This is not a timed exam. If you request a Reasonable Accommodation your account will be locked and you will not be able to proceed with the exam until the request is processed.

The information below will help you determine which classification(s) is(are) appropriate for you. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications as stated on this bulletin to compete in this examination.

Open and Open, Non-Promotional Examination(s):

• ENERGY COMMISSION SPECIALIST II (TECH EVALUATION AND DEVELOPMENT) - Open

For all Classifications, once you have participated in any of the following examinations, you may not recompete for 12 months:

Exam Code(s):

1679

For ENERGY COMMISSION SPECIALIST II (TECH EVALUATION AND DEVELOPMENT), once you have participated in any of the following examinations, you may not recompete for 12 months:

Exam Code(s):

• EX-01679

Submit an Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) to apply for this examination.

Electronic applications can be submitted through your account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov.

If you require assistance or alternative testing arrangements due to a disability, indicate on your application that you need reasonable accommodation. You will be contacted by a representative of the testing department to make the necessary arrangements. If you have not been contacted by the time you receive notification of testing, please contact the testing department listed in the Contact section of this bulletin.

If you are unable to submit your application or complete the test due to a disability, please contact the testing department listed in the Contact section of this bulletin.

All applicants must meet the education and/or experience requirements as stated on this exam bulletin to be accepted to the examination.

Unless otherwise stated in the Minimum Qualifications, qualifying experience may be combined on a proportionate basis if the requirements stated below include more than one pattern and are distinguished as "Either" 1, "or" 2, "or" 3, etc. For example, applicants possessing qualifying experience amounting to 50% of the required time of Pattern 1 and additional experience amounting to 50% of the required time of Pattern 2 may be accepted to an examination as meeting 100% of the overall experience requirement.

This examination consists of the following component(s):

A final score of 70% must be attained to be placed on the eligible list.

In addition to evaluating the applicant's relative knowledge, skill and ability as demonstrated by quality and breadth of education/experience, emphasis in each test component will be on measuring competitively, relative to job demands, each applicant's:

Knowledge of:

1. A wide range of energy technologies and associated deployment and use issues.
2. Energy supply and demand forecasts and analytic methodologies, energy policy issues affecting or resulting from energy technology development, and energy project management techniques
3. California Public Resource Code pertaining to energy resources conservation and development.
4. Principles of physical sciences and engineering involved in energy resource development, conversion, distribution, and conservation.
5. Principles of econometric and end-use energy demand forecasting.
6. Energy sources and use within the California economy.
7. Principles of engineering economics, financial analysis, and economic theory as it pertains to energy supply and demand.
8. Energy technology costs and cost-accounting methods.
9. Recent research and development projects related to the use of petroleum, natural gas, biomass and other synthetic fuels.
10. Energy technology environmental impacts, including emissions, waste streams, volumes and characteristics.
11. Energy technology public health impacts, air quality impacts and risk analysis.
12. General provisions of social and economic implications of geothermal, solar, wind and other renewable energy development, technology and fuel demonstrations, resource planning and facility construction.
13. Recent research and development projects in electrical, nuclear, geothermal, and other energy sources and their related fuels and technologies.
14. Federal and State energy policy.
15. Decision theory, probabilistic risk assessment, and techniques of comparative evaluation, and Federal, State and local government, utilities and private agencies in energy research and regulation.
16. A variety of analytical and research techniques to resolve complex and policy sensitive issues and technical problems.
17. Significant trends and issues reported in the energy literature.
18. Theory and practice of utility planning and regulation, in general, and as implemented in California.
19. Energy efficiency, conservation, planning, forecasting and research methods including problem definition, data acquisition, and analytical techniques.
20. Other Federal, State and local energy related environmental goals, policies and organizations.

Ability to:

1. Reason logically and creatively, evaluate and apply a variety of analytical and research methods for the purpose of systematic, critical, and thorough analysis of energy problems or prospective issues leading to formulation, testing, or revision of State and/or Federal energy policies.
2. Utilize available computer systems for data base and/or computational applications.
3. Manage contracts.
4. Analyze energy data and present ideas and information effectively both orally and in writing.
5. Communicate in both written and oral formats.
6. Prepare and give testimony in planning and regulatory proceedings.
7. Develop and use complex computer programs and analytic models.
8. Develop and evaluate fuel alternatives.
9. Gain and maintain the confidence and cooperation of those contacted during the course of work.
10. Evaluate and quantify the effect of research, development and demonstration programs on energy systems.
11. Analyze situations accurately and take effective actions, and act independently within the guidelines set forth by the Commission.
12. Present ideas and analysis cogently and effectively.
13. Consult with and advise other staff management, Commissioners, or others on the relative merits of specific energy technologies and the impact of various energy policies.
14. Coordinate the complex technical work of others, act as a team or conference leader to analyze the more technical and complex situations accurately and take effective action.
15. Establish and maintain project priorities.
16. Testify as subject matter expert (geothermal solar, wind and other renewable energy development, technology and fuel demonstrations, recent research and development projects in electrical, nuclear, geothermal, and other energy sources and their related fuels and technologies) before the Commission and other groups.
17. Serve as the Commission's top adviser in such areas.
18. Effectively employ computer techniques for problems solving.
19. Consult with and advise Office Managers, Division Administrators, Commissioners and other interested members of State energy community on a wide variety of energy forecasting, modeling and fuel-related issues and topics.

A Departmental Open eligible list for the ENERGY COMMISSION SPECIALIST II (TECH EVALUATION AND DEVELOPMENT) Classification will be established for:

• California Energy Commission

The names of successful competitors will be merged onto the eligible list(s) in order of final score regardless of test date. Eligibility expires 12 months after it is established. Applicants must then retake the examination to reestablish eligibility.

Veterans' Preference will be granted for this examination. Veterans' Preference is an assistance program for veterans, veteran widows and widowers, and spouses of 100% disabled veterans who seek employment with the state. Veterans' Preference is also extended to currently serving military members nearing their retirement or separation date.

You are not eligible for Veteran's Preference if you are:

• A veteran who has been dishonorably discharged or released.
• A veteran, widow or widower of a veteran, or spouse of a 100 percent disabled veteran who currently has permanent civil service status. (Permanent civil service status is the status of an employee who is lawfully retained in his/her position after completion of the applicable probationary period. This does not include limited term).

Veterans' Preference is codified in Government Code Sections 18973 – 18979.

Veteran status is verified by the California Department of Human Resources (CalHR). Directions to apply for Veterans' Preference are on the Veterans' Preference Application (Std. Form 1093), which is available at www.CalCareers.ca.gov, and the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Career Credits are not granted for examination(s) administered on an Open basis or a Promotional basis.

Instructions

Rate your experience performing specific job-related tasks.

Read each item carefully and select the option that best corresponds with your response.

Tasks

1. Collecting information to respond to energy inquiries and research questions.
2. Collect information from a variety of governmental and other sources to determine the environmental impacts of energy projects.
3. Identify problems and recommend solutions related to environmental implications of project or energy development.
4. Determine the feasibility and reasonableness of measures to mitigate significant adverse impacts to the environment from an energy development project.
5. Identifying, conceptualizing and implementing research strategies based on current energy industry trends to address questions and advance understanding of departmental/organizational programs.
6. Proposing, designing and conducting research studies using quantitative research methodologies and techniques.
7. Interpreting quantitative statistical tests and analyzing qualitative data to answer questions relevant to program projects.
8. Creating various technical/scientific research reports (e.g., data reports, project conclusions) to present data and/or information to staff, clients, and/or various audiences.
9. Interpreting technical materials (such as policies, procedures, law, contracts, etc.) to apply information to program/project activities.
10. Providing status and progress reports of current work assignments to management, staff, and internal and external stakeholders.
11. Ability to work on multiple tasks and/or assignments.
12. Formulate solutions to issues related to work assignments for discussion and/or review with supervisor to determine the best course of action.
13. Identify feasible alternatives that would avoid or lessen environmental impacts of a proposed project.
14. Complete assignments independently with only general direction or minimal supervision.
15. Read and comprehend internal documents related to office or other agency policies and programs to ensure compliance.
16. Independently prepare assessments of complex and controversial noncompliance issues and recommend corrective action to management (e.g., mitigation, penalty).
17. Determine data needs (examples include electric power generation, natural gas and electricity demand, petroleum and alternative transportation fuel demand, conventional and alternative vehicle demand, and/or energy-related pricing) and retrieve data from established databases to respond to inquiries.
18. Review and approve studies and reports on complex and controversial energy issues (e.g., the availability, utilization and pricing of energy resources, implications of natural gas prices, electricity and fuel infrastructure analysis, energy use patterns, opportunities to promote energy efficiency and alternative energy sources, benefits and costs of proposed policies, environmental impact, etc.).
19. Participate in and contribute to the effectiveness of a group or team to ensure cooperation.
20. Work cooperatively and productively as a member of a team to achieve a common goal.
21. As a team leader, provide direction to subordinate staff to assure their understanding of the unit’s work procedures, work assignments and project tasks.
22. Coordinating and overseeing the work of a team in planning, organizing, and conducting studies/projects to produce reports for various entities (e.g., Department, Legislature, Management, other stakeholders).
23. Work effectively as part of a group or team unit to complete work tasks and assignments collaboratively, utilizing contributions of all individuals.
24. Facilitate meetings by clearly stating the objective of the meeting, generating brainstorming sessions, providing an agenda to meeting members, and directing discussions to ensure all members stay on task.
25. Negotiate and build consensus to achieve mutually acceptable outcomes by identifying common interests, clarifying differences, and achieving consensus or compromise.
26. Use a personal computer to input data, access information, and/or create materials and documents using a variety of software applications.
27. Use electronic mail software applications to communicate with various audiences.
28. Use database software applications to input, organize, track, and retrieve data.
29. Use software applications to conduct data collection and research.
30. Use of word processing software to prepare reports, memos, correspondence, and other job-related documents and materials.
31. Import data into various software programs (e.g., Excel, Access, Statistical Analysis System [SAS], SPSS) to prepare data for analysis.
32. Use software (such as Excel) to compile, compute and organize, data and statistics for use in reports and other tracking activities.
33. Resolving complex and/or sensitive problems or issues affecting the delivery of products or services to the customer.
34. Working with customers to identify their expectations and defining business objectives.
35. Planning one’s own workload and the workload of others, prioritizing key tasks, and ensuring the appropriate allocation of time and effort to achieve the required results.
36. Encouraging others to take a fresh look at problem areas by analyzing the viability and practicality of suggested innovations.
37. Working with others to identify inefficiencies, generate new ideas and recommendations, and develop innovative approaches to simplify complex processes. 
38. Consulting available resources (e.g., literature search, past practices, best practices, policies, procedures) to gather relevant information before making a decision.
39. Utilizing research (e.g., facts, past experiences, historical information, input from others) and sound reasoning to distinguish between relevant and irrelevant information before reaching conclusions.
40. Seeking relevant information from staff, colleagues, and managers to broaden personal understanding of the stakeholders who impact or are impacted by the organization and its programs and/or policies.
41. Monitoring the progress of projects, and intervening at an early stage to ensure deliverables meet agreed-upon commitments and making adjustments as needed.
42. Maintain and support a controversial position when supported by evidence.
43. Exercise sound judgment when making decisions to ensure that decisions are based upon the facts and information available, and that they are in accordance with laws, regulations, and/or divisional goals and objectives.
44. Establish project priorities by clearly defining project objectives.
45. Knowledge of time management techniques to provide for efficient prioritization and completion of projects and assignments.
46. Researching and analyzing records to provide information to internal and external customers using energy systems.
47. Knowledge of scientific research principles and methods to ensure the integrity and validity of collected data.
48. Knowledge of the principles of biology, physics, economics, mathematics, statistics, environmental studies, chemistry, business administration, public policy, physical science, engineering, energy science, and/or computer science.
49. Review and interpret scientific and technical reports to make recommendations based upon documented data and information.
50. Analyzing the impact of proposed legislation, budget changes, and deficiencies to make recommendations to management.
51. Analyze and evaluate information to formulate conclusions and courses of action.
52. Determine if a development or energy project is in compliance with existing laws, ordinances, regulations, and standards.
53. Assimilate a variety of information from multiple sources into a concise whole for effective analysis and response.
54. Interpret and explain energy data and procedures to a variety of audiences to ensure project compliance with policies and procedures, industry standards, and regulatory requirements.
55. Knowledge of data analysis methods sufficient to draw appropriate conclusions and make recommendations regarding a set of data. 
56. Analyze and evaluate problems and issues related to the planning and completion of energy projects, including research, data collection, compilation, presentation, and documentation to determine impact and to formulate potential resolution.
57. Organize data collected during research into a logical, ordered fashion for inclusion in a variety of final products, including reports, correspondence, charts, graphs, and presentations, ensuring the completeness and accuracy of the data and information presented.
58. Basic knowledge of at least one energy technology (e.g., renewable energy, advanced efficiency, advanced combustion, transportation fuels) sufficient to provide information to the public in response to technical questions.
59. Identify when an issue needs to be brought to upper management or legal staff in order to ensure issue is handled by persons with the proper authority.
60. Experience in designing charts and graphs for use in documenting, explaining and presenting plans and details regarding a variety of technical projects.
61. Interpret the results of analysis for consistency with trends and input data.
62. Experience maintaining the confidentiality of sensitive data, documents and reports (some examples include billing files, petroleum industry data, and power plant data).
63. Apply policies, procedures, and guidelines when making judgments and decisions to ensure the quality and integrity of the work performed.
64. Identify emerging trends and issues that may require Energy Commission analysis and/or policy decisions.
65. Maintain an accurate, up-to-date knowledge of policies, procedures, guidelines, industry practices, and regulatory requirements.
66. Applying statistical and/or mathematical methods to analyze data.
67. Deliver oral presentations to audiences of varying levels of understanding to convey information.
68. Preparing memos, letters, and correspondence documents to effectively communicate information.
69. Read and comprehend written materials to apply information and determine appropriate courses of action.
70. Perform job tasks during stressful working conditions (e.g., tight deadlines, heavy workload).
71. Listen to others to facilitate an open exchange of ideas and provide for effective communication.
72. Facilitate meetings (such as with staff, public, and other agencies) to ensure all participants are able to share opinions and information.
73. Translate complex technical material (such as work procedures, policies, industry practices, legislative or regulatory requirements) into common, everyday language for a variety of audiences.
74. Developing and conducting presentations on a variety of energy topics to stakeholders to convey ideas to individuals with varying degrees of technical expertise.  
75. Function as a technical resource in the area of energy analysis, providing expertise and/or guidance related to data collection, interpretation, compilation, reporting and documentation, policies and procedures, and project specifications to other commission staff, other agency and jurisdiction staff, contractors, and members of the public.
76. Understand and follow brief written instructions and directions for completion of assigned work tasks.
77. Establish and maintain collaborative working relations with superiors, peers, support staff, staff from outside agencies, and the public, as necessary.
78. Interact diplomatically and effectively with frustrated, difficult, angry, or emotional individuals in response to inquiries into commission policies, procedures, or practices and/or regulatory requirements pertaining to various facets of energy projects and activities.
79. Review and edit written materials for completeness, accuracy, and appropriateness to ensure that prepared materials conform to standards and accurately, clearly, and concisely document the information presented.
80. Prepare draft reports and documents relating to the compilation and presentation of energy data and for use by and/or distribution to a variety of audiences, including commission management and staff, other agency personnel, contractors, regulatory bodies, and the general public.
81. Knowledge of syntax and spoken language rules for the English language to formulate proper sentences, speak in a correct and understandable manner to a variety of audiences, and understand the verbal communication of others speaking English.
82. Attend workshops, hearings, and conferences concerning new technology, programs and opportunities associated with energy to gather information pertinent to project or program.
83. Maintain a professional demeanor at public and professional meetings (e.g., workshops, hearings, conferences, etc.).
84. Write manuals, guidelines, and procedures to provide guidance to participating parties.
85. Clearly and concisely explain, in writing, the contents of technical materials (e.g., energy related reports and regulations) to audiences with varying levels of expertise.
86. Write clear and concise memos, letters and correspondence, reports, and documents using proper grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure.
87. Read and comprehend a variety of technical, complex information in English related to work assignments (such as regulations, energy forecast reports, divisional manuals, contract documents, scientific articles, etc.) in order to interpret, explain, and apply the information.
88. Develop trust and credibility with customers/stakeholders. 
89. Resolve interpersonal conflicts when necessary.
90. Build consensus through negotiations sufficient to resolve a variety of issues.
91. Mediate differences of opinion or interest between various groups by ensuring all concerned parties are heard and employing conflict resolution strategies to come to a collaborative agreement for various issues.

• California Energy Commission

Technical questions regarding this examination should be directed to

Administrative questions regarding this examination should be directed to:

California Relay Service: 1-800-735-2929 (TTY), 1-800-735-2922 (Voice). TTY is a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf, and is reachable only from phones equipped with a TTY Device.

Examination and/or Employment Application (STD 678) forms are available at the California Department of Human Resources, local offices of the Employment Development Department, and through your CalCareer Account (www.CalCareers.ca.gov).

If you meet the requirements stated on this examination bulletin, you may take this examination, which is competitive. Possession of the entrance requirements does not assure a place on the eligible list. Your performance in the examination described in this bulletin will be rated against a predetermined job-related rating, and all applicants who pass will be ranked according to their scores.

California Energy Commission reserves the right to revise the examination plan to better meet the needs of the service, if the circumstances under which this examination was planned change. Such revision will be in accordance with civil service laws and rules and all applicants will be notified.

General Qualifications: Applicants must possess essential personal qualifications including integrity, initiative, dependability, good judgment, the ability to work cooperatively with others, and a state of health consistent with the ability to perform the assigned duties of the class. A medical examination may be required. In open examinations, investigation may be made of employment records and personal history and fingerprinting may be required.

Eligible Lists: Eligible lists established by competitive examination, regardless of date, must be used in the following order: 1) sub-divisional promotional, 2) departmental promotional, 3) multi-departmental promotional, 4) service-wide promotional, 5) departmental open, 6) open. When there are two lists of the same kind, the older must be used first. Eligible lists will expire in one to four years unless otherwise stated on the bulletin.

High School Equivalence: Equivalence to completion of the 12th grade may be demonstrated in any one of the following ways: 1) passing the General Education Development (GED) Test; 2) completion of 12 semester units of college-level work; 3) certification from the State Department of Education, a local school board, or high school authorities that the competitor is considered to have education equivalent to graduation from high school; or 4) for clerical and accounting classes, substitution of business college work in place of high school on a year-for-year basis.

Accepted applicants must provide proof of identification at each in-person test session. Acceptable identification consists of a photo identification card or two forms of signed identification.