Regional Affairs Analyst (REMOTE within the Western US)

Company Description

The California Independent System Operator (ISO) manages the flow of electricity across the high-voltage, long-distance power lines that make up 80 percent of California's power grid. We safeguard the economy and well-being of 30 million Californians by operating the grid reliably 24/7.

As the impartial grid operator, the California ISO opens access to the wholesale power market that is designed to diversify resources and lower prices. It also grants equal access to 25,865 circuit-miles of power lines and reduces barriers to diverse resources competing to bring power to customers.

The California ISO's function is often compared to that of air traffic controllers. It would be grossly unfair for air traffic controllers to represent one airline and profit from allowing that company's planes to go through before others. In the same way, the California ISO operates independently—managing the electron traffic on a power grid we do not own—making sure electricity is safely delivered to utilities and consumers on time and reliably.

The California ISO is committed to the health, safety and work/life integration of its employees and is proud to offer flexible work arrangements. This position would be eligible to participate in a fully remote work capacity.

Relocation assistance is available.

Job Description

Under the general direction of the Manager, supports the External Affairs division by examining western legislative and regulatory proceedings and conducting outreach to the ISO’s state partners across the West to meet the strategic goals of the organization. Collaborates with other ISO divisions to align public information and outreach efforts, emphasizing the importance of regional coordination and business development. Key responsibilities include relationship development, monitoring and analyzing the work of western state commissions and legislatures. Attends commission, legislative, and state committee meetings and workshops and documents relevant matters. Reviews and summarizes key reports and correspondence and assists in the development and implementation of an outreach strategy to facilitate timely, robust, and appropriate engagement in and support of ISO processes impacting the region. Supports efforts of advisory bodies to the Western Energy Markets (WEM) Governing Body, including the Regional Issues Forum (RIF) and the WEM Body of State Regulators (BOSR). Provides advisory bodies with timely ISO updates and facilitates meetings, agenda development, and training opportunities.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:  

• Regularly monitors and reports on relevant western legislative and regulatory proceedings where state actions may impact the work or goals of the ISO, including summarizing key themes and action items from commission or legislative workshops and meetings. Maintains a current inventory and technical knowledge of key regional initiatives and proceedings. With guidance from Manager, acts as internal liaison to other departments and division staff to ensure they are aware of important regional matters and upcoming state commission and legislative events or milestones that may affect or be of interest to the ISO.
   
• Participates in efforts to incorporate feedback from western regulators, commission staff, and other regional stakeholders, to effectively respond to their concerns and questions. Coordinates with departments throughout the ISO to align messaging and direction. Supports new staff at state agencies by providing background information and educational opportunities about the ISO and follows up with them to ensure engagement and participation. With guidance from Manager, develops strong relationships with state commission staff. Maintains updated state and stakeholder contact lists and ensures that important documents, reports, and presentations are organized, easily accessible, and up to date.
   
• Provides staff support to the WEM Regional Issues Forum (RIF) and RIF Sector Liaisons, helps to maintain sector contact lists, facilitates agenda development, and helps to facilitate virtual and in-person RIF meetings. Assists the Manager in supporting the transition of the RIF to the Pathways Stakeholder Representative Committee. Provides support, conducts outreach, and facilitates training opportunities for the WEM Body of State Regulators (BOSR) and other ISO state partners.
   
• Coordinates with the ISO’s Communications division to ensure up-to-date information is available on the ISO and Western Energy Market websites, such as calendars, presentations, social media, and other outreach materials.
   
• Prepares general background research for management in advance of meetings and other outreach engagements, including information about state representatives, legislative trends, presentation slides, summaries of ISO