Regulatory Affairs Specialist (Austin, TX)

Position Summary: We are seeking a Regulatory Affairs Specialist to join our team and contribute to the oversight and analysis of the wholesale electricity markets administered by ERCOT. This role is essential in ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and supporting the Independent Market Monitor (IMM) in its interactions with the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT). The ideal candidate will possess strong research and writing skills, the ability to build relationships across organizations, and the organizational capacity to manage multiple deliverables.

Primary Responsibilities:

Legal and Regulatory Activities:

  • Conduct detailed regulatory research, including statutes and regulations, and develop strategies or frameworks based on findings.
  • Enforcement activities including analysis of non-compliance cases and recommendations of potential sanction paths and outcomes within Texas regulation.
  • Compare and contrast Texas regulations with other regulatory frameworks (e.g., FERC, SEC) to aid in further developing Texas compliance regulation in the wholesale energy sector.
  • Maintain strong working relationships with PUCT staff by staying informed on PUCT proceedings, meeting agendas, and technical workshops.
  • Serve as a conduit for contract deliverable work product. Knowledge of the Potomac Economics contract with the PUCT is essential.

Work Product Contribution:

  • Position the IMM to successfully navigate deliverables to and communication with the PUCT.
  • Collaborate with IMM subject matter experts.
  • Contribute to the development of written work products, which include reports and comments on market performance and design.  Enhance the readability and clarity of reports intended for broader audiences, ensuring that complex technical details are communicated effectively.

Skills and Experience:

  • Strong understanding of regulatory frameworks and processes, with the ability to conduct in-depth research and synthesize findings.
  • Excellent writing skills to balance technical content with accessibility for a wider audience.
  • Proven ability to build and maintain relationships across organizations, particularly with PUCT and ERCOT.
  • Highly organized and attentive to details, with the ability to manage topics, processes, timelines, and deliverables effectively.

Qualifications:

  • No minimum experience required, but candidates must demonstrate the ability to learn quickly and process technical information effectively.
  • Preferred: Experience with ERCOT electricity market or other wholesale electricity markets.
  • Preferred: J.D. degree or Masters in Economics or Public Policy