Programme Officer-Technology and Infrastructure for Grid Integration, P-3

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:                            Programme Officer - Technology and Infrastructure for Grid Integration, P-3

Indicative Annual Salary: (a) Annual Net Salary: USD 64,121.00 to USD 73,463.00[1]

                                           (b) Post Adjustment: USD 28,085.00 to USD 32,176.79 [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 Programme Officer-Technology and Infrastructure for Grid Integration, will:

• Lead technical analysis of modern energy grid development and operation, focusing on LDCs and SIDS, to optimize integration of variable renewable energy resources while maintaining grid reliability, performance, and alignment with national energy strategies and NDCs.
• Provide expert guidance on the design and implementation of renewable energy projects in select countries, with emphasis on grid modernization and technical assistance activities aligned with national energy strategies and NDCs.
• Collaborate with IRENA member countries and electric utilities to assess and enhance power system resilience and energy security through technical consultations, workshops, and action plan development, incorporating NDC and climate resilience objectives.
• Convene and facilitate technical discussions with IRENA members, energy and climate stakeholders, and utilities on the transition to high-renewable energy systems, emphasizing the role of NDCs.
• Lead the collection and analysis of energy supply and demand data in SIDS and LDCs to inform decision-making and support their transition to renewable energy, ensuring alignment with NDC targets.
• Perform administrative tasks related to team coordination, publications, procurement, and work program/budget reporting.
• Supervise junior staff as required. 
• Perform any other duties as may be assigned by the Team Lead.

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.

Planning and Organizing: Develops clear goals that are consistent with agreed strategies; identifies priority activities and assignments; adjusts priorities as required; allocates appropriate amount of time and resources for completing work; foresees risks and allows for contingencies when planning; monitors and adjusts plans and actions as necessary; uses time efficiently.

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:

• At least 5 years of relevant professional experience in the energy sector, with demonstrated experience in power systems, grid integration, and renewable energy technologies.
• Proven ability to provide technical advice and support to governments, utilities, or international organizations on renewable energy projects and policies.
• Demonstrated experience in conducting energy systems analysis, grid assessments, or feasibility studies for renewable energy integration.
• Experience in working with developing countries, small island developing states (SIDS), or least developed countries (LDCs) on energy and climate issues is desirable.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to assess complex technical information and translate it into actionable recommendations.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to build consensus among diverse stakeholders and effectively communicate technical information to non-technical audiences.
• Proficiency in relevant software and tools for power system modelling, data analysis, and project management.
• Coaching or mentoring experience for junior staff would be 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.