Economist – Energy and Environmental Systems

Overview

At PNNL, our core capabilities are divided among major departments that we refer to as Directorates within the Lab, focused on a specific area of scientific research or other function, with its own leadership team and dedicated budget.

Our Science & Technology directorates include National Security, Earth and Biological Sciences, Physical and Computational Sciences, and Energy and Environment. In addition, we have an Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory, a Department of Energy, Office of Science user facility housed on the PNNL campus.

The Electricity Infrastructure and Buildings Division, part of the Energy and Environment Directorate, is accelerating the transition to an efficient, resilient, and secure energy system through basic and applied research. We leverage a strong technical foundation in power and energy systems and advanced data analytics to drive innovation, transform markets, and shape energy policy

The Energy Policy, Economics, and Planning Group develops methods for analyzing economic impacts of energy system policies and regulations and defines new planning frameworks that speed the deployment of a modernized energy system. We work closely with subject matter experts across the broader Electricity Infrastructure & Buildings Division to support the Nation’s transition to an affordable, reliable, and secure energy system through innovative and actionable solutions.

We are looking for an Economist III to serve as a technical contributor and task leader within a multidisciplinary team of engineers, economists, researchers, and analysts. This position will support applied economic research that evaluates technology and market trends, assesses impacts on energy systems and consumers, and analyzes implications for infrastructure investment, competitiveness, and system performance—research whose outcomes will inform strategies to strengthen U.S. energy infrastructure, enhance manufacturing competitiveness, and improve long-term system resilience.

• Understanding energy system economics, including market design, cost formation, and system impacts.
• Experience analyzing energy market and economic data to assess technology trends, policy impacts, and consumer behavior.
• Evaluating market structures, cost drivers, barriers to deployment, regulatory considerations, and supply chain dynamics affecting energy system outcomes.
• Expertise in lifecycle cost analysis, cost-benefit analysis, and technoeconomic analysis to evaluate energy technologies and programs.
• Proficient in econometric techniques and quantitative methods for program assessment and policy evaluation.
• Skilled in applying economic and statistical tools to support energy investment, planning, and decision‑making.
• Communicating technical and economic findings clearly to policy makers, program managers, industry stakeholders, and technical audiences.

This position requires strong analytical and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with federal and state agencies, regional energy organizations, trade groups, and utilities. The role also involves engaging with DOE scientists and engineers, national laboratories, consultants, academics, manufacturers, trade organizations, utilities, and stakeholders across the energy supply chain, including consumers.

Project Managers will oversee assigned roles, following applicable project and field procedures, and performing assigned tasks on time and within budget.

The Energy Policy, Economics & Planning Group Leader, and Energy Economics Team Leader, will supervise general staff performance and development, operational discipline, and project execution.

On‑site in Richland WA, Seattle WA, or Portland OR is strongly preferred. Remote work may be considered.

Minimum Qualifications:

• BS/BA and 5 years of relevant work experience –OR–
• MS/MA and 3 years of relevant work experience –OR–
• PhD with 1 year of relevant experience

Preferred Qualifications:

• Graduate degree in economics (or closely related field). A doctorate degree is preferred.
• Demonstrated understanding of energy science, energy policy, or technology assessment.
• Expertise in lifecycle cost…