PUBLIC SERVICE RATE CASE ANALYST II

Location: Little Rock, AR, US, 72201 Category: AR PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION Anticipated Starting Salary: $78,130 This senior-level position provides research, technical analysis, and direct advisory support to the Commissioners on matters pending before the Arkansas Public Service Commission. The position serves as a lead analyst on complex regulatory dockets and is responsible for identifying, evaluating, and tracking significant issues that must ultimately be decided by the Commissioners. The position analyzes rate cases, formula rate plans, transmission siting proceedings, renewable energy proposals, strategic utility investments, net-metering matters, tax issues, depreciation studies, and other proceedings affecting Arkansas utilities and ratepayers. As lead analyst, the position coordinates the review of assigned dockets, ensures significant legal, financial, policy, and technical issues are identified and researched, and works with the Commission's advisory team to develop recommendations and provide the Commissioners with the information necessary to make informed decisions. The position also monitors and analyzes proceedings before the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission that may affect Arkansas jurisdictional utilities, wholesale electricity markets, transmission costs, and ultimately Arkansas ratepayers. Because of the complexity, financial significance, and public impact of the matters reviewed, the position requires substantial regulatory knowledge, independent judgment, and the ability to synthesize extensive records into clear and timely analysis for the Commissioners.

Job Summary: The Public Service Rate Case Analyst II is a mid-level professional responsible for conducting in-depth financial, economic, and regulatory analysis of utility rate cases to ensure just and reasonable rates for Arkansas consumers.

Primary Responsibilities: Conduct detailed analysis of rate case applications, cost-of-service studies, and financial reports submitted by public utilities. Evaluate tariffs, revenue requirements, and rate designs to ensure compliance with Arkansas regulatory standards. Develop economic models and forecasting tools to assess the financial impact of proposed rate changes. Investigate utility operational expenses, capital investments, and revenue allocations to determine fairness in rate adjustments. Monitor industry trends, regulatory changes, and economic factors affecting utility services in Arkansas. Prepare technical reports, recommendations, and presentations on rate cases for senior analysts, commission staff, and policymakers. Draft expert testimony, regulatory filings, and official commission documents. Present findings and defend analyses during public hearings, commission proceedings, and stakeholder meetings. Assist in negotiating settlements with utility companies and consumer advocates on rate-related matters. Respond to inquiries from utilities, consumer groups, and government officials regarding rate cases and regulatory policies. Participate in industry meetings, training sessions, and professional development programs to stay informed on regulatory best practices.

Knowledge and Skills: Strong knowledge of financial analysis, cost-of-service studies, and economic modeling. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, database management, and statistical analysis tools. Ability to interpret utility rate structures, tariffs, regulatory filings, and revenue allocation methods. Understanding of public utility regulations, accounting principles, and economic forecasting. Advanced analytical and problem-solving abilities to assess complex regulatory and financial issues. Effective written and verbal communication skills to convey technical findings clearly.

Minimum Qualifications: At least five years of experience in rate analysis, financial analysis, economic forecasting, or a related field. Preferred qualifications include an advanced degree in accounting, financial analysis, economics, statistics, or other quantitative analysis/STEM discipline.