Energy & Utilities Analyst III

at State of Vermont in Montpelier, Vermont, United States

Job Description

The Vermont Public Service Department is seeking an Energy & Utilities Analyst. As an arm of the executive branch, the Department is a major driver of energy policy in Vermont, and advocates on behalf of the public in electric, efficiency, thermal energy, and telecommunications utility matters to implement the Comprehensive Energy Plan and advance State energy policy. The Planning Division, where the analyst will work, conducts analysis, works with stakeholders, and tracks energy sector trends to develop and implement State energy policy.

The Analyst will:

• Evaluate plans and proposals related to utility rate changes, tariff filings, Integrated Resource Plans, and other regulatory filings before the Public Utility Commission;
• Develop and evaluate quantitative economic modeling and studies, forecasting, and cost-benefit analysis for energy policies and proposals; 
• Analyze rate structures and designs based on industry best practices and Vermont-specific factors;
• Assemble, analyze, and package utility and other energy-sector data;
• Conduct planning studies and reports on policy issues and implementation;
• Write and deliver reports and expert testimony to the Public Utility Commission and the Vermont General Assembly; and
• Maintain strong, collaborative working relationships with utilities, developers, other state and regional government and non-governmental entities involved in the energy sector.

The Analyst will work on a wide range of issues including rate design and rate cases, economic and environmental impact modeling and analysis, generation and distributed energy resource policy development and implementation, state, utility, regional, and municipal energy planning, and drafting and supporting proposed legislation. The ideal candidate will have significant economic analysis and financial modeling experience on matters relating to energy policy and utility costs. They will have excellent written and oral communication skills and possess a high level of analytic expertise necessary to carry out the duties of the position. Candidates must be highly competent with Microsoft Excel, as most utility filings rely on this format for transparency in filings at the Public Utility Commission. Experience with other data management and analytics tools is a plus.

 
The Public Service Department can request a hire-into-range salary offer for qualified candidates and supports the continued professional development of its employees. The Department is located in walkable downtown Montpelier and is accessible by public transit, with opportunities for telework and hybrid work arrangements within the Governor’s return to office guidelines.

This position is classified as a Utilities Economic Analyst III by the Department of Human Resources.

Normal office working conditions generally prevail, with some required travel to sites and meetings. Some public speaking, attendance at public meetings and testimony before committees and boards is required. Evening, weekend, or overtime work may be occasionally necessary. Incumbents should have some private means of transportation available.