Vacancy Announcement
Secretariat of International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA)
IRENA Innovation and Technology Centre (IITC)


Publication Date: 23 August 2024
Deadline for Application: 22 September 2024
Title and Grade: Associate Programme Officer-Technology and Infrastructure for Grid Resilience, P-1
Indicative Annual Salary: (a) Annual Net Salary: USD 39,401.00 to USD 46,493.00 [1]
(b) Post Adjustment: USD 17,257.64 to USD 20,363.93 [2]
Duration of Appointment: One year, with possible extension
Duty Station: Bonn, Germany
Entry on Duty: As soon as possible


Introduction
The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) is an inter-governmental organisation mandated with the widespread and increased adoption and sustainable use of all forms of renewable energy. At present, IRENA has 169 Members (168 States and the European Union) that acceded to its Statute, and 15 additional States in the process of accession. IRENA supports countries in their transition to a sustainable energy future and serves as the principal platform for international cooperation, a centre of excellence, and a repository of policy, technology, resource, and financial knowledge on renewable energy. The Agency implements its mandate with the view of sustainable development, increased energy security, and low-carbon economic growth and prosperity.
The IRENA Innovation and Technology Centre (IITC) is responsible for the provision of the means to accelerate renewable energy technology uptake, considering national conditions of resource endowment, as well as social and economic frameworks. In accordance with the IRENA Statute, activities in this field include: analysis of renewable energy technology policies; promotion of innovation; dissemination of information and increased awareness; technology overview and assessment of success-failure factors; improved pertinent knowledge and technology transfer; joint research, development and demonstration; and provision of information about the development and deployment of national and international technical standards in relation to renewable energy.


Assignment
Under the supervision of the Team Lead, Technology and Infrastructure, the Associate Programme Officer, Technology and Infrastructure for Grid Resilience , will:

• Contribute to technical analyses of renewable energy grid infrastructure in Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS), ensuring alignment with national mitigation and adaptation strategies in the context of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
• Develop familiarity with the design and implementation of renewable energy technologies and policies, focusing on grid resilience and their contribution to national energy strategies and NDCs 3.0, particularly within the Sub-Saharan African context.
• Collaborate with energy stakeholders to enhance power system assessments, ensuring alignment with NDCs and climate goals, and contribute to action plans integrating these into national grid infrastructure strategies.
• Participate in and provide support during technical discussions with relevant stakeholders, including Member Countries, energy stakeholders, and utilities, on accelerating the transition to power grids characterized by a significant integration of renewable energy sources, with a particular emphasis on the role of NDCs.
• Assist in the collection and analysis of energy supply and demand data for LDCs and SIDS in Africa to inform decision-making processes and support the development of renewable energy transition strategies, ensuring consistency with NDC targets.
• Undertake administrative tasks related to coordination, publications, and knowledge management, as assigned.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Competencies


Professionalism : Shows pride in work and in achievements; demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines, and achieving results; shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations.
Accountability: Takes ownership of all responsibilities and honours commitments; delivers outputs for which one has responsibility within prescribed time, cost, and quality standards; operates in compliance with organisational regulations and rules; supports subordinates, provides oversight, and takes responsibility for delegated assignments; takes personal responsibility for his/her own shortcomings and those of the work unit, where applicable.
Teamwork : Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals; solicits input by genuinely valuing others’ ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others; places team agenda before personal agenda; supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position; shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings.
Qualifications


Education:

• Advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in a field connected to renewable energy (e.g., engineering). A candidate with a first-level university degree in combination with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree. A post-graduate degree or equivalent is desirable, as would a multidisciplinary background.

Experience/Skills :

• Relevant professional or academic experience in the energy sector, demonstrating a keen interest in renewable energy technologies and/or energy policy in Africa.
• Familiarity with power system planning, grid integration, and/or climate resilience concepts is a plus.
• Demonstrated understanding of renewable energy developments and challenges within the context of developing countries, particularly in Africa. This includes familiarity with NDCs, climate adaptation and resilience strategies, and the role of grid modernization in enhancing energy access and resilience.
• Strong research and analytical skills, with the ability to learn new concepts and tools quickly.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues and contribute to a positive team environment.
• Proficiency in relevant software and tools for power system modelling, data analysis, and project management.
• Previous work experience in SIDS and LDCs is a plus.

Languages :

• Excellent written and spoken English command is desirable. Other languages are a plus.

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Qualified candidates must apply for the abovementioned vacancy on-line, through IRENA’s recruitment platform, ORC by submitting a complete and comprehensive CV and a letter of interest, including details of three professional references who will be contacted if their application is shortlisted.
Applications from qualified women are highly encouraged.


Please note that only candidates under serious consideration will be contacted for an interview and will receive notice of the outcome of the selection process.