[Hiring] Senior Energy Policy Specialist – Electric Transmission and Distribution @State of Washington

Role Description

Senior Energy Policy Specialist – Electric Transmission and Distribution (EMS 2)

This position leads the analysis, development and implementation of state energy and climate policy in the policy subject area described below. The position is inherently energy interdisciplinary, covering a range of energy technologies, programs, policies, and strategies that contribute to a more resilient, sustainable and dynamic energy economy in Washington. This work will help Washington achieve state climate policy goals through program design, alignment, and implementation.

This position serves as a statewide convener with diverse stakeholders, including legislators and other elected officials, experts and leaders in state and local government agencies, advocacy organizations, businesses, and program managers within Commerce.

The policy subject area of this position is electric transmission and distribution infrastructure policy, planning, and development. The 2021 State Energy Strategy identifies expanded high voltage transmission access as a key opportunity to meet the state’s energy and climate objectives by using clean electric generating resources across the western United States. The 2021 State Energy Strategy also emphasizes that a smart, flexible and optimized grid is foundational to meeting the mandates of our state’s clean electricity law and electrifying the economy while assuring system reliability and resilience at both the distribution and transmission levels.

This position works with transmission system operators, electric utilities, state and federal regulators, and public interest organizations to increase the capacity and reliability of the bulk power transmission system and the distribution grid serving Washington customers. It will require participation in statewide, multi-state, and federal activities including regular coordination and collaboration with the Western Transmission Expansion Coalition (WestTEC) and the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA). In addition, the Washington legislature passed a law in 2026 (ESSB 6355) creating the Washington Electric Transmission Authority (WETA). This position will support and maintain oversight of WETA until an executive director is hired in mid-2027 and carry out other duties assigned to Commerce in the law. This position will continue to collaborate closely with WETA on an ongoing basis.

Qualifications

• Any combination of Six (6) total years of experience.
• Five years of experience in public policy, energy policy, or climate policy.
• Two years of experience working on electric transmission and distribution infrastructure.
• Two years of experience working with electric utilities, state or federal regulators.
• Education in economics, public/business administration, public policy, engineering, or a related field.

Requirements

• Strong written, verbal and presentation skills, including the ability to communicate energy and climate issues to non-technical audiences.
• Ability to work with a wide range of stakeholders.
• Sensitivity to public attitudes and concerns.
• High-level facilitative, collaborative and marketing skills.
• Knowledge of regulatory and economic environment in Washington.

Benefits

• Medical and dental insurance benefits.
• Retirement and deferred compensation plans.
• 11 paid holidays each year.
• 14-25 vacation days per year (depending on length of employment).
• 8 hours of sick leave per month (if full time employed).
• Bereavement leave.
• Employee assistance program.
• Other benefits.