Associate Data Scientist - Load Forecasting

Are you looking for an exciting job where you can put your skills and talents to work at a company you can feel proud to be a part of? Do you want a workplace that will challenge you and offer you opportunities to learn and grow?  A  position at Xcel Energy could be just what you’re looking for.

Position Summary

Primarily responsible for building data pipelines supporting granular load forecasting models based on advanced metering data, a wide range of public and proprietary data sets, and industry research. The broader project will support planning processes across the electric and gas system through highly targeted forecasting of technology adoption and customer growth. This broad application of highly granular data will require careful coordination of diverse data inputs and model outputs across multiple teams, placing a crucial emphasis on clear communication and thorough documentation.

Core Responsibilities

• Work to integrate load forecasting process into DataBricks platform; follow consistent practices to ensure data integrity and deal with imperfections in data; champion the acquisition of new data sources to enhance value and fill gaps; coordinate with IT resources to automate collection processes; effectively process structured and semi-structured/unstructured data; proficiently integrate varied datasets; collaborate with business stakeholders as needed to ensure solid data understanding and proper data transformation; work cross-functionally with data science, development, and engineering teams.
• Build predictive models; propose solutions and strategies for business problems; apply the appropriate machine learning algorithm to data problems (e.g. supervised vs. unsupervised machine learning, clustering, ensemble methods, etc.); validate model results; work closely with architecture and engineering team to deploy models.
• Effectively develop relationships with individuals inside and outside of IT; address challenges to analytic processes and influence others to change their approach and work collectively to implement new tools/techniques; gain support from related stakeholders for analytic solutions and champion data driven business decisions.
• Apply appropriate statistical techniques to data exploration and model development/assessment; communicate complex statistical concepts to non-technical audiences; maintain skills through continuing education.
• Effectively collaborate with others to deliver efficient and high quality code; implement solid validation process to ensure consistency and minimize errors; champion more efficient ways to produce code iteratively; maintain skills through continuing education; stay up to date on new technologies/ tools; seamlessly transition between languages to apply the right approach to the problem.
• Create meaningful data visualizations to communicate results and highlight business impact; utilize various techniques and delivery methods of visualization that are audience appropriate.

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, data science, statistics, math or a related analytical concentration is required. Other bachelor’s degrees with data science relevant certifications will be considered.

Preferred:

• Expert SQL, Python skills
• Knowledge of data architecture and structure
• Experience with machine learning, statistical modeling, predictive modeling
• Experience with DataBricks or other cloud-based data platforms
• Distributed Computing experience

As a leading combination electricity and natural gas energy company, Xcel Energy offers a comprehensive portfolio of energy-related products and services to 3.4 million electricity and 1.9 million natural gas customers across eight Western and Midwestern states. At Xcel Energy, we strive to be the preferred and trusted provider of the energy our customers need. If you’re ready to be a part of something big, we invite you to join our team.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Individuals with a disability who need an accommodation to apply please contact us at recruiting@xcelenergy.com.

Non-Bargaining

The anticipated starting base pay for this position is: $82,800.00 to $117,600.00 per year

This position is eligible for the following benefits: Annual Incentive Program, Medical/Pharmacy Plan, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Dependent Care Reimbursement Account, Health Care Reimbursement Account, Health Savings Account (HSA) (if enrolled in eligible health plan), Limited-Purpose FSA (if enrolled in eligible health plan and HSA), Transportation Reimbursement Account, Short-term disability (STD), Long-term disability (LTD), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Fitness Center Reimbursement (if enrolled in eligible health plan), Tuition reimbursement, Transit programs, Employee recognition program, Pension, 401(k) plan, Paid time off (PTO), Holidays, Volunteer Paid Time Off (VPTO), Parental Leave

Benefit plans are subject to change and Xcel Energy has the right to end, suspend, or amend any of its plans, at any time, in whole or in part.

Deadline to Apply: 01/30/25

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ACCESSIBILITY STATEMENT
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