Research Associate/Associate
Synapse is seeking an ambitious researcher with exceptional quantitative and writing skills. The ideal candidate is eager to learn about Synapse’s wide range of expertise and has a strong interest in analyzing large data sets to uncover key insights about the electric industry. Candidates with a demonstrated commitment to public interest issues, such as sustainability, environmental justice, and consumer protection, are preferred.
The Research Associate or Associate will provide technical analyses to support Synapse project work, on a wide range of topics. Topics may include energy efficiency, renewable energy technologies, resource planning, electricity rates, electric vehicles, environmental regulations, and electricity markets. This person will also play a key role in Synapse projects related to modeling job and economic development impacts of energy sector investments.
- Perform analytical and research tasks under the supervision of project manager or other team members.
- Research and analyze energy efficiency programs and strategies, as well as energy technology costs, savings, and market penetrations.
- Perform economic analysis, including cost-benefit analysis and job impact analyses, of energy resources.
- Maintain, use, and modify spreadsheet-based tools to analyze energy efficiency technologies, programs, and portfolios.
- Perform economic analysis, including cost-benefit analysis, of energy resources.
- Assist with the organization of discovery responses, technical citations, and writing executive summaries.
- Perform electric sector modeling tasks using various software and in-house models, including utility planning software and job and economic development impacts models.
Technical Skills:
- Ability to develop and implement research strategies to support project and client needs.
- Excellent math and computer skills, including attention to detail related to unit conversions, discount rates, nominal and real dollars, and other economic principles.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to synthesize and summarize research and analysis.
- Ability to work and communicate well with project managers and team members.
- Ability to manage complex tasks with competing priorities and time requirements.
- Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Engineering, Economics, Environmental Studies, Physics, or other related field.
- At least 1 year of relevant work experience (see Technical Skills).
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
- Proficiency with programming languages like MATLAB, Python, and R is valued but not required.
- Optional but not required: Experience with PLEXOS, EnCompass, Strategist, System Optimizer, PROMOD, ReEDs, or IMPLAN.
To apply, please upload your resume and answer the questions at the form found on our website: https://www.synapse-energy.com/.
Synapse Energy Economics is a research and consulting firm specializing in economic and policy research, modeling, and analysis to provide electric sector solutions. Our work supports a broad range of public interest clients, including consumer advocates, environmental organizations, regulatory commissions, and state and federal agencies. Synapse produces expert reports and analysis for these clients and represents their technical interests in state and federal dockets and legal proceedings. Synapse places great value on our staff - we are a high-energy, forward‐thinking, collaborative group with a real passion for the public interest and sustainability.