This information is for reference only. These classifications are no longer valid and were replaced 7/1/2020.
- Utility Regulatory Auditor I
- What will I be doing?
- Do I qualify?
- Can I be successful?
- Benefits
- How do I apply?
This is entry-level professional regulatory auditing or financial analysis work for the Missouri Public Service Commission (PSC).
Receives training in the principles of public utility auditing.
Serves in a support role in the preparation of expert testimony regarding the rate of return in utility rate cases before the PSC; assists legal staff with the preparation of briefs and cross-examination of witnesses.
Assists in research and analysis of the financial aspects of public utility operations.
Analyzes and evaluates management controls, financial data, standard production rates, cost allocations, depreciation issues, fiscal procedures, or spending priorities to determine revenue requirements or promote efficient and economical utilization of resources.
Evaluates changes in accounting procedures and techniques requested by public utility companies and assists in the development of a staff position under the authority of the PSC.
Analyzes inquiries or proposals from staff, consumers, utilities, or others which influence the solvency or profitability of utilities; conceptualizes and defines problems from an accounting perspective; consults with internal management to determine type, scope, and purpose of audits.
Conducts on-site utility audits, interviews workers, and examines records to obtain data following an audit plan.
Prepares data requests for general discovery and detailed informational purposes.
Prepares materials which may be used as testimony in hearings involving topics such as rates, services, rate of return, production, construction, or research and development, and recommends changes affecting the rate structure.
Confers with company officials to discuss financial problems and regulatory matters.
Reviews and evaluates prudency of utility applications for mergers, acquisitions, establishment of new enterprises, or other actions.
Reviews utility budgetary controls for advertising, marketing, production, maintenance, and construction projects.
Evaluates changes in product design, materials, production, or services to determine effects on costs.
Analyzes financial information detailing previous rate structures, tariffs, distribution of costs, classification of accounts, assets, liabilities, and capital; reviews balance sheets, profit and loss statements, trends and costs, estimated and realized revenues, administrative commitments, obligations incurred, depreciation rates of capital assets, and other information; prepares summary of current company financial position and projection of future revenues and expenses.
Analyzes data obtained for evidence of deficiencies in controls, duplication of effort, excess expenditures, fraud, or lack of compliance with laws, regulations, or management policies or procedures.
Prepares charts, graphs, and other portions of reports which summarize and forecast utility business activity and financial position in areas of income, expenses, and earnings, based on past, present, and expected operations.
Participates in appeal hearings and settlements on contested cases.
Organizes and documents findings of studies; formulates recommendations for implementation of new systems, policies, procedures, or organizational changes; plans and prepares reports to management defining problems and possible solutions.
Prepares exhibits and testimony for hearings before the PSC on regulatory or rate adjustments.
Conducts portions of audits or studies pertaining to cost of service, revenue requirements, and/or cost allocation issues; designs new rates in accordance with findings of the Commission.
Assists management, engineers, legal staff, economists, and other auditors in the preparation of cases.
Provides technical assistance to utility organizations and provides advice on assumptions underlying budget forecasts.
Reviews periodicals and trade publications; analyzes production or service data to stay abreast of changes.
Exercises limited judgment and discretion in contacts with utilities and co-workers while applying established rules and policies to the audit process; close supervision and training is received from a higher-level auditor or other administrative staff; duties are performed as a member of a multi-disciplinary team.
Performs other related duties as assigned.
(The following requirements will determine merit system eligibility, experience and education ratings, and may be used to evaluate applicants for Missouri Uniform Classification and Pay System positions not requiring selection from merit registers. When practical and possible, the Division of Personnel will accept substitution of experience and education on a year-for-year basis.)
A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a minimum of 15 earned credit hours in one or a combination of the following: Accounting, Finance, Economics, Business or Public Administration, or a closely related field; and,
24 or more earned credit hours of additional coursework in Accounting or Finance.
(Professional or technical experience in accounting, finance, economics, or the utility industry which provides knowledge of utility management and analysis may substitute on a year-for-year basis for deficiencies in the required college education.)
Please note that documentation that supports your eligibility (i.e. transcripts, employment records, etc.) may be required at any time during the application and hiring process. If you do not possess the minimum qualifications, please consider one of many other employment opportunities with the State of Missouri.
Do you possess the key skills which are considered essential for successful employment in this classification?
Introductory knowledge of accounting and auditing practices and procedures.
Introductory knowledge of public utility operations and regulations.
Introductory knowledge of word processing, spreadsheets, and database software packages associated with personal computers and accounting practices.
Ability to generate data requests and analyze information according to accounting standards.
Ability to communicate effectively and prepare clear and concise reports.
Ability to generate and provide testimony associated with Commission hearings.
Ability to utilize interviewing techniques and solicit pertinent information at various organizational levels.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, utility industry personnel, and others involved in the audit process.
Ability to travel as required for agency business.
The following link will provide you with general information about State of Missouri employee benefits.
View benefits