Geothermal Development Specialist

This role supports the continued development and expansion of the City's direct-use geothermal utility by advancing geothermal integration with new development and implementing strategies that strengthen long‑term system growth. This position leads efforts to evaluate financial and operational feasibility, develop tools and guidance for developers and building owners, coordinate stakeholder engagement, support infrastructure and policy planning, and create communications, educational resources, and public‑facing tools that help developers understand and integrate geothermal heating systems into building projects.

This position promotes equitable, cost‑effective, and sustainable geothermal adoption across Boise and works under limited supervision.

This position is supported by grant funding for a two‑year term.

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, energy systems, construction management, urban planning, public administration, business, or closely related field, and four years of experience in project coordination, infrastructure planning, utilities, energy systems, or related program management work, or an equivalent combination of education and/or experience.

• Valid state‑issued driver's license.

Applicants must be able to pass:

• City of Boise background check processes which includes a criminal history check and reference checks in accordance with the City of Boise Hiring Process Regulation.
• Driving Record Check.

The benefits are real and among the best in the Treasure Valley:

• Zero‑cost premium medical coverage for you and your family (an estimated $10,000 – 20,000 value).
• PERSI retirement (11.96% Employer Contribution) plus employer‑matched 401(k)/457b.
• 10 hours vacation/month (grows with tenure), 12 paid holidays, and 8 hours sick leave/month.
• 10 weeks paid parental leave.
• $500 annual wellbeing incentive.
• Tuition reimbursement and free local bus pass.
• Basic life and long‑term disability insurance at no cost.

Handles complex issues and problems and refers only the most complex issues to higher‑level staff. Is capable of handling moderately complex issues and problems, and provides leadership, coaching, and/or mentoring to a subordinate group, as needed.

Leads efforts to expand the geothermal utility, including developing and implementing strategies to attract new and existing customers and integrate geothermal into new development.

Engages stakeholders to identify barriers to geothermal adoption and leads development of policies, strategies, and solutions to improve accessibility and scalability. Develops and delivers materials, presentations, and engagement activities to educate stakeholders and the public. Translates technical concepts into accessible information and aligns messaging with community engagement efforts.

Recommends prioritization and sequencing for system expansion, evaluates opportunities for new and existing buildings, and refines the geothermal roadmap using technical, market, and community inputs.

Coordinates cross‑functional inputs to support rate structures, billing approaches, cost assumptions, and long‑term financial sustainability. Prepares materials outlining financial and operational tradeoffs.

Maintains program documentation, tracks progress and risks, conducts basic data analysis, and prepares briefings and reports on system performance, growth, and initiatives for leadership.

Performs other duties as assigned. Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this position at any time.

Knowledge of geothermal or district energy systems, including an understanding of direct‑use geothermal operations, building integration considerations, and scalability constraints; supporting complex, multi‑stakeholder initiatives involving technical and non‑technical partners; utility systems, district energy concepts, financial and operational considerations that influence long‑term scalability; and local, state and federal regulations affecting energy.

Ability to…