Utility Financial Analyst 1/2 (PCN 086007)

About the Department

What you will be doing:

The Utility Financial Analyst (UFA) 1 is an entry level position responsible for reviewing, analyzing and providing recommendations regarding power cost equalization (PCE) calculations for nonregulated electric utilities, as well as other routine, non-complex financial filings for regulated entities. The UFA 2 is the journey level position responsible for independently reviewing, analyzing and providing recommendations for complex PCE calculations and other routine and non-routine financial filings of moderate complexity, including rate filings for regulated entities. The UFA 2 assists higher-level UFAs with more complex analysis and provides training and direction to lower-level UFAs regarding PCE calculations.

The UFA 1/2 verifies the mathematical accuracy and reasonableness of proposed rates by applying appropriate auditing techniques and generally accepted ratemaking principles, determining the elements of calculations and preparing highly detailed, well-supported recommendations to the Commission. The Finance section uses database applications to perform research, and spreadsheet/word processing applications to develop and review calculations and prepare written reports. The UFA 1/2 works with utility representatives and other Commission staff to ensure proposed rates are accurate and aligned with applicable authority, the Commissioners are well-informed, and Commission rulings are executed within statutory timelines.

Our organization, mission, and culture: 

The Commission is charged with ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable utility and pipeline services are provided to Alaskans at just and reasonable rates. The availability of utility services, and the rates, rules, terms and conditions of those services are governed by statute and regulation and enforced by the Commission. Five full-time commissioners are appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Alaska State Legislature, overseeing a team of analysts, administrative law judges, consumer protection officers and support staff. The Commission regulates a broad range of utility services including electric, natural gas, natural gas storage, steam heat, pipeline, refuse, sewer, telecommunications, and water services, overseeing regulated entities through certification, regulation of rates and services, tariff review, dispute resolution, and consumer protection services. The Commission also calculates amounts for the power cost equalization (PCE) program and serves as an information resource for the executive and legislative branches of government.

Benefits of joining our team: 

The Commission offers a competitive employment package including excellent benefits and flexible leave, a hybrid working environment, opportunities for professional growth and development, and the potential for advancement. As a member of the Finance Section within the Advisory Section, the UFA 1/2 is part of a cohesive team of analysts specializing in finance, engineering, tariffs, and common carrier matters, working together to achieve a common goal for the benefit of Alaskans. Collaboration is key to the success of the agency, including our reliable and consistent support staff. The new UFA 1/2 will receive hands-on internal training, coaching and support throughout the process, as well as opportunities for outside specialized training at both the state and national levels.

The working conditions you can expect:

The Commission is located in the heart of beautiful downtown Anchorage. The daily work environment is busy and productive with varying timelines to be managed. The UFA 1/2 works directly with utility representatives and other staff to ensure timely processing of filings. Staff presents recommendations and fields questions from Commissioners during confidential adjudications or other public meetings. Most of the work is performed using spreadsheet, word processing, email and case management software.

Who we are looking for:

• Industry: Demonstrated knowledge of the PCE program or experience with utility/pipeline carrier rate filings; knowledge of utility/pipeline carrier regulation; ability to understand, interpret, and apply Alaska regulatory statutes and regulations.
• Mathematical: Demonstrated ability to review data and verify accuracy of calculations and ensure proper support is provided as required by statutes and regulations.
• Financial Analysis: Demonstrated knowledge of the principles, methods, and techniques of financial analysis and auditing. 
• Writing: Demonstrated ability to use correct English grammar, punctuation, and spelling to produce written information, which may include technical material, for different audiences; ability to write clearly, concisely, and effectively develop conclusions and provide recommendations.
• Presentation: Demonstrated experience preparing complex technical reports, making recommendations and fielding questions.

Position Duties

Minimum Qualifications for the Utility Financial Analyst 1
Any combination of education and/or experience that provides the applicant with competencies in 
 

• Accounting: Knowledge of traditional accounting practices including accrual, obligations, and costs methods.

 

• Analytical Thinking/Problem Solving: uses a logical, systematic, sequential approach to address problems or opportunities or manage a situation by drawing on one’s knowledge and experience base and calling on other references and resources as necessary.

 

• Computer Skills: Uses computers, software applications, databases, and automated systems to accomplish work.

 

• Decision Support: Knowledge of decision support theories, methods, and tools for identifying, synthesizing, representing, and evaluating the important aspects of a decision situation and prescribing the recommended course for decision makers and other stakeholders. 

 

• Writing: Recognizes or uses correct English grammar, punctuation, and spelling; communicates information (for example, facts, ideas, or messages) in a brief, clear, and organized manner; produces written information, which may include technical material, that is appropriate for the intended audience.

 
Equivalent to those typically gained by:

Any combination of preparatory post-secondary education and/or experience in accounting, finance, business administration, public administration, or a closely related field/industry.    
 
Special Note:
“Competencies” means a combination of interrelated knowledge, skills, abilities, and behaviors that enable a person to act effectively in a job or situation.
  
“Typically gained by” means the prevalent, usual method of gaining the competencies expected for entry into the job.
  
“Training” and “education” in this guidance are synonyms for the process of acquiring knowledge and skills through instruction. It includes instruction through formal and informal methods (such as classroom, on-line, self-study, and on-the-job), from accredited and unaccredited sources, and long-duration (such as a post-secondary degree) and short-duration (such as a seminar) programs.   

Minimum Qualifications for the Utility Financial Analyst 2 
Any combination of education and/or experience that provides the applicant with competencies in 
 

• Accounting: Knowledge of traditional accounting practices including accrual, obligations, and costs methods.

 

• Analytical Thinking/Problem Solving: uses a logical, systematic, sequential approach to address problems or opportunities or manage a situation by drawing on one’s knowledge and experience base and calling on other references and resources as necessary.

 

• Compliance: Knowledge of procedures for assessing, evaluating, and monitoring programs or projects for compliance with Federal laws, regulations, and guidance

 

• Decision Making: Makes sound, well-informed, and objective decisions; perceives the impact and implications of decisions; commits to action, even in uncertain situations, to accomplish organizational goals; causes change.

 

• Writing: Recognizes or uses correct English grammar, punctuation, and spelling; communicates information (for example, facts, ideas, or messages) in a brief, clear, and organized manner; produces written information, which may include technical material, that is appropriate for the intended audience.

 
 
Equivalent to those typically gained by:

Any combination of preparatory post-secondary education and/or progressively responsible experience in accounting, finance, business administration, public administration, or a closely related field/industry.    
 
Special Note:
“Competencies” means a combination of interrelated knowledge, skills, abilities, and behaviors that enable a person to act effectively in a job or situation.
  
“Typically gained by” means the prevalent, usual method of gaining the competencies expected for entry into the job.
  
“Training” and “education” in this guidance are synonyms for the process of acquiring knowledge and skills through instruction. It includes instruction through formal and informal methods (such as classroom, on-line, self-study, and on-the-job), from accredited and unaccredited sources, and long-duration (such as a post-secondary degree) and short-duration (such as a seminar) programs.
 
“Progressively responsible” means indicating growth and/or advancement in complexity, difficulty, or level of responsibility. 

Minimum Qualifications

*SPECIAL NOTICE*

Please ensure to document in your application how your education and/or experience meets the competencies specific to the level you are applying for (if applying for both the Utility 1 and 2, please address competencies for both). Writing is an important part of this position.

At time of application, applicants are required to submit:

• Post-secondary transcripts, if using education to meet minimum qualifications. 

• At least two (2) originally authored writing samples.

If you are selected to advance to the interview phase of the recruitment process, you must provide the following at the time of the interview:

• Copies of your three (3) most recent evaluations; and
• Three (3) professional references who have had supervisory responsibility over you along with their daytime contact phone numbers.

FLEXIBLY STAFFED POSITION

This position is flexibly staffed. The level of the job offer will be based on the selected candidate’s credibly possessed and proven competencies. If hired at the lower level, you will be promoted to the higher level after successfully completing the training plan and demonstrating competency in the work.

EDUCATION
If post-secondary education is required to meet the minimum qualifications, you must fill in the Education section of the application. If you have not obtained a degree, please indicate the number of units completed. Copies of transcripts are required to verify educational credentials if used to meet the minimum qualifications for a position. Transcripts can be attached at the time of application or provided at the time of interview.

WORK EXPERIENCE
If using work experience not already documented in your application, also provide the employer name, your job title, dates of employment, and whether full-or part-time. Applications will be reviewed to determine if the responses are supported and minimum qualifications are clearly met. If they are not, the applicant may not advance to the interview and selection phase of the recruitment.

MULTIPLE VACANCIES
This recruitment may be used for more than one (1) vacancy. The applicant pool acquired during this recruitment may be used for future vacancies for up to ninety (90) days after this recruitment closes. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply to each recruitment notice to ensure consideration for all vacancies.
 
NOTICE
Questions regarding the application process can be directed to the Workplace Alaska hotline at 800-587-0430 (toll free) or (907) 465- 4095. If you choose to be contacted by email, please ensure your email address is correct on your application and that the spam filter will permit email from the 'govermentjobs.com' domains.  For information on allowing emails from the 'governmentjobs.com' domains, visit the Lost Password Help page located at https://www.governmentjobs.com/OnlineApplication/User/ResetPassword
 
EEO STATEMENT
The State of Alaska complies with Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Individuals with disabilities, who require accommodation, auxiliary aides or services, or alternative communication formats, please call 1-800-587-4095 in Juneau or TTY: Alaska Relay 711 or 1-800-770-8973 or correspond with the Division of Personnel & Labor Relations at: P. O. Box 110201, Juneau, AK 99811-0201. The State of Alaska is an equal opportunity employer.

WORKPLACE ALASKA APPLICATION QUESTIONS & ASSISTANCE
Questions regarding application submission or system operation errors should be directed to the Workplace Alaska hotline at 1-800-587-0430 (toll free) or (907) 465-4095 if you are located in the Juneau area. Requests for information may also be emailed to [email protected].
 
For applicant password assistance please visit: https://www.governmentjobs.com/OnlineApplication/User/ResetPassword 

Other Qualifications