Energy Specialist

The City of Idaho Falls is currently accepting applications for the position of Energy Specialist. This full-time position performs a variety of technical duties related to planning, organizing and developing the Electric Division commercial customer support programs. Provides day-to-day assistance and analysis to customers as needed to resolve billing issues and educates the public in methods, practices and procedures to efficiently use electricity.

Works under the direction of the Energy Products and Services Manager. May provide supervision to subcontractors working on Energy Services programs.

Essential Functions:
Organizes and delivers residential and commercial energy efficiency programs; works with residential, commercial, and industrial customers to identify energy service needs, and conducts or arranges building analysis to ultimately provide customer with optimum delivery and utilization of electric energy. Analysis may include building shell, HVAC, HVAC controls, hot water, lighting, rates, and energy consumption data. On-site inspection and commissioning of installed measures may be conducted when necessary.

Works with customers, contractors, and others to answer energy related questions and complaints, demonstrate energy efficient products, and to explain Energy Services programs.

Directs data collection including coordinating installation of diagnostic equipment in the field, which may occur in the vicinity of live voltage, to measure and collect data to diagnose electric usage problems, power consumption, estimate heat loss and identify energy efficiency measures for installation. Perform related measurement and mathematical calculations to analyze and interpret test results and diagnose problems identified; make recommendations based on findings to mitigate power use, reduce costs and resolve problems identified.

Assists customers in process of following program procedures for installing recommended energy efficiency measures for energy services programs; including review of energy analysis, contractor bids, notice to proceed, program agreements, check lists, obtaining energy efficiency rebates, and other related information.

Maintains appropriate files and documentation for Energy Services programs or applicable Bonneville Power Administration program requirements.

Works with other City Departments, other government agencies, community organizations, and other utilities in energy efficiency and consumer related activities.

Assists in reviewing power theft and power quality program activities with inter- and intra-City department personnel. Maintain appropriate files and documentation.

Conducts safety demonstration program and power plant tours for interested groups and individuals.

Keeps current on energy efficiency and utility service developments through participation in periodic training, seminars, meetings, publications, etc.

Performs related duties as required.

Minimum Qualifications:
1. Education and Experience:
A. Graduation from High School and five (5) years progressive experience in construction, electrical, or HVAC industry; OR B. Associate degree in related field, or completion of applicable apprentice program, AND two years experience in construction, electrical or HVAC industry OR two (2) years experience with utility conservation or energy service programs; OR C. An equivalent combination of education and experience. Prefer direct experience in construction, electrical, or HVAC industry.

2. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Working knowledge of live power operations and related safety guidelines, including rubber glove protection; energy analysis and modeling; commercial and residential construction industry; basic algebra, geometry, heat loss calculations and energy consumption patterns; spreadsheet and database computer software applications related to energy service programs; blueprint reading and use of technical manuals; BPA specifications and other applicable codes relative to analysis and inspections involved in the Energy Services programs.

Skill in the art of diplomacy and creative problem solving. Skill in the use and application of infrared camera, data loggers and other diagnostic equipment, etc.

Ability to perform measurement and mathematical calculations to collect data for energy analysis to estimate heat loss, energy use and potential savings, and to identify necessary energy efficiency measures for installation; perform field work for data collection and inspections to check compliance of installations to program specifications; communicate effectively, verbally and in writing at a level necessary for efficient job performance; develop and maintain effective working relationships with fellow employees, the general public, contractors and supervisors.

3. Special Qualifications:
Have completed or ability to complete a utility industry approved energy auditor and/or inspector certification program.

Must possess a valid Idaho State driver’s license or be able to obtain one within six (6) months of employment.

Final candidate may be subject to a thorough background check.

Work Environment:
Incumbent of the position performs in a typical office setting with appropriate climate controls with periodic field work subjected to variable weather. Tasks require ladder moving and climbing and a variety of physical activities, involving minimal muscular strain, related to walking, standing, stooping, sitting, climbing, lifting carrying and reaching. Essential functions require talking, hearing and seeing. Common eye, hand, finger dexterity are required. Mental application utilizes memory for details, emotional stability, discriminating thinking and creative problem solving. Periodic exposure to hazards associated with live power environments. Periodic travel required in normal course of job performance.