Western States Energy Analyst

Western States Energy Analyst
Union of Concerned Scientists
Oakland, California


The Position
The Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) is an independent national nonprofit whose scientists and engineers work to solve some of our planet’s most pressing environmental and safety problems. UCS combines technical analysis and effective organizing and advocacy to create innovative, practical solutions for stemming the tide of global warming, sustainable food policy and agriculture, energy and transportation, fighting misinformation and reducing the threat of catastrophic nuclear war.

As Western States Energy Analyst, you will develop and analyze scenarios for California’s electricity grid to identify potential impacts of energy investments and to provide data and analysis for future energy decisions. This work includes:

• writing and editing technical reports, fact sheets, and other materials communicating research results;
• preparing regulatory and legislative comments and testimony;
• participating in the development, outreach and advocacy of UCS clean energy and climate change policy positions;
• meeting with policymakers, regulators, and stakeholders;
• representing UCS and its philosophy and positions at various public forums.

Responsibilities
Design and develop quantitative analyses that address current, critical regulatory and policy issues related to increasing the penetration of renewable energy onto western electricity grids. Working with colleagues and/consultants, gather data, identify appropriate modeling tools and other research methods, design scenarios, analyze outputs, and assist UCS staff in writing reports, papers, and fact sheets highlighting the results of various analyses. Solicit review and feedback from editors, internal and external colleagues, and supervisor; present information and address questions and criticism. Edit manuscripts and reports as needed. Maintain accuracy, credibility, readability and timeliness of all written material. Tailor style and content of materials for different audiences, as appropriate. Disseminate materials to policymakers, the media, and the public.

Maintain current knowledge of analytical tools and energy technologies, policies and markets, and of evolving environmental and climate change policies. Monitor and assess current and ongoing research and trends in advanced clean energy technology and market issues, climate change policies, and related fields. Use this expertise in research and advocacy activities.

Maintain regular contact with modelers and energy analysts from other organizations and government agencies to keep up to date on the latest analyses, research and model developments

When appropriate, provide technical and strategic assistance to policymakers, opinion leaders and coalition partners. Respond to inquiries and comments from stakeholders, media, members, sponsors, and general public about energy related issues; promote UCS position and objectives.

Provide technical advice and guidance and work with development, organizing, or communications staff to coordinate energy related messages.

Represent UCS at workshops, hearings, conferences, and other various public forums.



Qualifications and experience
This position requires at least 3-5 years of experience researching and analyzing energy issues related to markets, regulation, reliability and policy implementation. Familiarity with and experience using electricity models such as PLEXOS or other production-cost models, or electricity capacity expansion and optimization models is highly desirable.

Knowledge of electricity market design and operations is also highly desired. A Master’s degree or higher that has a quantitative component is required. A demonstrated ability to translate quantitative analysis to a policy audience and manage and deliver work within a budget and timeline is required. Computer programming experience, with knowledge of how to run production-cost or investment optimization models can be extremely helpful.

At UCS, comparable training and/or experience can be substituted for degrees when appropriate.

UCS is an equal opportunity employer continually seeking to diversify its staff. In particular, we’re dedicated to broadening opportunities for individuals from demographic groups that are historically underrepresented in the sciences and in environmental advocacy. We’re also committed to building an inclusive workplace culture where talented people of widely diverse backgrounds can thrive. We've adopted this commitment because we believe the inclusion of culturally diverse perspectives will improve our work and produce better societal and environmental outcomes for all, including historically disenfranchised communities. We are actively seeking people who bring diverse backgrounds and perspectives to join us in this work.

This is a full-time position based in UCS’s Oakland, CA office. UCS offers excellent benefits and a rewarding work environment. Information about the organization is available at http://www.ucsusa.org

To Apply: Please email a cover letter, resume, salary requirements, how you learned about the position to jobsucsusa.org with “Energy Analyst” in the subject line. Word or PDF format only. No phone calls please. Deadline: January 7, 2018 or until filled.