Operations and Planning Associate

The Role

Utility Services is seeking an Associate to join our growing compliance consulting team. This role supports electric utilities and other power industry participants in meeting the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) Operations and Planning (O&P) Reliability Standards.

As an O&P Associate, you will establish & develop a high level of understanding of NERC reliability standards for implementation with our customers. A role as an Associate means you will utilize your tangible skills to develop NERC expertise and grow into greater responsibilities as an Analyst, typically around the one-year mark.

About Us

Utility Services was founded over 16 years ago and is a growing compliance and security consulting firm based in Vermont, specializing in helping electric utilities navigate the complex landscape of the NERC Reliability Standards and strengthen their operational compliance programs.

The electric sector is undergoing significant transformation as the grid evolves to support renewable energy, large computational loads, and new technologies, and we’re looking for someone who wants to adapt with us.

Our employees work a hybrid schedule, spending two days per week in our office in Waterbury, Vermont, and three days working remotely. Waterbury is located near some of Vermont’s best hiking, mountain biking, and skiing, and is approximately 30 minutes from Burlington, Vermont’s largest city.

What You’ll Do

Technical Compliance Work

• Gain an understanding of the compliance and regulatory challenges facing electric industry participants, including other agencies or resources, such as, but limited to, the ISOs, PUC, etc.
• Review technical materials such as one-line diagrams and system models
• Monitor and interpret regulatory developments from FERC, NERC, and Regional Entities

Program Development & Internal Contributions

• Identify and implement improvements to internal processes and tools
• Support the development of new service offerings and business opportunities

Industry Engagement

• Participate in industry groups, forums, and standard development activities
• Maintain awareness of emerging issues impacting Operations & Planning compliance

Experience

• Associate or bachelor’s degree in engineering, electrical engineering, or related technical field, or equivalent military/technical experience
• Willingness to learn and understand NERC Reliability Standards
• Experience supporting audits, compliance programs, or regulatory initiatives
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills
• Ability to work independently while collaborating within a team environment
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools
• Excited about staying in or returning to Vermont

Why This Opportunity

• Join an established company as we grow
• Rapid growth from Associate to Analyst depending on your first-year proficiency

Benefits

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Work Location

Hybrid remote in Waterbury, VT 05676