Launch Your Career: Public Utilities Specialist (Contracts) at the Bonneville Power Administration
Are you looking to make a meaningful impact on the nation's energy infrastructure? The Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) is currently seeking a detail-oriented and strategic Public Utilities Specialist to join our Contract Administration team in beautiful Vancouver, Washington. This role offers the unique opportunity to manage high-stakes energy agreements that keep the Pacific Northwest powered and secure. Whether you are an experienced contract professional or an expert in grid interconnections, this position provides a platform to influence the future of energy transmission.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will serve as the commercial bridge between BPA and energy partners. Key duties include:
- Grid Management: Facilitating customer requests to connect new energy generation to the transmission system.
- Contract Execution: Drafting and managing complex agreements for engineering studies, equipment upgrades, and construction projects.
- Advisory: Providing strategic guidance to agency leadership regarding regulatory compliance and commercial risks.
- Operational Improvement: Analyzing and streamlining contracting workflows to improve project delivery times.
Requirements
Applicants must be U.S. citizens and meet the specific specialized experience benchmarks:
- GS-11: One year of experience at the GS-09 level (or equivalent), or qualifying graduate education.
- GS-12: One year of experience at the GS-11 level (or equivalent).
Comparison of Grade Levels
| Feature | GS-11 Level | GS-12 Level |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Required | 1 Year at GS-09 | 1 Year at GS-11 |
| Education Substitution | Available | Not Available |
| Scope | Assisting in management | Independent management |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range of $80,465 to $125,378 per year, commensurate with experience and grade level selection.
Benefits
Employees at BPA benefit from robust federal health insurance, retirement options, and the innovative 'Be Well' program, which supports career, physical, and financial wellness.
Application Tips
To maximize your chances, ensure your two-page resume includes specific hours per week, salary details, and comprehensive duties for every job listed. Do not forget to register your account on the official portal and monitor your email for the required online assessment.
If you possess the skills to navigate complex regulatory environments and the passion to support renewable energy integration, we encourage you to apply. Join the Bonneville Power Administration and help us power the future.
Why This Public Utilities Specialist (Contracts) Job Matters
Help power the Pacific Northwest! Join the Bonneville Power Administration and shape the future of energy by bridging the gap between grid innovation and complex utility contracting.
Public Utilities Specialist (Contracts) Job Overview
The Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) is seeking a dedicated Public Utilities Specialist (Contracts) to join our team in Vancouver, Washington. In this pivotal role, you will manage energy grid connection requests and oversee the full lifecycle of technical service agreements. You will work at the intersection of policy, finance, and engineering, ensuring our transmission systems remain reliable and efficient while facilitating the transition to future energy resources.
Requirements for Public Utilities Specialist (Contracts)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Registration with the Selective Service (for males born after 1959)
- Ability to report in-person to the duty station in Vancouver, WA
- Must pass a preliminary background check
- One year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level (GS-09 for GS-11; GS-11 for GS-12)
- Successful completion of required USA Hire competency-based assessments
Preferred Qualifications for Public Utilities Specialist (Contracts)
- Experience managing customer interconnection requests in an electric utility or power industry setting
- Proficiency in administering technical service contracts, including milestone tracking and financial auditing
- Knowledge of OMB Circular A-123 and federal financial management regulations
- Strong ability to interpret complex federal energy regulations and tariffs
- Expertise in providing strategic policy guidance to internal and external stakeholders
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs
- ✓Competitive federal retirement plans
- ✓Flexible work-life balance programs
- ✓Wellness initiatives through the 'Be Well' program
- ✓Stable, self-funded nonprofit agency environment
- ✓Professional growth and training opportunities
💡 How to Apply Public Utilities Specialist (Contracts) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Public Utilities Specialist (Contracts) Job
- Create or sign in to your Login.gov account via USAJOBS.
- Review the full vacancy announcement details carefully.
- Prepare a two-page resume that explicitly documents your relevant work history and experience.
- Complete the online questionnaire and attach all required documentation.
- Submit your application package before 11:59 PM EST on the closing date.
- Monitor your email for a unique URL to complete the required USA Hire assessments.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes exact dates (month/day/year) and salary information for each position held.
- Submit your application well before the deadline to avoid last-minute system congestion.
- Check your spam or junk folder for important email notifications regarding the assessment process.
- Review your application status frequently through your USAJOBS account dashboard.
- Take screenshots of any technical errors encountered during the submission process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute education for the specialized experience requirement?
Education substitution is permitted at the GS-11 level (Ph.D. or 3 years of graduate study), but it is not available for the GS-12 level.
Is this position eligible for remote work?
No, this position requires the incumbent to report to the official duty location in Vancouver, Washington.
What is the assessment process?
If qualified, you will be invited to complete a series of USA Hire competency-based assessments. You must complete these within 48 hours of receiving the link.
What is the deadline to apply?
The application closes on November 5, 2026.
Is relocation assistance provided?
Relocation assistance is not offered for this position.
Job from Bonneville Power Administration
The Bonneville Power Administration is a nonprofit federal power marketing agency based in the Pacific Northwest. Though part of the Department of Energy, BPA is self-funding, covering its costs through the sale of electrical power from 31 federal hydroelectric projects. Recognized as a top employer for veterans, BPA fosters a culture of excellence, work-life balance, and professional wellness.