Program Specialist, Demand Response in Portland, Oregon - #71064 | VanderHouwen

Description

Job Id: 71064

Program Specialist, Demand Response
Our client is seeking a Program Specialist, Demand Response to support the operations, planning, and delivery of key demand response (DR) initiatives within the non-residential customer segment. This role will play an essential part in managing program enrollment, tracking enablement activities, coordinating with vendors, and supporting ongoing improvements that strengthen program performance and customer participation. The ideal candidate brings hands-on DR program operations experience along with strong analytical, project management, and communication skills.

This role is a hybrid model in Portland, Oregon.

Program Specialist, Demand Response Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day operations of assigned DR programs, including enrollment management, enablement tracking, performance monitoring, and vendor coordination.
• Develop a strong understanding of internal systems (e.g., DR management platforms, customer data tools, and program tracking systems) to support accurate reporting, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement.
• Analyze program data to evaluate performance, identify trends, and recommend improvements that enhance customer experience and program effectiveness.
• Support seasonal DR planning and execution, ensuring operational readiness and timely issue resolution during DR events.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to align program operations with strategic objectives, regulatory expectations, and customer needs.
• Monitor and support vendor performance, ensuring adherence to scope, timelines, and quality standards.
• Assist with program strategy and roadmap development, identifying innovative opportunities to expand participation and improve cost efficiency.
• Cultivate productive relationships with internal partners, external implementers, and key stakeholders to enable smooth program delivery.
• Provide customer and stakeholder support related to program participation, requirements, and available tools.

Program Specialist, Demand Response Qualifications

• 5–7 years of experience in demand response, distributed energy resources, energy efficiency, or program/project management within or in partnership with a utility.
• Proven demand response program operations experience, including enrollment workflows, enablement tracking, and vendor coordination.
• Strong analytical capabilities, with the ability to interpret program and customer data sets and generate actionable insights.
• Effective program and project management skills, including stakeholder coordination and clear communication.
• Experience with utility systems such as DER management platforms or customer/AMI data tools.
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience, with 8+ years in relevant DR or energy program fields accepted in lieu of degree.
• CAPM certification or similar project management credential (preferred).

Preferred:

• Experience with smart thermostat or water heater DR programs.
• Familiarity with DERMS platforms.
• Knowledge of the Pacific Northwest energy landscape or similar regulated utility environments.

Compensation: (DOE)

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As an eligible contract employee with VanderHouwen, you’ll have access to a full suite of benefits designed with your well-being in mind. Our comprehensive package includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short- and long-term disability, and a matching 401(k) to help secure your future.

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