Application Analyst

Description

At the American Public Power Association (APPA), we serve as the voice of not-for-profit, community-owned utilities that power 2,000 towns and cities nationwide. We represent public power before the federal government to protect the interests of the more than 54 million people that public power utilities serve, and the 96,000 people they employ. We advocate and advise on electricity policy, technology, trends, training, and operations. Help us continue to achieve our mission for our members and the communities they serve!

At APPA, we strive to hire the very best and are committed to creating exceptional employee experiences where everyone is respected and feels valued.

We have an exciting opportunity for an Application Analyst that manages and maintains the Grid Security, Technical and Operations Department’s Association-wide systems and software applications. The analyst also provides expertise and application support for the Association’s operations programs, including the Reliable Public Power Provider (RP3), Smart Energy Provider (SEP), Cyber Accelerator Program (CAP), Demonstration of Energy and Efficiency Developments Program (DEED), eReliability Tracker (eRT), eSafety Tracker (eST) programs, as well as online tools used to coordinate the public power mutual aid network. This person serves as the principal point of contact for information/guidance on applications, solicits and responds to member input, and assists members with Association database inquiries.  The analyst works closely with Association staff and members to identify requirements, troubleshoot issues, implement enhancements to existing applications that drive operational efficiency and user satisfaction, and develop new applications based on the needs of members and the Technical & Operations Team.

This is a hybrid position which requires the incumbent to reside in the Washington, DC metropolitan area and come into the office a minimum of two to three days each week (with Tuesdays being a mandatory day).  

• Manages application databases for six existing and future Technical & Operations Services programs. Regularly conducts comprehensive analysis of application performance, functionality, and user experience to identify areas for improvement.  
• Contributes to strategic planning for application lifecycle management and digital transformation initiatives. 
• Collaborates with cross-departmental teams to gather requirements and design solutions to implement changes to existing applications and develop new applications.
• Leads troubleshooting efforts and coordinates with vendors and IT staff as needed. 
• Serves as a first point of contact for APPA members and nonmembers and provides technical support and troubleshooting for application-related issues, ensuring timely resolution and minimal disruption to business operations. Provides support and training to members on how to effectively use the applications.
• Ensures the smooth operation and optimization of Association applications. Identifies and resolves application issues, often acting as a technical point of contact for immediate fixes. 
• Ensures the accuracy, safety, and availability of data within the applications. 
• Acts as a liaison between technical teams and non-technical stakeholders to facilitate effective communication and understanding of application capabilities.
• Monitors application performance and usage metrics to inform enhancements. Undertakes assignments, as needed, based on the direction of the department and APPA leadership.
• Assists the Manager of Research and Development, in conducting analyses and developing and implementing customized benchmarking and automated report generation tools.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field.
• Three-plus years of experience in applications analysis or a related role, with a proven track record of successful application management.
• Strong understanding of database management systems (e.g., SQL Server, Oracle, MySQL).
• Experience in troubleshooting and resolving application issues in a timely manner.
• Excellent verbal and analytical skills. 
• Excellent customer service skills.
• Ability to work independently, prioritize workload, and handle a variety of tasks simultaneously in a deadline-oriented environment.
• Ability to use Microsoft Office tools (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint) in the day-to-day essential duties of the job. 
• Ability to present ideas clearly, concisely and accurately, both orally and in writing.
• Effective technical project and research management skills.
• Familiarity with application monitoring tools and frameworks.
• Travels out of town up to 10% of the year to support APPA’s conferences, events, industry partners, and meetings.
• Prolonged periods of standing and extensive walking during conferences and meetings. 
• Must be able to lift up to 20 lbs. 
• Experience in energy sector/member utility and/or trade association preferred.

In addition to a highly competitive salary and bonus program, APPA offers a robust benefits package to include a comprehensive health and wellness package, 20 days of PTO accrued in the first year, 401(k) match and additional contributions, and more!

APPA is committed to fostering an environment of diversity, equity and inclusion. This commitment pertains to our internal policies and staff expectations but also extends out to the wider public power community. As part of our strategic plan, we aim to assist members in meeting workforce challenges—including attracting and retaining a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace culture—through offering educational programs, developing resources, and serving as a platform for the public power community to exchange ideas and best practices.