Economist – Energy and Environmental Systems

Overview

At PNNL, our core capabilities are divided among major departments, known as Directorates, each focused on specific scientific and functional areas. The Energy and Environment Directorate includes the Electricity Infrastructure & Buildings Division, which is accelerating the transition to an efficient and resilient energy system. We are looking for an Economist III to serve as a technical contributor and task leader within a multidisciplinary team of engineers, economists, researchers, and analysts.

This position will support applied economic research that evaluates technology and market trends, assesses impacts on energy systems and consumers, and analyzes implications for infrastructure investment, competitiveness, and system performance. The research outcomes will inform strategies to strengthen U.S. energy infrastructure, enhance manufacturing competitiveness, and improve long‑term system resilience.

• Understand energy system economics, including market design, cost formation, and system impacts.
• Analyze energy market and economic data to assess technology trends, policy impacts, and consumer behavior.
• Evaluate market structures, cost drivers, barriers to deployment, regulatory considerations, and supply chain dynamics affecting energy system outcomes.
• Perform lifecycle cost analysis, cost‑benefit analysis, and technoeconomic analysis to evaluate energy technologies and programs.
• Apply econometric techniques and quantitative methods for program assessment and policy evaluation.
• Use economic and statistical tools to support energy investment, planning, and decision‑making.
• Communicate technical and economic findings clearly to policy makers, program managers, industry stakeholders, and technical audiences.

• Project Managers for performing assigned roles and ensuring tasks are completed on time and within budget.
• The Energy Policy, Economics & Planning Group Leader and Energy Economics Team Leader for general staff performance, development, operational discipline, and project execution.

• BS/BA and 5+ years of relevant work experience – OR – MS/MA and 3+ years of relevant work experience – OR – PhD with 1+ year of relevant experience.

• Graduate degree in economics (or closely related field); a doctorate is preferred.
• Demonstrated understanding of energy science, energy policy, or technology assessment.
• Expertise in lifecycle cost analysis, cost‑benefit analysis, and technoeconomic analysis.
• Proficient in econometric techniques and quantitative methods with capability in statistical tools (Python, R, or Stata).
• Quick familiarity with technologies and technical concepts to the depth required for project analysis.
• Experience publishing technical reports and journal papers.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• A collaborative approach to problem‑solving and ability to work well with interdisciplinary and geographically distributed teams.

On‑site in Richland, WA, Seattle, WA, or Portland, OR is strongly preferred. Remote work may be considered.

Requires U.S. citizenship or lawful residency for the preceding 3 continuous years.

PNNL is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and is committed to fostering a fair and respectful work environment. All applicants are considered without regard to race, religion, color, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local laws.

Minimum Salary: USD $ /yr.

Maximum Salary: USD $ /yr.