Entry Level Ferc Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Job Specifications

Black Hills Energy is people powered and purpose driven. Our team uses the power of energy to improve life for over one million customers in 800+ communities across the West and Midwest. We seek talented, caring people who embody our core values and contribute to a culture of inclusion and growth. As an organization, we believe the best part of working on our team is our commitment to making tomorrow better than today—for our customers, communities and each other.

Position summary:

Responsible for the timely and accurate recording of accounting transactions in accordance with GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles) and FERC (Federal Energy Regulated Commission), analysis, and reporting of financial transactions related to transmission accounting and electric utility margin accounting, including interpreting and applying regulatory tariffs, mechanisms, Common Use System Transmission accounting and billing, 69KV transmission billing and accounting and other contracts. Responsible for accurate payments to suppliers and counterparties, appropriate allocation of power costs for electric generation units, and electric utility revenues. Responsibilities include completion of special projects supporting electric utility and transmission operations and regulatory departments including financial statement analyses, preparation of reports, and interpretation of accounting results. Accurately complete quarterly and annual FERC Forms for the Electric Utilities.

Pay Range: $66,950 - $100,500 (This posting includes the full pay range for this position. Pay is based on a number of factors and may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and internal equity.)

Reporting Relationship: Manager – Electric Margin Accounting

Location: Rapid City, SD

Relocation Assistance:  Relocation assistance is available based on individual circumstances! Details to be shared during the offer process.

Essential Functions:
•    Ensure timely, accurate and complete electric accounting within BHC providing monthly and quarterly financial reporting and appropriate variance analysis including but not limited to: Accounting for electric costs for electric utilities and electric generation units. Accounting for transmission and electric utility tariffs, regulatory mechanisms and other contracts Monthly reconciliations of electric margin accounts, including appropriate and timely follow up on discrepancies. Accurate and timely preparation of journal entries; ensure accurate and timely upload and posting of journal entries to the PeopleSoft system. Complete and review accounting analyses of electric margin accounts. Interpret and communicate results to applicable individuals.
•    Partner with teams in finance and accounting, transmission, and generation dispatch power marketing to provide timely support and ensure open and effective communication.
•    Develop familiarity and expertise associated with electric operations, regulatory requirements and appropriate electric accounting principles.
•    Ensure accurate and timely completion of monthly and quarterly reporting forms for Financial Reporting and regulatory reporting requirements.
•    Comply with and ensure accounting policies and practices are appropriately documented and support compliance with GAAP, FERC, and sound business practices.
•    Ensure appropriate controls are in place, documented and operating effectively to support strong Internal Controls over Financial Reporting in accordance with sound business practices and in compliance with Sarbanes-Oxley requirements.
•    Assist internal and external auditors with engagements involving electric utility margin accounts.
•    Obtain a strong understanding of the automated accounting systems for BHC electric utility activities including PowerOptix, PeopleSoft, and CIS+.
•    Perform assigned duties in a professional manner to facilitate the objectives and goals of the company and to enhance the image of the margin accounting function while working toward continuous improvement of processes.
•    Identify areas for increasing efficiency and effectiveness and implement changes while maintaining accurate financial information.
•    Maintain a current working knowledge of accounting rules and regulations and how those may impact operations, including GAAP, FERC, State Regulations, and Sarbanes-Oxley requirements.
•    Identify areas for increasing efficiency and effectiveness and implement and document those changes while maintaining accurate financial information.
•    Perform other duties as assigned.

What Is Required:
•    Bachelor's Degree In Accounting 
•    3 or more years of Accounting/financial experience 

What Is Desired:
•    Master's Degree MBA
•    Public accounting experience 
•    Certified Public Accountant (CPA) 
•    MPA 
•    Certified Management Accountant (CMA) 
•    A thorough knowledge of GAAP, including business and accounting methods and procedures.
•    Solid understanding of, and experience in accounting required.
•    A solid understanding of internal controls.
•    A working understanding of utility operations and a basic understanding of regulatory/ratemaking processes and methods preferred.
•    Essbase knowledge and experience preferred.
•    Advanced proficiency in Excel to create and support complex spreadsheets and financial models.
•    Proficiency in automated accounting systems.
•    Strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize delegate and complete multiple projects in a timely manner.
•    Ability to apply strong attention to detail while understanding and considering the big picture.
•    Ability to manage effectively in a fast paced environment with multiple priorities.
•    Ability to perform accounting duties of an above average difficulty.
•    Strong analytical skills.
•    Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
•    Ability to maintain strict confidentiality of business information.

This description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of responsibilities, duties, and requirements for employees in this position. Job descriptions may and do change periodically. Where positions are covered by a collective bargaining unit agreement, the terms and conditions of the agreement will apply.

About our Company: We are a customer, growth and safety focused utility company that is dedicated to our communities. We improve life with energy as an energy partner of choice. Our diverse culture fuels unique perspectives, opening doors to new insights and possibilities. Based in Rapid City, South Dakota, we have over 3000 employees and serve 1.3 million natural gas and electric utility customers across eight states (South Dakota, Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, and Arkansas).

Enjoy our Comprehensive Benefits Package!  Annual discretionary bonuses, 401(k) (6% company match and up to 9% company retirement contribution), tuition reimbursement, generous paid time off benefits, including paid holidays and parental leave, company paid life insurance and disability benefits (short and long term), critical illness, accident & group hospital insurance, pet insurance, an employee assistance program and well-being benefits, and competitive medical, dental and vision insurance.

Candidates must successfully pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check.  If there is anything that may show up in these reports that may conflict with the position requirements, feel free to contact the Black Hills Energy recruiting team at jobs@blackhillscorp.com. 

Black Hills Energy does not sponsor applicants for work visas. All applicants must be legally authorized to work in the US.

We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or status as a protected veteran.  If you require reasonable accommodation, please visit  careers.blackhillsenergy.com for more information.