and decision‑making ability.

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Policy, Political Science, Law, Business Administration, or equivalent field.

• None

• $130,000 - $150,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications.

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage with an HSA option.
• Retirement Plan: 401(k) with 6% company match.
• Lincoln STD, LTD, & Life Insurance: Coverage provided by Mesabi Metallics.
• Paid Time Off (PTO): 0-5 Years: 120 hours per year. 5-10 Years: 160 hours per year. 10+ Years: 200 hours per year. Plus 9 paid holidays.

Mesabi Metallics Company LLC is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in the workplace. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where all employees feel valued, respected, and empowered to contribute to our success.