What are the responsibilities and job description for the Western Interconnection Lead Specialist position at California Energy Commission?
Energy Wonk Alert! The CEC is seeking an ambassador to the Western Interconnection. Are you a subject matter expert in electric reliability, resources, transmission, and markets? Read on to learn more about a high-level opening!
California Energy Commission (CEC) is hiring a Western Interconnection Coordination Lead to be the ambassador for committees, forums, activities, and other work relating to the Western Interconnection. This opportunity is an Electric Generation System Program Specialist II (EGSPS II) state classification in the Reliability Analysis Branch within the Energy Assessments Division (EAD).
The EGSPS II will lead economic and policy analysis relating to electric reliability, electricity system markets, electric transmission, electric generation technologies and performance, and electricity system operations throughout the Western Interconnection.
Desirable Qualifications:
- Understanding of Western Interconnection (WI) electric/gas system operations and industry; working knowledge of reliability regulation.
- Experience in tracking and development of electricity markets.
- Deep knowledge of and experience in various forums, stakeholder groups in the WI (CREPC, WIRAB, WIEB, WECC, westTEC, WRAP, others.).
- Experience conceptualizing and leading technical projects; demonstrated ability to synthesize complex information to a lay audience.
- Ability to track and evaluate energy generation technologies, their associated characteristics and roles in western interconnection resource planning.
- Understanding of energy policies in California and throughout the WI, including environmental and cultural protection policies affecting system planning, operation and carbon reduction.
- Social and political acumen to engage in diverse stakeholder activities and brief executive level appointees and commissioners.
- Well-honed writing and editing skills.
** Telework option, but hired candidate must reside in California before starting.
Required Application Package Documents
- Resume
- Cover Letter – one page describing why you are the best candidate
- Application Template (STD 678 state application template)
Link to CalCareers with official application instructions:
https://calcareers.ca.gov/CalHrPublic/Jobs/JobPosting.aspx?JobControlId=515420
Filing Deadline: May 5th, 2026
For any questions about this position or the application process please email Careers@energy.ca.gov to connect with the CEC recruitment team.
Salary : $10,939 - $13,691