Analytical Research Associate – Energy Asset Risk

About the role

The Analyst Research Associate supports the Natural Resources Trust Authority by delivering data‑driven analysis to guide Louisiana’s long‑term strategy for managing legacy energy assets. This role focuses on risk assessment, financial and operational profiling for plugging and abandonment (P&A) activities, and developing transparent pathways for prioritizing state resources.

Key responsibilities

• Assess operational, environmental, and financial risk across Louisiana’s inventory of wells and associated infrastructure (25%).
• Develop analytical profiles for P&A activities, including cost modeling, operator performance trends, and potential liability exposure (20%).
• Build prioritization frameworks to help the Authority allocate state dollars for maximum long‑term value (10%).
• Support leadership with memos, dashboards, and decision tools that clarify trade‑offs, timelines, and funding strategies (10%).
• Conduct research on best practices, national approaches, and emerging technologies relevant to decommissioning and legacy‑asset management (10%).
• Coordinate with geologists, engineers, economists, and legal staff to ensure integrated, accurate analyses (10%).
• Assist in developing reporting structures and process improvements that strengthen financial oversight (10%).
• Perform other duties as assigned (5%).

Required profile

• Master’s degree in a related field or a bachelor’s degree with relevant experience.
• Strong analytical mindset with ability to synthesize complex data into actionable insights.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for preparing memos and dashboards.
• Ability to work collaboratively across multidisciplinary teams.

Required skills

• Risk assessment and financial modeling.
• Data analysis and dashboard creation.
• Knowledge of plugging and abandonment (P&A) processes.
• Collaboration with geologists, engineers, economists, and legal professionals.