10/23/2001 09180

ENERGY PROGRAM SPECIALIST

DEFINITION: This is professional energy program development and analysis work in the Department of Environmental Protection.

An employee in this class performs assignments in the development of programs to promote efficient energy use. The position develops energy programs by performing research, evaluating data, managing demonstration projects, and writing reports relating to specialized areas of energy supply and demand for use in developing strategies to meet Pennsylvania's long-range needs. Work involves preparing studies, forecasts, and background reports concerning energy issues and resources, appropriate technologies, alternate fuels, cogeneration, utility regulation, renewable or sustainable resources, transportation, housing, finance, conservation, environmental impacts, load management, economic impacts, taxation, pricing, and similar areas of concern. Work also involves maintaining current data on trends and developments and summarizing data to inform other staff specialists of these developments. An integral part of the work is the use of statistical and economic analysis and quantification techniques to develop documentation of program and policy recommendations and proposals. Important aspects of the work include developing research methodologies, managing projects, recommending strategies for implementation of approved policy, and making presentations. Contacts are maintained with representatives of all sectors of public and private energy interests to exchange information and ascertain feasibility of proposals. Independence is exercised in carrying out assignments and work is reviewed in progress and upon completion through conferences and regular status reports.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: Performs research assignments in gathering and analyzing data and writing reports.

Prepares studies, forecasts, and background reports.

Writes proposals and requests for proposals to perform investigations into energy efficient and renewable technologies.

Provides technical analysis of program components and ranks strategies most effective in accomplishing program results.

Designs primary research questionnaires and organizes data into meaningful forms such as graphs, charts, and tables.

Presents data in graphic, oral, and narrative form.

Develops and uses advanced analytical and quantification techniques and drafts scenarios and economic models.

Provides representation as a public speaker in stimulating interest or providing factual information on energy issues.

Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with energy interests, industry groups, trade associations, and the public.

Maintains records and files of reports and studies in progress or pertinent to specialized areas of interest.

Performs related work as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of current developments in the energy field.

Knowledge of research methodology.

Knowledge of macroeconomic and micro-economic principles, practices, and techniques.

Knowledge of economic statistics and mathematical techniques.

Knowledge of energy production, delivery, and end-use technologies and systems.

Knowledge of the available data sources pertaining to energy planning.

Knowledge of the organization and jurisdictional responsibilities of Federal, state, and local government.

Ability to plan, organize, and carry out assignments effectively.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates; representatives of energy producers, distributors, users, and regulators; and other contacts required in the progress of research assignments.

Ability to organize and present the results of research or analysis effectively in oral, written, and graphic form.

Ability to exercise judgment and discretion in developing policies and procedures.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: One year of professional experience in energy resources, energy utilization and conservation, energy technologies, or the economic impacts of energy issues, and a bachelor's degree in Mathematics, Economics, Finance, Engineering, Physical Sciences, or Energy Policy;

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A master's degree in Mathematics, Economics, Finance, Engineering, Physical Sciences, or Energy Policy;

                                                                                                                                                                      or

Three years of professional experience in energy resources, energy utilization and conservation, energy technologies, or the economic impacts of energy issues and a bachelor's degree;

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An equivalent combination of experience and training.