This full-time Utility Analyst position with the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission (PUC) supports the agency’s work on regional transmission organization (RTO) activities and docketed regulatory matters. The analyst evaluates transmission planning, wholesale electricity markets, and reliability initiatives, and reviews electric, natural gas, telecommunications, and siting filings to ensure utility services remain reliable and affordable.

Position Description:

The Utility Analyst reviews transmission planning, market operations, and reliability efforts within RTOs and prepares recommendations for PUC leadership. The analyst participates in RTO stakeholder processes, evaluates filings, and tracks regional and federal policy developments affecting South Dakota utilities and consumers. The majority of the job will be focused on this RTO-related work.

The position also includes researching, analyzing, and presenting findings on utility filings and siting dockets, including energy conversion facilities, renewable projects, transmission lines, and certain pipelines. The analyst requests information from utilities, evaluates data, and prepares written and oral recommendations, often working with a staff attorney, during Commission meetings and hearings. The role requires timely, accurate work and collaboration with other analysts, attorneys, and stakeholders.

Work is based in the State Capitol Building in Pierre, South Dakota, with considerable travel required for RTO meetings, public meetings, and site visits. This salaried position reports to the Public Utilities Manager. Work hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with occasional extended hours to travel, meet deadlines, or support Commission operations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Analyze utility regulatory filings and siting applications.
• Conduct research, issue discovery requests, and prepare memoranda, briefings, and staff recommendations.
• Evaluate cost, rate, and service issues and assist in developing staff positions.
• Participate in dockets, hearings, and Commission meetings.
• Communicate with internal staff, utilities, industry representatives, and the public.
• Support special projects as assigned.
• Participate in RTO committees and working groups, in-person and virtually.
• Monitor RTO transmission planning, market design, resource adequacy, and reliability efforts.
• Review RTO filings and studies for impacts on South Dakota customers.
• Prepare analyses and recommendations on RTO issues.
• Coordinate with utilities, regional entities, other states, and stakeholders to represent South Dakota’s interests.
• Track regional and federal policy developments and support state positions.
• Present findings in writing and verbally.

Additional Information:

This position is exempt from the Civil Service Act and eligible for Veterans’ Preference. The State of South Dakota offers competitive benefits, including medical insurance, paid leave, and retirement benefits through SDRS. The State of South Dakota is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Qualifications:

A bachelor’s degree in economics, mathematics, accounting, finance, business administration, public policy, engineering, or a related field is required. Experience with utility regulation, energy policy, economic analysis, or RTOs is preferred.

Skills and Abilities:

Strong writing, communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills; ability to interpret regulatory filings and manage multiple deadlines; proficiency with Microsoft Office 365; ability to lift up to 40 pounds; valid driver’s license; ability to travel.

To Apply:

Submit a letter of interest, resume, and three professional references to PUC@state.sd.us by 5 p.m. CDT, June 9, 2026.

For more information about the South Dakota PUC, visit puc.sd.gov.

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