The following job opportunity information is posted on behalf of The Lansing Board of Water and Light

The Lansing Board of Water & Light has an opening for an Analyst Bulk Power II in Lansing, MI.

Position Summary:

Responsible for accumulation and analysis of all purchased power and electric wholesale data transactions and reports to support Bulk Power objectives. This position is also responsible for accumulation, analysis and reporting of natural gas transportation and power plant gas transactions.   Position is required to do wholesale and purchased power budget reporting and analysis.  Responsible for counterparty credit reporting.

Essential Functions:

• Accumulates, verifies, and analyzes transaction and metering data for the BWL’s Belle River interest through the MPPA (Michigan Public Power Agency). Shadows all wholesale and purchased power electric activity done through MPPA. Studies and uses BR financial statements to support budget analysis.
• Verifies and reconciles transmission project data through MPPA/METC (Michigan Electric Transmission Company).
• Gathers and submits to MISO BWL and ITC monthly peak load data
• Serves as Alternate Board Member at the MPPA for the BWL.
• Verifies and reconciles all MISO market business and related tariffs that the BWL transacts through MISO (Midcontinent Independent System Operator). Study FERC filings that may affect the BWL.  Also responsible for handing items like dispute resolutions, asset registration, annual MISO certification and disclosure documents, annual minimum capitalization verification, attachment B, etc.
• Attends MISO Settlement User Group and other regular MISO meetings
• Verification and reporting of MISO transmission charges as well as processing and entering MISO transmission bills.
• Maintains current transmission rates in the OATI system.
• Provides wholesale and purchased power monthly budget results for presentations to BWL Board of Commissioners, BWL executive staff and BWL management.
• Uses and helps to develops computer-based applications to support bulk power functions. Writes and edits complex spreadsheets and spreadsheet formulas for the accurate reporting of wholesale and purchased power results.
• Creates, verifies, and submits monthly wholesale and purchased power journal vouchers to General Accounting.
• Responsible for compiling and calculating monthly allocation of gas to steam journal voucher for General Accounting.
• Performs credit analysis on BWL power and gas counterparties. Uses financial ratios, financial statements, and credit reporting data for analysis.

• Participation in the continuous improvement of the Asset Management System and Work Management processes.

• Responsible for gathering data required for the analysis and reporting of all natural gas transactions for the BWL gas plants. This includes verifying cost and volumes of gas purchases against confirmations, verifying gas plant meter data, verifying provider transportation and related rates charges. Gathering rate adjustment data through the MPSC.  Reporting and reconciling natural gas financial statement data.  Creating PRs and correctly adjusting inventory transactions through SAP as well as verifying invoices and entering Invoice Works for timely payments.
• Prepares generation and load forecasts and assists in the evaluation of short-term power needs/surplus.
• Reconciles EMS (Energy Management System), metering and transaction data.
• Prepares detailed billing files in accordance with contractual terms and confirms transactions with counterparties for buying green power.
• Provide General Accounting with year-end wholesale, purchased power and generation percentage reports and other ad hoc reports as requested.
• Supports internal and external auditors with various requests for information.
• Works with BWL Risk Management to make sure Back Office duties are satisfied in accordance with the BWL Risk Management Policy.
• Provides information and support to other BWL departments such as Energy and Eco Strategies, General Accounting and Finance.
• Leader and trainer of the bulk power settlements area.
• Provides data for the support of third-party sales, capacity sales, bids and/or offers. Predictable and reliable attendance.
• Other duties as assigned by supervisor.

Job Specifications:

Required:

• This position requires the knowledge which would normally be acquired through a Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Information Technology, Engineering, Business, or a related field; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• A minimum of seven years of accounting analyst experience (including three years as a MISO).
• Must become MISO/MMI (Midwest ISO/Midwest Market Initiative) certified within one year of date of hire.
• Working knowledge of generation systems analysis, contractual billings or computer systems.
• The ideal candidate will possess the following knowledge, skills and abilities: knowledge of bulk power trading procedures, relations and contacts; ability to learn and understand the MISO/MMI provisions and procedures as the MMI unfolds and evolves; networking/relationship; political astuteness; financial analysis; oral and written communications; analytical thinking; conceptual thinking; initiative; integrity and ethics; self-confidence; and proactive skills related to computer enhancements, a constantly changing work environment, and training functions involving the Bulk Power Office Specialist.
• Demonstrated extensive experience with software applications, verified by accepted standardized test(s) at appropriate levels to include: Microsoft Excel and Access (advanced), Word and Front Page (intermediate), and Visual Basic (beginning); submittal of verification of demonstrated experience in the aforementioned software applications via training certification documentation may be substituted for testing.
• Qualifications and experience in the following areas are preferred: wholesale electric billing, EMS/MV-90 and MISO/MMI certified.
• Must have valid MI driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.

Preferred:

• Previous electric and gas experience a plus.

Physical Requirements / Working Conditions:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Must be able to remain in a stationary position for the majority of the working day. The person in this position needs to move about inside the office environment. Constantly operates a computer and other office equipment. Ability to adjust focus, especially due to concentration on a computer screen. Must communicate frequently with other departments and employees both verbally and in writing. May need to lift and carry up to 30 pounds and/or position the body to reach items on the floor/ below the knee level or reach above head. On occasion, may need to use stairs.

Constantly works in a temperature-controlled office environment.

Must successfully complete a background check, a substance screening and a physical (if applicable).

Why Should You Apply?

• Competitive salary, employee development, and opportunity for professional growth.
• Robust time off benefits including vacation, free choice, sick leave, and paid holidays.
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, prescription, dental, life insurance, long-term disability, and employee assistance program
• Retirement programs including 401a (100% company paid up to 13% of base salary), 457 match up to $2,500 per year, retiree medical
• Voluntary benefits including supplemental and dependent life insurance, vision, flexible spending, AFLAC options, LifeLock anti-theft, long term care, tuition reimbursement, HOPE loan

About BWL:

The Board of Water & Light serves Lansing, Michigan, and surrounding areas with electricity, water, and steam. Lansing’s city charter vests the BWL with full and exclusive management of water, steam, and electric services for or the city. The American Public Power Association has honored the Lansing Board of Water & Light as one of the country’s best publicly owned utilities.

The Location:
Lansing, MI provides the opportunity to enjoy all seasons of fun and beauty. With the Grand River open for kayaking, lush golf courses, 17+ miles of trails for biking/hiking/running, Potter Park Zoo, and the sports, the arts and fine foods that comes from being near a major University, Michigan State University, there is a spot for everyone. The area is a short drive from Lake Michigan’s shoreline where there is views of natural beauty, boating, fishing, and windsurfing.
THE BOARD OF WATER & LIGHT IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER