Distributed Energy Resources (DER) Program Specialist

Job description

Help Shape the Future of Energy Are you energized by emerging technologies, renewable energy, and innovative solutions that strengthen the electric grid? Join WVPA as a Distributed Energy Resources (DER) Program Specialist and play a key role in expanding programs that connect distributed generation, battery storage, standby generators, demand response resources, and other cutting-edge energy technologies with the communities we serve. In this role, you'll help develop, manage, and grow WVPA's portfolio of DER programs while serving as a trusted resource to member cooperatives, customers, vendors, and industry partners. You'll combine technical knowledge, project management, and relationship-building skills to deliver programs that support grid reliability, energy resilience, and the evolving energy needs of the future. This is an exciting opportunity for someone who enjoys solving problems, working with innovative technologies, analyzing data, and making a meaningful impact in the rapidly changing energy industry. What You'll Do Manage and support distributed energy resource programs, including battery storage, distributed generation, demand response, standby generation, and emerging technologies. Partner with member cooperatives, customers, vendors, and contractors to successfully implement projects and expand participation. Serve as a technical resource on DER technologies, program requirements, and operational best practices. Monitor program performance, analyze data, and develop reports that demonstrate the value and impact of DER initiatives. Lead participant onboarding, project coordination, and operational readiness activities. Develop educational materials, trainings, presentations, and communications to support member and customer engagement. Identify opportunities to improve program processes, enhance customer experience, and scale future offerings. Stay current on emerging technologies, market trends, and industry developments that shape the future of distributed energy. Qualifications Professional Skills Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy. Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and collaboratively across departments. Demonstrated initiative in identifying opportunities for program improvement and innovation. Ability to adapt to changing technologies, regulatory requirements, and business needs. Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build productive working relationships. Certifications (Preferred) Project Management Professional (PMP) Certified Energy Manager (CEM) NABCEP Solar PV Associate or equivalent renewable energy certification Other utility, energy, or renewable energy-related certifications Travel Requirements Ability to travel periodically throughout the WVPA service territory and attend industry conferences, training programs, and member meetings. Valid driver's license required All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines Headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, Wabash Valley Power is a not-for-profit electric cooperative and wholesale provider of reliable, affordable electricity to our 21 electric distribution member cooperatives. These cooperatives in turn serve more than 280,000 homes, businesses, and farms in Indiana and Illinois. As a not-for-profit co-op, we do things a bit differently—and that’s the point. Because we aren’t influenced by shareholders, we make our decisions with our members in mind. That means we value things like teamwork, and putting families first. It also means a business model that’s designed for stability and growth. It’s a Deliberately Different approach to the energy industry, and that’s great news for the people who count on us. What You'll Get We believe what benefits our employees benefits our company. That’s why we put employees first—your health, your family, and your development. These aren’t just slogans: We offer continuing education, flex time, health benefits, a 401(k) match and pension plan, and much more. Here are just a few of the things that make our company culture unique: • No Sweat - We offer a wellness program that includes a payroll credit for medical insurance, an on-site fitness center for your convenience and extra vacation days for participating. We’ll even throw in a fitness device reimbursement to keep you on track! • Flex Time - Our flexible schedule means you can work in your appointments or family events and maintain a comfortable work-life balance. • Stay in School - We value employees who have a desire to learn, so we provide funds for continuing education. We also offer in-house training and ongoing development through our internal GROW program. • Keep it Casual - When you work for us, you work in comfort. Blue jeans are the norm in our office, and we make them look good! • Work Hard, Play Hard - We reward our employees with generous vacation time, to the tune of up to five weeks off a year. Even our new employees receive credit for prior work experience.