Principal/Transmission Strategy and Planning Expert (Energy practice)
About the role
We are seeking a Principal – Transmission Strategy and Planning to play a leadership role in delivering high-impact advisory services across transmission planning, interconnection, and grid strategy engagements.
Role and Responsibilities
- Lead transmission planning and strategy engagements, including regional and local transmission planning, interconnection strategy, and evaluation of transmission expansion opportunities
- Advise clients on planning processes and regulatory frameworks, including RTO/ISO planning (e.g., MISO, PJM, SPP), FERC policies, and state-level transmission initiatives
- Apply and interpret advanced power system and market models, including power flow, production cost, and capacity expansion tools, to inform planning and investment decisions
- Serve as a senior advisor in stakeholder processes, including regulatory proceedings, technical working groups, and investor diligence efforts
- Drive business development, including maintaining existing client relationships, identifying new opportunities, and shaping new service offerings in transmission and grid strategy
Desired Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Power Systems Engineering, Engineering Economics, or a related field; Master’s degree preferred
- 10+ years of experience in transmission planning, power system analysis, or electricity market modeling
- Deep familiarity with RTO/ISO transmission planning processes, interconnection procedures, and cost allocation frameworks
- Experience with power system and market modeling tools (e.g., PSS®E, PSLF, PROMOD, Aurora, or similar) and translating results into actionable insights
- 5+ years of leadership experience, including managing project teams and overseeing complex engagements
- Demonstrated experience engaging with regulators, utilities, developers, or large energy users on transmission-related issues
- Proven track record in business development and client relationship management
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present to executive audiences
- Strong problem-solving capabilities, with the ability to structure and lead analyses on ambiguous and evolving issues
- Commitment to mentorship, team development, and collaborative project execution
To Apply
To be considered for a position in the United States, we require the following:
- Resume – please include current address, personal email and telephone number;
- Cover letter – please describe your interest in CRA and how this role matches your goals.
Career Growth and Benefits
- CRA’s robust skills development programs, including a commitment to offering 100 hours of training annually through formal and informal programs, encourage you to thrive as an individual and team member.
- We offer a comprehensive total rewards program including a superior benefits package, wellness programming to support physical, mental, emotional and financial well-being, and in-house immigration support for foreign nationals and international business travelers.
Work Location Flexibility
CRA creates a work environment that enables our colleagues to benefit from being together in the office to best deliver on our promise of career growth, mentorship and inclusivity. At the same time, we recognize that individuals realize a range of benefits when working from home periodically. We currently expect that individuals spend at least 3 to 4 days a week working in the office (which may include traveling to another CRA office or to client meetings), with specific days determined in coordination with your practice or team.
Our Commitment to Equal Employment Opportunity
Charles River Associates is an equal opportunity employer (EOE). All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.
Salary and other compensation
A good-faith estimate of the annual base salary range for this position is $175,000 - $250,000. Stating pay within this range may vary based on factors such as education level, experience, skills, geographic location, market conditions, and other qualifications of the successful candidate. This position may be eligible for additional bonus incentive compensation.