Distributed Resource Specialist

Flathead Electric Cooperative•Kalispell, MT

1d•$88,795 - $109,678•Onsite

About The Position

Oversees FEC’s Distributed Generation (DG) and Distributed Energy Resource (DER) programs, acting as the primary project manager and contact for members interested in energy programs such as interconnection and net metering. Core responsibilities include assisting members with technical requirements, coordinating internal teams for project approval, developing new DG/DER opportunities, administering program policies, and optimizing DER performance. The role also involves data analysis, budgeting, contract management, and software administration related to energy programs. Additional duties include promoting member engagement, supporting grant applications and reporting, representing FEC in public forums, maintaining community relationships, and providing backup support to other departments, all while ensuring excellent service to members and stakeholders.

Requirements

Associate’s degree in a related field required. Four years of industry experience can be substituted for degree requirement.
5 to 10 years of experience in member/customer account management and/or business development with a proven track record of delivering exceptional member service and building long-term relationships.
Demonstrated ability to be self-motivated and results-oriented, with a drive for exceeding member expectations and achieving goals.
Possess a robust technological skillset with demonstrated expertise in using software programs to oversee business operations.
Skilled in Microsoft Office 365 and proficient in utilizing CRM software and other pertinent tools for account administration and reporting.
Valid Montana Driver’s License and be insurable to drive FEC vehicles.
Able to travel occasionally out-of-area and/or overnight.
Able to work 40 hours per week with additional time as needed.
Assume responsibility without direct supervision, display initiative and exercise good judgment.
Be organized, accurate and exercise strong attention to detail.
Possess proven ability to maintain confidentiality.
Able to work in environment with high noise levels and be able to safely use hazardous materials.
Consistently meet deadlines, budgets and work on projects simultaneously.
Able to establish and maintain working relationships with a variety of individuals, some of whom have opposing points of view.
Experience with public speaking.
Read and understand technical information and communicate that information to various internal/external stakeholders to ensure comprehension.
Ability to focus and make appropriate decisions when dealing with emergencies, stress and deadlines.
Ability to absorb and apply constructive criticism from team members and peers.
Must have a strong commitment to the cooperative principles.
Ability to handle difficult situations.
Ability to function in a dynamic environment subject to impromptu changes in schedules, requirements, and priorities.
Must be able to work alone and follow safety rules.
Present a professional appearance at all times.

Nice To Haves

Industry experience preferred, including understanding of energy-related concepts, electrical and building codes, regulations and practices related to commercial and industrial energy consumers, energy efficiency, demand response, power distribution, and power quality.
Experience employing digital tools for utility energy program management preferred (DERMS, meter data analysis, and NISC experience/proficiency strongly favored).

Responsibilities

Serve as the project manager and primary point of contact for members interested in DG/DER interconnection, net metering, and related energy programs.
Assist members with proper sizing, connection requirements, and safe operation of distributed energy resources, including generators and distributed generation systems.
Coordinate with internal teams, including Engineering, to design, review, and approve DG/DER interconnection projects using utility best practices.
Evaluate and develop new DG/DER opportunities that improve system reliability, support member needs, and help manage overall costs.
Lead the development, application, and administration of DG/DER and interconnection policies, ensuring effective program and project execution.
Collaborate with internal stakeholders to optimize DER performance for system load balancing and operational efficiency.
Analyze DG/DER production and operational data to quantify system benefits and support rate design and strategic decisions.
Perform budgeting, estimating, forecasting, accounting, reporting, and work-order management activities related to DG/DER projects including the Landfill Gas to Energy (LFGTE) project.
Administer load management programs, including direct load control and behavioral load shaping, to reduce peak demand and support power supply goals.
Work with Communications and Key Member staff to promote DG/DER and load management programs and support member engagement.
Represent FEC in public settings and educate members and stakeholders on DG/DER programs and opportunities.
Manage and maintain software platforms that support energy programs, coordinating with IT, staff, and vendors to ensure optimal performance and updates.
Manage and maintain contracts and agreements associated with energy programs, including net metering and load shedding agreements.
Monitor and evaluate the performance of energy programs to ensure they meet established goals and objectives.
Support the development of technical documentation (including but not limited to designs, testing, calculations, reports, standards, etc.).
Identify DER-related grant opportunities for the Co-op and members that help meet FEC strategic goals and make recommendations on their feasibility.
Develop relationships and work with grant administrators and government contractors (state and federal) to design effective DER grant applications for FEC.
Manage DER grant application processes.
Research, write, format, and submit compelling high quality grant proposals to funding agencies (federal, state, and private foundations).
May also include providing data support, retention of consultants, and representing the Co-op in consortiums or industry groups partnering in grant opportunities.
Complete DER grant reporting requirements, report on progress, manage budgets, and communicate with stakeholders once grants are awarded.
Maintain positions on external Boards and participate in community groups as assigned that represent issues that are important to FEC and its members.
Provide backup support as needed for the Power Resources department, such as high bill complaints, member demand questions, etc.
Always assist members/vendors/employees and the general public in a courteous and professional manner ensuring their continued satisfaction with FEC.
Work in harmony and show respect to all fellow employees in order to promote an effective and pleasant working environment.
Meet all goals and initiatives set by supervisor, and maintain ongoing communication with supervisor regarding situations requiring immediate attention, problems/concerns, etc.
In pursuit of zero workplace incidents, promote and maintain a positive safety culture while adhering to all applicable policies outlined in the Safety Manual.
Report all incidents and potential safety hazards in a timely manner to supervisor or Safety Coordinator.
Become familiar with and follow FEC objectives, bylaws, and applicable policies.
Perform other duties as assigned by management applying the same skill and enthusiasm as with regularly assigned responsibilities.

Benefits

Flathead Electric provides competitive pay, exceptional benefits including a retirement plan, a matching 401K, and generous health/dental/vision/disability insurance.
Flathead Electric provides on the job training and offers an education reimbursement program for those employees wishing to better their education to pursue opportunities at our Co-op.

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