Manager Load Forecasting and Analysis

Manages day-to-day and strategic direction for Load Forecasting and Analysis, including setting the roadmap for evolving forecasting capabilities through the use of advanced analytics and emerging machine learning and AI approaches.  Builds and leads a multidisciplinary team of forecasting, meteorology and data science professionals responsible for delivering forecasts to support system operations and planning, including weather-informed and renewable generation forecasting support, while encouraging innovation and continuous improvement. Manages the design, development, implementation, and operation of ERCOT’s Load Forecasting and Load Profiling functions, including probabilistic and next-generation forecasting methodologies to support system operability and decision-making under uncertainty. Directs load research sample design, data collection, and analysis required for Load Forecasting and Load Profiling, using data sources such as weather, distributed energy resources (DERs), electric vehicles, and market data to improve forecast accuracy. Oversees management of data and computing systems used to support the forecasting process.

JOB DUTIES

• Responsible for hiring, coaching, training, and performance management of staff.
• Reviews and approves staff timesheets and leave requests
• Frequently interacts with reporting supervisors, customers, and/or functional peer group managers, normally involving matters between functional areas or customers.
• Responsible for the management and development of a multidisciplinary team supporting forecasting, data analysis, and modeling functions, including coaching, training, and performance management. Typically has individual contributors as direct reports but may also have supervisory direct reports, with   responsibility for team performance.
• Generally provides input to budgeting and financial decisions that impact the department. Requests approval for financial actions beyond a limited scope.
• Supports the evaluation and adoption of advanced analytics, machine learning, and AI methods within forecasting processes.
• Leads continuous improvement of forecasting processes, tools, and methodologies.

ADDITIONAL JOB DUTIES

• Provides oversight of meteorological support for operational and planning forecasts, including load, wind, and solar generation, and supports weather-related risk assessment and situational awareness for grid operations.
• Prepares and administers budgets and financial goals for the department
• Manages the resources and day-to-day operations of Load Forecasting and Load Profiling functions to assure efficiency and productivity of personnel
• Manages the overall operation, maintenance, and enhancement of Load Profiling System to ensure that accurate and timely data is provided to the Data Aggregation, Settlements, EMS, Market Participants, and other stakeholders
• Ensures that Load Forecasting and Load Profiling business rules and guidelines are properly developed, applied, and maintained
• Develops and implements policies and procedures related to Load Forecasting and Load Profiling systems
• Develops, monitors, and refines workflow and business processes to meet the goals of the Load Forecasting and Load Profiling functions
• Actively participates in stakeholder process as an expert resource on Load Forecasting and Load Profiling
• Manages statistical and economic data analysis for load forecasting purposes across ERCOT for use in load forecast model development and evaluation
• Manages statistical sample design and data analysis for load research across ERCOT for use in load profile model development and evaluation
• Serves as an expert witness for Load Forecasting and Load Profiling issues with the Governing Board and regulatory bodies
• Defines and monitors operational systems’ functional requirements, deployment strategies, testing requirements, and strategic direction
• Facilitates systems development, product implementation, certification and testing criteria and general workflow procedures with other departments and ERCOT clients by effectively managing projects and contracts
• Directs the profiling of individual retail customer premises
• Negotiates both contract and commercial terms associated with weather vendors, load research services, and Load Forecasting and Load Profiling systems vendors

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE

• Requires minimum 8 years job related work experience and 2 years in a leadership role in excess of degree requirements. Minimum years of job-related experience can include time in leadership roles.
• Minimum 8 years of experience in load forecasting

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE

• Strong analytical background, economics, or operations research such as modeling.
• Demonstrated experience presenting to technical, executive audiences, and key stakeholders internally and externally.
• Experience in executing and implementing advanced analytical AI tools and techniques.
• Proven ability leading cross functional teams.

EDUCATION

• Bachelor's Degree: Electrical Engineering or related field (Required)
• Master's Degree: Electrical Engineering, Business Administration, or related field (Preferred)
• or a combination of education and experience that provides equivalent knowledge to a major in such fields is required

CERTIFICATION

• PE Professional Engineer (Preferred)

WORK LOCATION – Taylor, TX:

• Employees will be required to be on-site in Taylor, TX at a minimum of 2 days per week, or more, as needed based on the business needs as determined by management
• May be required to be onsite during grid events
• Remote work is required to be performed from your Texas residence  
• Employees may opt to work on-site more than required or 100% of the time 

The foregoing description reflects the minimum qualifications and the essential functions of the position that must be performed proficiently with or without reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities.  It is not an exhaustive list of the duties expected to be performed, and management may, at its discretion, revise or require that other or different tasks be performed as assigned.  This job description is not intended to create a contract of employment with ERCOT.  Both ERCOT and the employee may exercise their employment-at-will rights at any time.  #LI-MH1, #LI-Hybrid

ERCOT is firmly committed to equal employment for all qualified persons without regard to race, sex, medical condition, religion, age, creed, national origin, citizenship status, marital status, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, ancestry, veteran status, genetic information or any other protected category under federal, state or local law.

Expected Salary Range:

$144,161 - $245,100