Senior Data Scientist, DER & Policy Forecasting

Key Skills

Python Programming, SQL, Big Data Technology, Machine learning techniques, Data Analytics, R Programming, MLOps tools, SAS, Data Engineering, Statistical modeling, Probabilistic Graphical Models, Forecasting, Predictive Modeling, Prescriptive Analytics, Simulation software

Job Description

Senior Data Scientist, DER & Policy Forecasting

• Location: Waltham, Massachusetts; Hicksville, New York
• Organization: Data Analysis and Analytics
• Department: TO Economics and Load Forecasting

As part of National Grid’s continued commitment to safety, all new hires must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Anyone unable to be vaccinated, either because of a sincerely held religious belief or medical reason can request a reasonable accommodation.

About us

Every day we deliver safe and secure energy to homes, communities, and businesses. We are there when people need us the most. We connect people to the energy they need for the lives they live. The pace of change in society and our industry is accelerating and our expertise and track record puts us in an unparalleled position to shape the sustainable future of our industry.

To be successful we must anticipate the needs of our customers, reducing the cost of energy delivery today and pioneering the flexible energy systems of tomorrow. This requires us to deliver on our promises and always look for new opportunities to grow, both ourselves and our business.

National Grid is hiring a Senior Data Scientist for DER & Policy Forecasting. This position can be based out of Waltham, MA or Hicksville, NY office.

Job Purpose

The Analytics & Load Forecasting team produces electric and gas forecasts for National Grid. As a Senior Data Scientist, you will develope long-term forecasts for distributed resources (including solar PV, energy efficiency, demand response, EVs, storage, etc.), and create long-term outlooks for policy based decarbonization goals for our US service territory. You will support the electric and gas load forecasting teams in integrating DERs and decarbonization forecasts into the long-term forecasts. You will work with the distributed resource, DSM, strategy teams, and other internal and external stakeholders to ensure that DER and decarbonization policies and programs are properly modeled.

Key Accountabilities

•  Develop long-term forecasts for distributed resources (including solar PV, energy efficiency, demand response, EVs, storage, etc.), and create long-term outlooks for policy based decarbonization goals. Perform additional analysis relating to DERs, DSM, and decarbonization policies in the forecast as necessary. 
• Work with the electric and gas forecasting teams to ensure the electric and gas load forecasts properly account for distributed energy resources and new technologies and policies.
• The position of Senior Data Scientist requires the ability to work independently with minimal guidance and communicate to both internal and external stakeholders to present and defend results. The ability to speak to both technical and non-technical audiences to present projects is essential. 
• Update forecast processes and documentation to ensure they are efficient, reviewable, and reliable. 
• Provide expert testimony before regulators and defend the forecasts. Respond to data request from regulatory bodies for rate cases and other proceedings.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders (including supply, engineering, regulatory, strategy) regarding forecast methodology and analysis and ensure our deliverables meet their needs.
• Stay current in all policies, regulatory requirements, market trends, and industry standards regarding customer energy use and technologies and programs impacting that use, such as energy efficiency and demand response. 

Supervisory/Interpersonal- Experience Required

•  Effective communication skills including the ability to make persuasive presentations to small and large audience.
• Ability to operate and build relationships across all levels of the organization.

Qualifications

•  A Bachelor’s degree (Master’s or PhD preferred) in statistics, applied analytics, engineering or related quantitatively rigorous field.
• 5 or more years of relevant energy industry experience in a regulated setting with direct interaction with regulators preferred.
• Experience with policy or forecasting distributed resources (e.g. PV, EV, energy efficiency, demand response, electrification of heat, etc.) preferred.
• Demonstrated experience with econometric or statistical forecasting or modelling preferred. Experience in energy load forecasting preferred. 
• Good understanding of National Grid’s operations and the regulatory environment preferred.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills including the ability to testify before regulators and respond to regulatory data requests. Ability to explain complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders. 
• Expertise in statistical programming software such as R, SAS, Python preferred. 
• Advanced Excel skills required. 

More Information

This position has a career path which provides for advancement opportunities within and across bands as you develop and evolve in the position; gaining experience, expertise and acquiring and applying technical skills. Candidates will be assessed and provided offers against the minimum qualifications of this role and their individual experience.