Compliance Specialist.

About the role

This Compliance Specialist role at the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) offers the opportunity to secure the reliability of the Pacific Northwest’s power supply by ensuring operations meet strict federal standards. As a career-ladder position, it is designed for growth and development, allowing you to build expertise in energy regulation and shape the future of BPA’s compliance programs.

Located in Portland, OR—a city known for its bike-friendly infrastructure, vibrant culture, and eco-friendly initiatives—this role places you in a dynamic environment with access to festivals, sports, and outdoor activities.

Responsibilities

• Solve complex regulatory puzzles by applying analytical skills to identify, evaluate, and resolve issues related to energy industry regulations.
• Shape critical compliance frameworks by analyzing and recommending improvements to programs and procedures that ensure adherence to federal and regional energy reliability standards.
• Advise on program implementation by serving as a trusted resource for managers and staff, providing guidance on compliance policies and procedures.
• Drive process improvement by conducting in-depth studies of work processes and operational procedures to enhance efficiency and compliance posture.
• Develop and implement compliance strategies and plans, setting priorities that directly impact agency operations.
• Coordinate with internal teams and external partners to align compliance efforts and communicate BPA’s approach.
• Conduct audits and prepare reports, analyzing data to verify compliance and presenting findings to key decision-makers.
• Build and maintain essential documentation, including policies and procedural guides foundational to compliance success.

Requirements

• You must be a United States Citizen.
• This employer participates in the e-Verify program.
• Males must abide by Selective Service registration requirements.
• You will be required to report in person to the official duty location in Portland, OR.
• This position requires a PUBLIC TRUST background investigation; a preliminary check must be completed before employment begins.

Qualifications

GS-09 Level:

• One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-07 level, including:
  • Assisting in the review of program documentation for compliance with rules, regulations, or procedures.
  • Gathering data to identify and recommend solutions for procedural problems or operational efficiency.
  • Preparing reports, summaries, or documents supporting program activities, meetings, or training.
• Alternatively, a Master’s degree or equivalent graduate degree (or 2 full years of progressively higher-level graduate education) in fields such as Business Administration, Public Administration, Management, Auditing, or Paralegal Studies.
• A combination of education and experience may also qualify.

GS-11 Level:

• One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-09 level, including:
  • Assisting in the analysis of programs using evaluative techniques to gather data, conduct studies, and prepare reports on findings.
  • Assisting in the development and documentation of program processes, procedures, and implementation plans for regulatory compliance.
• Alternatively, a Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree (or 3 full years of progressively higher-level graduate education) in relevant fields.

Education must be obtained from an accredited institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Foreign education must be reviewed by an approved organization.

Benefits

• Comprehensive federal employee benefits package, including health, retirement, and work-life balance programs.
• Access to BPA’s Be Well program, supporting career, community, financial, physical, and social wellness.
• Flexible work environments and policies designed to support commitments to community, home, and family.
• Hiring incentives may be available for highly qualified candidates based on budget availability.