1. Explain what the scope of the work/project is? Project Overview, deliverables (what is this person responsible for).
This role supports Large C&I Demand Response programs at Xcel Energy. These voluntary programs allow customers to temporarily reduce energy usage during peak grid stress events.
The Program Manager will:
Manage 2–3 demand response programs across multiple states (Xcel operates in eight states)
Oversee customer enrollments and account management enablement
Manage forecasting, budgeting, and program performance
Produce program reports and filings
Coordinate billing, waivers, complaints, and yearend closeout
Support enrollment planning and rule communication
2. What does a typical day look like?
Work varies seasonally and quarterly:
Q1: Program status reports, performance writeups, filings, planning, presentations to account managers and operations
Q2: Enrollment push, webinars, forecasting, pipeline management, summer readiness
Q3: Summer event season—program support, billing file setup, performance checks, customer issues
Q4: Program wrapup, billing finalization, yearend reports, planning for next cycleTranscript.docx&action=default&mobileredirect=true
6. Describe work environment / team culture (supportive/collaborative, teamwork or individual contributor)?
Highly collaborative
Crossfunctional interaction is constant
Strong emphasis on teamwork and cultural fit
Frequent communication and shared problemsolving
7. Can you elaborate on any potential risks or safety considerations associated with this role, particularly if the responsibilities extend beyond a standard desk or office environment?
Office Environment
9. What are the work hours/shift (standard, evening, full time/part time, OT required, on-call for 24/7 operation)?
40 hours per week
No overtime
Standard business hours
1. What are the top 3-5 skills and qualifications (technology/application/software, etc.) required?
Program management experience
Forecasting and budgeting
Stakeholder collaboration (account management, operations)
Strong Excel skills
Utility experience preferred but not required
2. What non-technical skills are necessary (i.e., such as communication, problem solving, team player)?
Strong communication
Detailoriented
Highly collaborative
Teamfocused mindset
Customer service
3. Ideal candidate background and how many years required?
7+ years of experience
Background in:
Utilities
Regulated industries (e.g., finance)
Demand response, rebate, or incentive programs
4. Are there any specific companies you like to see on a candidate's resume? N/a
5. Are there any certifications that the candidate must possess? N/a
6. Are there any preferred or "nice to have" skills?
MBA (nice to have)
Experience in regulated environments
Experience with rebate, incentive, or demand response programs
1. What is the location of the contract assignment (Full time onsite, hybrid – percent of time on site/home or, are you open to fully remote)? If the resource is expected to be onsite, can you confirm if the resource can park on Xcel property/in the ramp?
Minneapolis (401 Nicollet) or Denver (T3)
Hybrid
In office: Tuesday–Thursday
Remote: Monday & Friday
Responsible for the coordination and completion of projects, projects that are small to moderate in scope, risk, and/or organizational span, including subprojects of larger, more complex projects.
Manages multiple projects and orchestrates the results to achieve a broad program goal.
Plans and implements schedules and monitors program from inception through delivery ensuring all deadlines are met.
Defines and reports program status, development issues and success metrics.
Identifies and monitors areas of risk.
Continuously seeks opportunities to improve cost, performance and schedule.
Manages to budgets. Facilitates communication and coordination among projects.
Manages stakeholder engagement and satisfaction.
Maintains awareness of trends, business conditions and internal process and practices impacting component projects or overall program.
Adheres to standard project management methodologies and reporting techniques.
Proficiency in MS Office required.