Public Utilities Specialist

Lead Public Utilities Specialist (Technical Systems Authority)

At the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA), we deliver clean, reliable, and sustainable power to millions of people across the Pacific Northwest. Our mission is critical, and our systems must be flawless.

As a Lead Public Utilities Specialist (Technical Systems Authority) on our Trading Floor, you will be the ultimate bridge between cutting-edge technology and high-stakes energy trading. You will lead the development, security, and optimization of the vital software applications that drive our energy markets, manage financial transactions, and minimize risk. This is your opportunity to leverage your technical expertise on a grand scale, driving innovation for one of the nation's most critical power grids.

1. Serve as the Senior Technical Authority for Core Systems

Act as the primary technical expert and trusted advisor for our energy trading, transaction-tracking, and financial settlement software. You will have full technical independence to define system goals, solve complex challenges, and ensure our trading operations run seamlessly.

2. Drive the Evolution of Critical Energy Software

Lead all phases of the software lifecycle-from initial design and enhancement to testing, quality assurance, and deployment. You will ensure that our core Trading Floor applications are continuously upgraded to meet the evolving demands of the modern energy market.

3. Lead High-Performing, Multi-Disciplinary Teams

Direct and mentor specialized, cross-functional technical teams (including specialists from risk management, finance, and front-to-back office operations). You will foster collaboration, resolve conflicts, and guide these teams to deliver flawless system support and project success.

4. Collaborate with Tech Partners and External Vendors

Serve as the primary liaison between our internal IT department, end-users, and external software vendors. You will translate complex business needs into technical requirements, prioritize the system maintenance backlog, and maximize the overall value of our software assets.

5. Counsel Senior Executives and Guide Strategic Decisions

Provide expert, authoritative advice to BPA's senior executive leadership. You will analyze and explain how changing market regulations, new contracts, and commercial shifts will impact our trading systems, helping shape the strategic direction of our technology portfolio.

6. Resolve High-Stakes, Real-Time Operational Issues

Step in as the ultimate trouble-shooter when critical, real-time energy trading or system-scheduling issues bypass standard IT help desks. Your rapid, expert problem-solving will prevent operational disruptions in highly sensitive market windows.

7. Manage Major Vendor Contracts and Agreements

Direct and oversee vendor activities, including drafting Statements of Work (SOWs) and managing major software releases. You will ensure that external contractors deliver high-quality, secure updates that align with BPA's business requirements and evolving market conditions.

8. Ensure Flawless Quality Control and System Integration

Establish the standards and methods for identifying, tracking, and resolving software bugs. You will coordinate with IT and vendors to ensure that all system upgrades integration smoothly with upstream and downstream platforms, maintaining absolute data integrity across the agency.