DER Operations Coordinator

City of Loveland • Loveland, CO

7h • Hybrid

About The Position

Under the supervision of the DER Manager, this position will help advance distributed energy resource (DER), virtual power plant (VPP), energy efficiency, and beneficial electrification strategies that support Loveland’s distribution system reliability, cost-effectiveness, and carbon objectives. The position works closely with the DER Manager, Platte River Power Authority (PRPA), and internal departments to align local system needs with regional transmission priorities. The role blends distribution system technical awareness, program strategy, stakeholder coordination, and analytical evaluation to shape and implement grid-flexibility programs that deliver measurable local and system-wide benefits.

Requirements

• Valid Driver's License.
• 4 Year/Bachelors Degree in engineering, economics, business, environmental studies, energy systems, or related field. An equivalent combination of education and or experience may substitute for education requirements on a year for year basis.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience managing or supporting complex energy programs such as demand response, time-of-use, load flexibility, DER integration, or energy efficiency.
• Strong analytical ability to interpret energy data, cost-effectiveness modeling, and grid performance metrics.
• Working knowledge of DER technologies including solar PV, battery storage, EV charging, smart thermostats, and IoT-enabled devices.
• Familiarity with distribution system operations, energy management platforms, and basic SCADA concepts.
• Project management capabilities including budgeting, RFP development, and vendor management.
• Ability to balance local distribution system priorities with regional transmission system considerations.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for technical and non-technical audiences.
• Collaborative mindset and ability to work across departments and organizations.

Nice To Haves

• Some experience working with municipal utility strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop working knowledge of Loveland’s electric distribution system, including substations, feeders, load growth trends, and areas requiring congestion relief or capacity support.
• Identify feeders and substations that may benefit from DER-enabled congestion relief or non-wires alternatives.
• Advocate for DER dispatch strategies and resource grouping that maximize both local distribution value and systemwide benefits across the PRPA transmission system.
• Collaborate with the DER Manager to define Loveland’s strategy for participation in Virtual Power Plants (VPPs) and other load flexibility initiatives.
• Promote internal discussions of DER, demand response, time-of-use, energy efficiency, and beneficial electrification programs.
• Partner with PRPA and other owner communities to shape programs that balance integrated resource and transmission-level objectives with Loveland’s local grid needs.
• Analyze VPP and program costs and benefits in collaboration with PRPA by setting clear goals and targets, defining measurable performance metrics, and establishing cost-effectiveness thresholds aligned with strategic objectives.
• Support implementation and continuous improvement of energy programs in coordination with PRPA.
• Lead or contribute to RFP development, vendor coordination, budgeting, and contract oversight.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders (engineering, Customer Experience, legal, finance) to build positive public perception of DER programs and ensure program feasibility and alignment.
• Coordinate with external stakeholders (PRPA, regulators, contractors, customers) to ensure compliance and effective implementation.
• Maintain awareness of applicable state and federal regulations and reporting requirements.
• Prepare presentations, briefings, and reports for leadership and governing boards.
• Support utility council communications, program documentation, and reporting efforts.
• Monitor industry trends in DER aggregation, grid modernization, and load flexibility markets.
• Assist with customer and contractor outreach related to DER and electrification initiatives.
• Contribute to long-term planning related to load growth, electrification, and grid modernization.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Two (2) Medical plans, Dental, Vision (for self/ spouse/ children)
• A Dedicated, exclusive Employee Health and Wellness Center
• Discounted Chilson Center passes
• Paid vacation, holidays, floating holidays, and medical leave
• Flexible spending including Dependent Care
• Life Insurance, AD&D, Short-term and Long-term disability, and voluntary Critical Illness Coverage
• Retirement 401a, 457, Roth (pre-& post tax) and company match
• A Comprehensive Employee Assistance Program
• Voluntary 529 College Invest program
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Employee Referral Program
• Personal and Professional Development opportunities
• Employee Recognition Program
• Exceptional work-life balance
• Market based pay & regular performance reviews
• Local Government employment is eligible for Public Loan Forgiveness Program

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level