Analyst (contract)

Xcel Energy; Denver (CO); On-site; USD 58,000 - 78,000; Full time

Job summary

Xcel Energy is seeking an analytical energy professional to lead capacity expansion and production cost modeling, guiding the planning of new capacity and energy resources under current regulatory frameworks. The role centers on using EnCompass to model capacity expansion portfolios, evaluate resource options, and manage large data sets for reliable planning.

The position supports broader generation resource planning projects, including model setup and validation, with a focus on cost-effective

Qualifications

• Experience with EnCompass modeling for capacity expansion and production cost analysis.
• Strong analytical and quantitative skills to interpret energy market data.
• Experience handling large data sets with high accuracy.
• Solid understanding of electric utility resource planning principles and regulatory frameworks.
• Knowledge of generation resource acquisition processes including competitive solicitations and RFPs.
• Familiarity with energy transition policies and just transition planning.
• Excellent problem-solving skills with attention to detail in model setup and validation.
• Strong written and verbal communication for presenting findings.
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a deadline-driven environment.

Responsibilities

• Develop comprehensive capacity expansion plans to obtain or add new energy resources.
• Perform production cost modeling to evaluate and compare capacity expansion portfolios.
• Model capacity expansion scenarios using bids from the 2026 Just Transition Solicitation.
• Support generation resource planning modeling beyond the RFP process.
• Set up, configure, and test models to ensure accuracy.
• Manage intake, validation, and organization of large data sets.
• Ensure planning processes comply with resource planning and acquisition rules.
• Evaluate purchased power options as part of IRP.
• Communicate results and recommendations to cross-functional teams.
• Document methodologies, assumptions, and findings for auditable planning.

Skills

EnCompass

Analytics

Data management

Regulatory knowledge

RFPs

Energy policy

Problem solving

Communication

Project management

Data tools

Education

Electrical Engineering / Economics / Mathematics

Advanced degree preferred

Tools

EnCompass

Job description

Job Summary

We are seeking a highly analytical and detail-oriented energy professional to lead capacity expansion and production cost modeling efforts aimed at developing comprehensive plans for obtaining or adding new capacity and energy resources in the most cost-effective manner. This role operates within established resource planning and acquisition rules that govern system expansion and the addition of new generation and/or purchased power resources. The position plays a critical role in modeling various capacity expansion portfolios using generation bids from the 2026 Just Transition Solicitation, while also supporting a broader range of generation resource planning modeling projects beyond the RFP process, including model setup, testing, and the intake and management of large data sets.

We are seeking a highly analytical and detail-oriented energy professional to lead capacity expansion and production cost modeling efforts aimed at developing comprehensive plans for obtaining or adding new capacity and energy resources in the most cost-effective manner. This role operates within established resource planning and acquisition rules that govern system expansion and the addition of new generation and/or purchased power resources. The position plays a critical role in modeling various capacity expansion portfolios using generation bids from the 2026 Just Transition Solicitation, while also supporting a broader range of generation resource planning modeling projects beyond the RFP process, including model setup, testing, and the intake and management of large data sets.

Responsibilities

• Develop comprehensive capacity expansion plans to obtain or add new energy resources, including new generation plants, in the most cost-effective manner
• Perform production cost modeling to evaluate and compare capacity expansion portfolios
• Model various capacity expansion scenarios using generation bids submitted in the 2026 Just Transition Solicitation
• Support additional generation resource planning modeling projects beyond the RFP process
• Perform model setup, configuration, and rigorous testing to ensure accuracy and reliability
• Manage the intake, validation, and organization of large and complex data sets
• Ensure all planning processes and plans comply with resource planning and acquisition rules governing system expansion and new generation additions
• Evaluate purchased power resource options as part of integrated resource planning efforts
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to communicate modeling results and planning recommendations
• Document methodologies, assumptions, and findings to support transparent and auditable planning processes

Skills

• Proficiency in EnCompass capacity expansion and production cost modeling software
• Strong analytical and quantitative skills with the ability to interpret complex energy market data
• Experience managing and processing large data sets with high accuracy
• Solid understanding of electric utility resource planning principles and regulatory frameworks
• Knowledge of generation resource acquisition processes, including competitive solicitations and RFPs
• Familiarity with energy transition policies and just transition planning frameworks
• Excellent problem-solving skills with attention to detail in model setup and validation
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for presenting technical findings to diverse audiences
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a deadline-driven environment
• Proficiency in data management tools and spreadsheet applications

Experience

• Minimum of 3 years of experience with EnCompass modeling for capacity expansion and production cost analysis
• Experience in electric utility resource planning, generation planning, or energy consulting
• Demonstrated experience working with generation bids and competitive procurement processes
• Experience with large-scale data intake, validation, and management in an energy planning context

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Economics, Mathematics, or a related quantitative field
• Advanced degree in Energy Systems, Engineering, or a related discipline preferred

This is a rare opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of energy resource planning during a transformative period for the industry. By working at the intersection of cutting-edge modeling technology and forward-thinking energy policy, you will directly influence how new generation capacity is planned and acquired, contributing meaningfully to a cleaner, more resilient, and cost-effective energy future for communities and stakeholders alike.

The closing date for applications for this job posting is 11/29/2026.

Should you require any accommodations in responding to this job posting or at any stage during the application process, kindly e-mail : [e-mail]

Pay Rate Range

42.41 - 56.55 USD hourly