Geothermal Development Specialist

This role supports the continued development and expansion of the City's direct-use geothermal utility by advancing geothermal integration with new development and implementing strategies that strengthen long-term system growth. This position leads efforts to evaluate financial and operational feasibility, develop tools and guidance for developers and building owners, coordinate stakeholder engagement, support infrastructure and policy planning, and create communications, educational resources, and public-facing tools that help developers understand and integrate geothermal heating systems into building projects. This position promotes equitable, cost-effective, and sustainable geothermal adoption across Boise and works under limited supervision.

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, energy systems, construction management, urban planning, public administration, business, or closely related field, and four years of experience in project coordination, infrastructure planning, utilities, energy systems, or related program management work, or an equivalent combination of education and/or experience.

• Valid state-issued driver's license.

• City of Boise background check processes which includes a criminal history check and reference checks in accordance with the City of Boise Hiring Process Regulation
• Driving Record Check

Why the City of Boise?

The benefits are real and among the best in the Treasure Valley:

Handles complex issues and problems and refers only the most complex issues to higher-level staff. Is capable of handling moderately complex issues and problems, and provides leadership, coaching, and/or mentoring to a subordinate group, as needed. 

Leads efforts to expand the geothermal utility, including developing and implementing strategies to attract new and existing customers and integrate geothermal into new development. 

Engages stakeholders to identify barriers to geothermal adoption and leads development of policies, strategies, and solutions to improve accessibility and scalability. Develops and delivers materials, presentations, and engagement activities to educate stakeholders and the public. Translates technical concepts into accessible information and aligns messaging with community engagement efforts.

Recommends prioritization and sequencing for system expansion, evaluates opportunities for new and existing buildings, and refines the geothermal roadmap using technical, market, and community inputs. 

Coordinates cross-functional inputs to support rate structures, billing approaches, cost assumptions, and long-term financial sustainability. Prepares materials outlining financial and operational tradeoffs. 

Maintains program documentation, tracks progress and risks, conducts basic data analysis, and prepares briefings and reports on system performance, growth, and initiatives for leadership. 

Performs other duties as assigned. Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this position at any time.

Additional Required Knowledge, Experience, And Training
Knowledge of:; geothermal or district energy systems, including an understanding of direct-use geothermal operations, building integration considerations, and scalability constraints; supporting complex, multi-stakeholder initiatives involving technical and non-technical partners; utility systems, district energy concepts, financial and operational considerations that influence long-term scalability; and local, state and federal regulations affecting energy.

Ability to:; work collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders; translate technical and regulatory concepts into clear written documentation; analyze information, identify risks and dependencies, and communicate findings clearly; organize ambiguous information into structured plans, roadmaps, or implementation documentation; manage timelines, track milestones, and maintain organized program records; exercise sound judgment and prioritize competing tasks; develop metrics and strategies to ensure metrics are met; communicate effectively in the English language at a level necessary for efficient job performance; and perform all essential functions as assigned by an authorized employee, supervisor and/or manager with or without reasonable accommodation.

Individuals must be capable of operating vehicles safely and have an acceptable driving record.

Preferred Knowledge, Experience, And Training

• Masters degree in engineering, energy systems, construction management, urban planning, public administration, business, or closely related field and five years progressively responsible experience.
• Familiarity with submetering concepts, utility billing practices, or rate structure coordination.
• Knowledge of Building HVAC systems and how developers and engineers evaluate and select heating and cooling solutions for new and existing buildings.
• Experience working with real estate developers or affordable housing projects.
• Experience preparing executive-level briefing materials or technical summaries.
• EIT License
• Project management certification
• Experience working with grant-funded programs, public sector partnerships, or community-based initiatives.

The physical effort characteristics and working environment described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Physical Efforts
While performing the duties of this job the employee is always lifting/carrying up to 10 pounds, occasionally lifting/carrying up to 20 pounds and rarely lifting/carrying up to 35 pounds. Also, the employee is always pushing/pulling up to 10 pounds, occasionally pushing/pulling up to 35 pounds and rarely pushing/pulling up to 75 pounds. The noise level is frequently moderate and occasionally very loud.

Working Environment
The work environment will include inside conditions, outdoor weather conditions, extreme temperatures, in wet and humid conditions, areas of dust, odors, mist and gases or other airborne matter. Employees are exposed to mechanical and electrical hazards and confined spaces. Employees will also drive a vehicle as part of this position.Occasional work site or gravel road
This position works: Occasional on call work required. Some weekend, after hours work as needed.