MANAGER, DISTRIBUTED ENERGY RESOURCE

JOB TITLE: MANAGER, DISTRIBUTED ENERGY RESOURCE

LOCATION: HAMPDEN

REPORTS TO: DIRECTOR, PROGRAM MANAGEMENT

POSITION STATUS: EXEMPT, NON-BARGAINING UNIT, FULL TIME

POSITION OVERVIEW:

In this position you will be responsible for managing the interconnection of distributed energy resources (DERs) to Versant Power’s electrical system. DERs consist of mainly solar projects and are a key requirement in supporting the state of Maine’s transition to renewable energy sources. Projects vary from small rooftop installations to large, multi-acre sites. This position is responsible for oversight of the various project phases of pre-application, application, screening, study, engineering, construction, commissioning, witness testing and closeout. You will oversee the interconnection process and ensure adherence to the proper timelines identified in Maine Public Utilities Commission (MPUC) Chapter 324, 312 & 313 rules. You will work very closely with Project managers, engineers, coordinators and other members of the team.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Manage the DER team at Versant Power; this team includes Project Managers, Project Coordinators, Schedulers and 3rd party contract resources.
• Manage the overall DER Interconnection Process across the business, working with other managers to ensure DER needs and deliverables are met.
• Manage the portfolio of capital investment associated with DER interconnections, which is between $15-$40 million annually.
• Manage and track compliance with MPUC Chapter 324 rules. Work with the Billing and Sales and Revenue teams to ensure compliance with MPUC Chapter 312 and 313 rules.
• Work closely with DER developers to proactively communicate expectations and needs, developing positive business relationships to ensure success.
• Work very closely with Versant’s Legal and Regulatory Department to ensure compliance with regulations.
• Represent Versant Power at the MPUC in matters related to DER interconnections. This includes written testimony as well as speaking at MPUC proceedings.
• Continuously monitor the interconnection process to identify improvement opportunities. Work with relevant internal and external parties to make improvements.
• Lead department safety meetings and ensure safety is a priority in the interconnection process.
• Ensure that project schedules and plans are created and maintained. This will load into a multi-year schedule with associated budget and resource identified.
• Ensure that a proper financial resource model is established, to enable full recovery of DER costs with the developer base.
• Works in accordance with the documented environmental procedures, instructions, and specific responsibilities as defined in individual procedures and instructions. Reports problems or deviations associated with environmental issues and the Environmental Management System (EMS) to the Environmental Department.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Good working knowledge and experience with DER projects.
• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or other relevant field required.
• Minimum of 5 years’ utility experience required.
• Minimum of 5 years’ supervisory experience required.
• Strong experience in project management, experience with construction preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to work well in a team-oriented program.
• Understanding of MPUC rules preferred.
• Experience with contracts and legal documents preferred.
• Microsoft Office, Excel, Smartsheet or other project management software skills required.
• Self-starter and motivated.
• Valid Driver’s License

PERSONAL QUALITIES:

• Demonstrated initiative in recognizing and implementing opportunities for improvement and efficiency.
• Forward thinking mindset and able to objectively view the program within a larger context.
• Ability to handle a changing political/regulatory environment and adjust as needed.
• Proven ability to develop and maintain effective relationships with internal and external parties; this includes excellent communication, interpersonal and problem-solving skills.
• Able to deal with ambiguity, among multiple projects and with competing business priorities.
• Foster and support a team environment to help meet goals.

NOTES:

• Position is primarily sedentary, with some walking, standing, and driving required.
• Versant Power is a tobacco free and fragrance-free workplace.

RATE OF PAY: Salary is commensurate with experience and qualifications.

01.17.2025