Programme Officer – Renewable Energy Costs and Outlook, P4

Vacancy Announcement

Secretariat of International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA)

IRENA Innovation and Technology Centre (IITC)

Publication Date:                  07 March 2024

Deadline for Application:     06 April 2024

Title and Grade:  Programme Officer – Renewable Energy Costs and Outlook, P4

Indicative Annual Salary:     (a) Annual Net Salary: USD 77,326.00[1] to USD 87,422.00

                                                (b)  Post Adjustment:  USD 31,780.99[2]  to USD 35,930.44

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. 

IRENA aims to facilitate transformative improvement towards a resilient, sustainable, and low-emission energy transition in support of the Paris Agreement objectives.

Assignment

Under the supervision of the Head, Renewable Energy Costs and Outlook of the IRENA Innovation and Technology Center (IITC), the Programme Officer of Renewable Energy Costs and Performance will:

• Oversee the management and expansion of the IRENA Renewable Costing Work and of the Costing Database together with the head of  the Costing team.
• Develop and manage renewable energy cost data collection projects and cost trend analysis projects on selected topics, including the development of the project, its terms of reference, the planning, implementation, and monitoring of progress and the quality control of deliverables. This process includes:
  • Independently researching primary and secondary data, analysing the collected data, identify key uncertainties and/or new drivers, translating the data and analysis into compelling messages/questions for policy makers, draft reports/conclusions, manage the report production process, manage the peer review and external stakeholder engagement required.
• Manage and supervise teams of professionals and consultants, as required, delivering analytical work on renewable energy costs and performance, as well as fuels and technologies that are crucial to the energy transition (e.g., electrolysers, hydrogen, ammonia, batteries, heat pumps, solar thermal, etc.).
• Engage with IRENA Members, energy sector, climate businesses, researcher industry associations and other stakeholders to identify and develop data collection and cost analysis collaboration opportunities, promote IRENA analysis and support IRENA’s analysis of renewable energy costs.
• Provide analytical support to the unit Head as required.
• Coordinate activities related to budget funding (programme/project preparation and submissions, progress reports, , etc.) and prepares related documents/reports (pledging, work programme, programme budget, etc.).
• Perform administrative tasks related to team management, publications, procurement, and work programme and budget reporting, among other aspects.
• Perform other duties as required.
• Conceive and organise expert meetings for data and analysis discussion, peer review or promotion; maintain and develop new links with partner organisations.
• Represent IRENA in international fora, meetings and conferences as required.

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.

Communication: Speaks and writes clearly and effectively; listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and responds appropriately; asks questions to clarify, and exhibits interest in having two-way communication; tailor language, tone, style and format to match audience; demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed.

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: A first-level university degree in economics, finance, engineering, renewable energy or a related field connected to renewable energy. A post-graduate degree at the Master's level or equivalent is desirable, as would a multidisciplinary background.

Experience/Skills: 

• At least 7 years of professional experience in the energy sector is required. 
• Extensive experience in the collection of cost and performance data or economic analysis of the energy sector is required.
• Experience leading small, high performing teams, is required.
• Demonstrated strong interpersonal and collaborative skills/experience, is required
• Strong research, quantitative and analytical skills. Strong data visualisation and communication skills. is required..
• Experience in collecting and analysing data needed for the energy transition in areas other than cost/economics is desirable.
• Experience working in an international context, either in the public or private sector, is desirable.

Languages: Excellent written and spoken English command is required. Other languages, especially French and/or Spanish would be desirable.

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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.