Interconnection Manager or Director

Position Description

Origis Energy is adding to its existing in-house transmission and grid analysis team and is seeking an experienced, creative, self-starting and highly motivated individual to manage the utility-scale solar and energy storage Interconnection pipeline across the US. They will work alongside our team of Generation Interconnection experts, which is part of our larger Project Development Team. The ideal candidate should be knowledgeable in a broad range of electrical engineering applications, have experience in the solar/storage energy sector, and be able to work collaboratively with a diverse team. 

The Generator Interconnection (Transmission) Manager/Director is heavily involved in the company’s development strategy related to its portfolio of existing and proposed utility-scale solar and energy storage projects. Director level depends on the experience of the candidate.  The Manager/Director of Interconnection will interact daily with the company’s project development team that consists of subject matter experts in real estate, environmental & permitting, engineering, origination, finance, GIS, procurement, etc. The ideal candidate will work alongside with our internal Transmission Modeling team to provide ongoing technical engineering support for various generation interconnection (GI) studies, coordinate with outside consultants to manage the GI study process associated with various utilities and ISOs, review and critique interconnection study results. The Manager of Transmission will also ensure compliance with relevant tariffs and represent the company’s interests at various Utilities/ISOs/RTOs to shape renewable energy policy.

This role is a regular, full-time position, and is eligible for our generous employee benefits package, including employer paid health insurance, paid time off, a 401(k) plan with employer matching contributions, and other great benefits.

Key Responsibilities

• Familiar with ISOs all throughout the US including but not limited to SERC, TVA, ERCOT, MISO, CAISO, and WECC
• Work closely with in-house Grid Analysis team or consultant in coordinating system modeling to identify potential POI’s for new greenfield projects
• Familiar with load flow modeling software but not actually running models
• Familiarity with load study applications and related load requirements for data centers and other large commercial loads
• Evaluation of Interconnection study reports and coordination with Business Development, Project Dev, and Finance Team
• Oversee and coordinate the entirety of the interconnection process from filing to post-GIA phases
• Manage daily interconnection tasks for various renewable projects for prospective projects and projects under development
• Develop transmission strategy and provide expert opinion for grid transmission related topics
• Familiar with Regulatory orders that may benefit renewables
• Perform due diligence on interconnection materials to support project acquisition efforts
• Working knowledge of ISO/Utility interconnection Tariffs
• Provide creative and knowledgeable input to assist in the growth of the company’s resource development pipeline; including project site identification, project size optimization, fatal flaw analysis, interconnection queue management, tariff assessment and risk mitigation strategies.
• Support budget forecasting and provide guidance to minimize financial risk throughout the GI study process.
• Suggest creative bidding strategies that utilize knowledge of the transmission system and thoughtful assessment of study results and hedging options.
• Maintain accurate GI data in the company’s proprietary database.
• Develop processes to effectively manage all interconnection planning activities.
• Provide regular reports to management and project teams regarding project milestones and critical path decisions.
• Coordinate with internal teams and outside consultants to reach consensus on interconnection strategy and estimated project costs.
• Participate in various public forums and represent the interests of the company at industry related meetings, conferences and/or legislative events.
• Develop strong relationships with outside stakeholders such as ISO/RTO representatives.
• Final – Coordination with management and legal to support execution of the Interconnection Agreement

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering required, preferably with an emphasis in power systems.
• Master of Science Degree in Power Systems and/or a Master of Business Administration Degree highly preferred.
• 5-7 years of experience in renewable power system analysis or related fields.
• Experience using industry relevant software such as PSSE, PSLF or PowerWorld 
• Generation Interconnection model development experience at a utility or RTO is strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated competence in FERC/ISO RTO working groups, contract negotiations, or other related business experience is also valued.
• Must have good analytical, decision-making, communication, creative problem-solving, and human relations skills.
• Must be organized, self-motivated and capable of working both independently and in group settings.

Key Attributes for Success

• Ability to attract, train, mentor, and retain talented employees
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
• Strong organizational, problem-solving, and leadership skills
• High attention to detail
• Ability to multi-task and work in a very fast-paced environment
• Team-oriented with excellent interpersonal skills and ability to develop collaborative working relationships across multiple functional areas in the organization
• Has a strong customer mindset
• Ability to work with all levels of management and key stakeholders

Location           Austin, TX; remote considered for the right individual

Travel               Up to 20% travel as needed 

Job Level          Manager or Director – no direct reports